Does a Dehumidifier Cool a Room?
It's hot outside! Will a dehumidifier cool you down? An expert gives us the deets on dehumidifiers.
What Does the Ban on Incandescent Light Bulbs Mean for You?
Due to new government rules that went into effect on Aug. 1, retailers can no longer sell incandescent bulbs. You...
Drawing Your Own Electrical Plans
Electrical plans are a roadmap to project success. And, yes — you can draw your own! Here's what you need...
Romex Wiring 101: Everything You Need to Know About Romex Wire
Wondering where to use Romex cable in your home? How about where you can't? We've got the details below.
What To Know About Electrical Transformer Boxes In Your Yard
Those green metal boxes hiding in plain sight are a lot more important (and interesting!) than you might think.
How an Electrical System Works
If your home is grid-connected, your electric power comes from far away. Here's how it gets from the generator to...
15 Amp vs. 20 Amp Outlets: What’s the Difference?
Outlets and receptacles. What's the difference? Which one goes where? Our expert is here to clear up the confusion.
What Can You Do About a Noisy Air Conditioner?
You don't have to choose between running the AC and being able to hear yourself think.
13 Home Automation Ideas
Home automation makes life easier and safer. From pre-heating the oven to monitoring for security threats, you get convenience and...
Expert-Approved Tips for Wiring a Subpanel
When you run out of space in your service panel, a subpanel is the best solution. Use these tips from...
What’s the Difference Between a Surge Protector and a Power Strip?
Surge protectors and power strips look alike, but they have different functions. Here's how to tell what's what.
Where Is a Tamper Resistant Receptacle Outlet Required?
Here's how you can easily protect small children, and everyone else, from electrical shocks, burns or electrocution.
Best Whole House Fans for Energy-Efficient Cooling
Here’s how to choose the best whole house fan. Not only can these helpful ventilation systems...
Homeowner’s Guide to an AC Fuse Box
Fuse boxes were the precursors to modern circuit breaker panels and are largely obsolete. But some large appliances are still...
Here’s How to Convert Your Regular Mattress Into a Smart Bed
How much do you want to invest in a good night’s sleep?
Testing a Circuit Breaker Panel for 240-Volt Electrical Service
Before you add a 240-volt appliance, you need to make sure you've got what it takes.
What To Know About Smart Home Wiring
Smart home wiring keeps your smart devices in touch with your home's data center, and it feeds data-hungry appliances the...
Homeowner’s Guide to Smart Electrical Panels
A fully electrified home needs an intelligent control center to manage energy usage and maximize savings. A smart panel can...
What to Know About Electrical Conduit Wiring
There may be times when you need to install some electrical conduit as part of your project. The following tips...
What Is a Disconnect Switch (aka Safety Switch) and Why They Are Important
It's a good bet your home's electrical system has one or more disconnect switches. Here's what they are, what they...
What Is Overcurrent Protection?
Overcurrent protection is one of the most important concepts in electrical safety. This is what you need to know.
Homeowner’s Guide to Sump Pump Battery Backups
A sump pump installation should include a backup system for breakdowns and power outages. Learn the pros and cons of...
How To Put Out an Electrical Fire
Learn how to extinguish an electrical fire — but know your limits and stay safe.
How To Wire a Doorbell Transformer
Yes, you can wire your doorbell yourself! Let us take the mystery out of wiring a doorbell transformer with this...
Where Is a GFCI Protected Outlet Required?
Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection is an affordable way of safeguarding your loved ones from lethal electrical shock hazards.
Beat the Heat With This Beginner’s Guide to Outdoor AC Unit Wiring at Home
Want to save on electrician's fees for outdoor AC unit wiring? Then you must wire your new air conditioner or...
Septic Tank vs. Holding Tank: What to Know About Each
A rural home or cabin isn't connected to a municipal wastewater system, so it needs a septic or holding tank....
6 Best Window Air Conditioners to Cool Every Room
Find the coolest deals on the best window air conditioners before it gets too hot. We have picks for every...
8 Ideas for Covering an Electrical Panel
Don't let an ugly gray metal electrical panel ruin your decor! Check out these creative solutions for covering one in...