Electrical Skills

Not all dimmer switches are the same, and if you buy one that's not rated for the total wattage of the lights it controls, you could have…

Replace the ballast when your fluorescent light flickers or makes an annoying hum. The repair will only take about 10 minutes.

Bad TV reception with cable service may be due to something as simple as a corroded coax cable connection. Instead of waiting for the cable guy…

Adding another light using power from an existing switch is possible if the switch box contains a neutral line. Here's what to look for and how…

Most dryer problems can be fixed in an hour with a few basic tools and a continuity tester or multimeter—and you can do the work yourself…

In about 30 minutes you can repair the electrical wiring in almost any lamp—and make it safe as well.

With coaxial cable, small mistakes lead to big problems: poor picture quality or slow Web cruising. Before you run coax cable to your TV or…

Older photocells in outdoor lights often don’t work with compact fluorescent lights, but new technology is available that addresses the problem.…

Generate power for corded tools anywhere you go without the cost and hassle of a gas-powered generator by wiring a power inverter to your truck…

You can install communication lines that will integrate, connect and route your cable and phone. The system shown here, which can be installed…

Wire switches and outlets correctly and safely by following the techniques recommended by our two Master Electricians. They show how to avoid…

With surface wiring you can add outlets, switches and lights wherever you want easily and quickly, without tearing open a wall. When you paint…

Make turning lamps on and off easier by installing an in line cord switch. We'll show you how to add the switch so you don't have to…

Low voltage lighting is simple and safe to install on decks, patios or around the garden, even for beginners. Learn about lighting options and…

Compact fluorescent bulbs can work well with dimmers—if they're the right type of dimmer. Replace older, standard dimmer switches with CFL…

Perform a quick diagnostic test for corrosion in your water pump, radiator or heater core with a digital multimeter. A simple test of the…

Upgrade the original factory sound system in your car by installing an MP3 player. With the removal instructions you can usually swap out the…

When two-cycle leaf-blowers, string trimmers, chain saws or other small engines won't start, first see if one of these common problems is the…