Electrical

Electrical overloads can be dangerous. In this article, we’ll explain how electrical circuits work, how to figure out which outlets are on which…

Which electrical tape is best? A master electrician tells you why he chooses Scotch 33+ above all the others.

An electric heater can be a good option for warming up a cold room. We'll show strategies for adding an in-wall electric heater wherever you…

Electricity prices are rising and utility bills are getting ugly. Fight back with these 10 tips, and reduce your electrical bill by up to 40…

Wiring problems and mistakes are all too common, and if left uncorrected have the potential to cause short circuits, shocks and even fires.…

Replace any switch in the house with an X10 switch and you can remotely control electric devices in a detached garage—or anywhere else in…

Static electricity can be a real problem in winter, especially in houses with carpets and radiator heat. There are several simple ways to reduce…

If you're adding wires or a bigger device to an electrical box, you may need additional capacity. There are two ways to enlarge an existing box…

We’ll show you how to use inexpensive electrical testers to make electrical work safer and easier. We cover three testers—a…

You can use these add-on switch controls to turn on and off the lights and appliances in your house. This article gives you the run down on…

We'll show you how to use this monster of a tool for troubleshooting almost any type of electrical wiring or appliance. Once you understand…

Improve the appearance of your recessed lights by simply changing the trim. The task is simple and takes only minutes—no tools needed!

Supplement wireless computer systems with wired connections where ever possible to boost speed and performance. Running the wires is usually…

Light up your shop with inexpensive, 8-ft.long fluorescent light fixtures. With electronic ballasts and bulbs with a color rendering index of…

Better kitchen lighting doesn't have to cost a fortune. These 5 upgrades—track lighting, undercabinet lighting, recessed lighting,…

Before you buy your next light bulb, know when and where halogens are worth the extra money over ordinary incandescent bulbs.

Instead of using bulky surge protector strips, you can now install a point-of-use surge protection receptacle to protect appliances and…

We show you how to adjust and balance your ceiling fan blades to stop the wobble and rattle. Get your fan running smoothly again in 15 minutes.

Most of the time you can fix your TV remote yourself with a simple repair kit and avoid the high cost of a replacement.

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…

Improve home security and your own comfort level by installing mini cameras at your doorways and other areas. Then monitor who's there from the…

Not sure about your smoke alarm battery? Wondering about the mystery batteries in your kitchen drawer? Check them with a multitester to find out…

Save energy and money by reducing “stand by” losses through electrical appliances and devices. We show you what wastes electricity…

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

Old ceiling fans may have inconvenient pull chains, make noise or need repairs. One easy fix is to install a ceiling fan remote control. You may…

Buy smart light switches for convenience, safety and to save money. Some light up for easy switching at night, some switch on and off …

Add undercabinet lighting to existing kitchen cabinets. This unique method of wiring undercabinet lights eliminates disruptive wall tear-out…

Change a drab room into a dazzling one with a new overhead light fixture. Here's how to mount that new fixture correctly and safely using…

A ceiling fan improves cooling in summer and heating in winter. The result: You feel more comfortable while you save on utility bills. And…

Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) come in a variety of sizes and colors. Learn about different types, where and where not to use them, and how…

Use airtight recessed lights in a cathedral ceiling to prevent heat loss, moisture problems and roof rot. The fixtures are inexpensive.

Power inverters allow you to run low power AC electrical devices like computers, video cams and even TVs in your car. We tell you your options…

Replace smoke alarms before they fail. It takes only about 10 minutes to replace a hard-wired type safely.

Improve your cell phone reception with an easy to install antenna and amplifier, which boost the signal. You only have to run coaxial cables.

CFLs are replacing incandescent bulbs almost everywhere, but before you put one in the garage door opener, be aware there's more to it than just…

Photovoltaic solar panels are getting cheaper and more efficient, but they’re still not for everyone. These questions will help you…

Learn the new rules for light bulbs being sold in 2012 and how to choose the best bulbs for your home - halogens, fluorescents and LEDs. We'll…