Systems
Making sure you know everything there is to know about the electrical, heating and cooling systems in your home.
The Most Essential Products for New Homeowners
From cleaning supplies to tools, here's a list of everything you'll need for your new home.
What to Do Within the First Year After Moving Into Your New Home
When you move into your new home, there are a number of cleaning tasks, basic projects and upgrades to consider....
Install New Hard-Wired or Battery-Powered Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms wear out. Replace them before they fail.
10 Incredible New Light Fixtures for 2018
A new light fixture can change the look of a room, whether you're swapping out a chandelier or a classic...
12 Best Home Improvement Projects Under $100
A little can go a long way when it comes to home improvements. For just $100 you can make some...
How to Install Low-Profile LED Lights in Your Kitchen
Transform your kitchen into a place you’ll love to be with this innovative lighting project.
Severe Weather Guide: Emergency Power Generators
It just takes one downed power pole to interrupt the fragile chain of electricity connecting your house to the power...
10 Electrical Wire Colors and What They Actually Mean
Need to do some electrical work, but don't know what those wire colors mean? Here's what you need to know...
How to Hang a Ceiling Light Fixture
Nothing spoils a dinner party like a chandelier in the pasta or a sudden blackout. Here's how to hang lights...
Home Wiring Demystified: Electrical Cable Basics You Need to Know
Before you take on your next home wiring project, arm yourself with basic information about the electrical cable and wiring...
13 Things Your Electrician Wants You to Know
Almost every home uses electric service to one degree or another. And sooner or later, something is going to go...
Which is the Correct (and Incorrect) Way to Install an Electrical Outlet?
One of the first things people get confused about when trying to install an electrical outlet is which way is...
Vintage Family Handyman Feature from 1987: Landline Phone Installation
The first issue of Family Handyman was published in 1951, so this year marks our 70th anniversary. To celebrate we're...
19 Handy Hints for DIY Electrical Work
Get to know these tricks before you tackle electrical projects at home.
9 Things You Should Never Do With Power Strips
10 Things You Should Never Do With Power Strips
How to Put Lights On a Christmas Tree
Believe it or not, there's a right way and a wrong way to string Christmas lights.
10 Things You Should Know About LED Christmas Lights
You're probably thinking about what to give those on your holiday gift lists. But have you thought about upgrading your...
13 Holiday Light Dangers You Need to Know
Christmas lights can present a hazard inside and outside the house if precautions are taken. Make sure you know these...
5 Electrical Projects DIYers Should Not Take On
We know our readers love to DIY, but when it comes to electrical work there are some projects better left...
How to Use Cheap Electrical Testers
Three testers make electrical work safer and easier — and for less than $20, you can own them all.
26 Things That Changed DIY Forever
Innovations that improved home improvement.
Space Heater Safety Tips
Space heaters can boost home warmth, but they can cause fires if you aren't careful. Here are 10 space heater...
Installing a Single-Pole Smart Light Switch
Make your regular light switch smart in five easy steps!
3 Best Ways to Protect Your Devices During Severe Weather
Don't let a nearby lightning strike destroy all of the high-tech gear in your home.
An Expert’s Guide to Buying and Installing LED Lights
LED lighting can add a cool, modern aesthetic to any entertainment space. Here's everything you need to know to buy...
6 Best RV Solar Panels and Kits
Silent and fume-free electric power for your RV is what solar panel kits deliver. Check out these six top models...
7 Savvy Answers to Common Questions About Smart Light Switches
This overview will help you decide which smart light switches will work best with your smart home setup.
6 Electrical Outlets That Maximize Safety and Convenience
These six specialized electrical outlets can improve your home life.
Should You Do Your Own Electrical Work?
Handy homeowners do electrical work all the time. With the right tools and knowledge, you can increase your skills safely...
How to Safely Dispose of Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Safely dispose of CFL bulbs through retail stores and collection sites and safely clean up any broken bulbs.