Electrical System

Everything you need to know about the electrical power systems that run your home.

View More in:

Add Filter

Tout icon

What You Need to Know About Romex Wiring

Wondering where to use Romex cable in your home? How about where you can't? We've got the details below.

Tout icon

How to Ground an Ungrounded Outlet

Improve electrical safety in your home by grounding or replacing old two-prong ungrounded outlets.


What To Know About Burying Underground Electrical Cable

Running electric power to a garage or garden pond? Learn about code requirements, trench depth options, conduit material and types...


How To Install a Porch Light Fixture

Installing hanging porch lights can dramatically improve your outdoor space's ambiance. Here is the process for getting it done.


15 Electrical Mistakes Homeowners Make

Here's what to look for, and how to fix what you find.

Tout icon

5 Common Building Code Violations

Prevent accidents and make your home safer by learning about and fixing these code violations. Many are DIY-able.


4 Genius Ways to Hide Wiring

Four simple ways to hide low-voltage wiring.

Wiring a Switch and Outlet the Safe and Easy Way

Play it smart and stay safe when wiring receptacles and switches.


6 Ways to Fix a Flickering Light Bulb

Have a broken light but don't know why it doesn't work? Get to the bottom of it! Follow these tips...


Tout icon

GFCI vs. AFCI Outlets: What’s the Difference?

Confused about these important safety devices? An electrician explains the difference.


Tout icon

How Much Does a Whole House Surge Protector Cost?

Whole house surge protector cost is lower than $1,000. It's a small price to prevent a power surge from destroying...

9 Home Theater Lighting Ideas

Home theater lighting illuminates the space without distracting from the screen. Find out what combination of fixtures will work best...


What To Know About Electrical Box Extenders

These handy little rings make your renovation project so much easier.


How to Replace a Light Fixture

Here is how to replace a ceiling light fixture in an hour or two.


Incandescent vs. LED Lighting: What’s the Difference?

Love the classic incandescent? Embracing the LED? Test your knowledge of these popular lighting types.


How Much Does It Cost to Electrify Your Home Completely?

Is the price tag worth the hassle? Here's what to know if you're thinking about electrifying your home with solar,...

Tout icon

12 Facts About LED Christmas Lights You Should Know

Have you thought about upgrading your home's holiday light display? Here are some tips and tricks you should know about...


What Are CFL Bulbs? Everything to Know

How much do you know about compact fluorescent lighting? Our experts are here to help.


10 Most Common Electrical Mistakes DIYers Make

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


How To Choose the Right Wire Nuts for Electrical Connections

How important are wire nuts? Extremely! Make sure you're choosing the correct wire nuts every time you join together two...


Tout icon

We Tried Kasa Smart Switches, and They Seriously Upgraded Our Home Lighting

Looking to add smart home functionality without breaking the bank? The Kasa smart switch is a brilliant solution.


Tout icon

17 Handy Hints for DIY Electrical Work

Get to know these tricks before you tackle electrical projects at home.


9 Kitchen Island Lighting Ideas That Are Functional and Stylish

Check out these designer-approved light fixture ideas to brighten up your kitchen island.


Tout icon

How to Hide TV Wires

Easily hide TV wires without cutting into your drywall.


How to Install Surface-Mounted Wiring and Conduit

Adding a new light or receptacle to your garage or basement is easier than you think.

Magazine Cover

Subscribe & SAVE

1 Year Subscription for only $10!

Tout icon

Fluorescent Lights: What Are They and How Do They Work?

How much do you know about these workhorses of the lighting industry?


Tout icon

How Electrical Code Requirements for Kitchen Islands Have Changed

The 2023 National Electrical Code brought changes to rules regarding electrical receptacle outlets on kitchen islands. Learn about them from...


Tout icon

Wire Gauge Sizes: What You Need To Know

Wire gauge is a measure of wire thickness. Don't let the fact that the gauge number goes up as thickness...


Tout icon

How To Use Task Lighting Effectively

Task lighting brightens your work and reduces eye strain. Here's how DIYers can make best use of it in the...


Tout icon

Is Solid-State Electricity the Future of Home Electricity?

One of the largest infrastructures on the planet might be getting an overhaul. Here's how solid-state electricity could impact your...


Do You Need a Home Battery Backup System?

If the power goes out or your electric bill rises, a backup battery system be a lifesaver. Here's how to...