Electrical System

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

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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.

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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.


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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...


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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.


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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...

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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...


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A Guide for Soldering Electronics

Got an appliance that's stopped working, or want to build something electronic? Learning how to solder electronics is an essential...


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What Is Overcurrent Protection?

Overcurrent protection is one of the most important concepts in electrical safety. This is what you need to know.


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How To Put Out an Electrical Fire

Learn how to extinguish an electrical fire — but know your limits and stay safe.


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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.


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...

A Guide to Electrical Load Calculation

If you're planning to increase your electrical load by adding a new major appliance, make sure your panel can handle...


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How to Use an Electrical Box Extender

Don't put up with an unsafe, unsightly electrical box installation. You can easily fix the problem by installing an electrical...


The 6 Best Floor Lamps on Amazon to Brighten Your Home Right Now

Add some elevated shine to each room in the house with these Amazon floor lamps.


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How To Conduct a Multimeter Continuity Test

Need to check whether a wall switch is bad, a fuse has blown or an extension cord is damaged? Here's...


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8 Tips for Wiring LED Lights

Wiring LEDs on low-voltage circuits is safe and DIY-friendly. Here are some tips to get you started with your interior...


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6 Types of Electrical Plugs and Their Uses

Confused by all the plugs that bring electricity to your home's appliances? You're not alone. We explain what they are...


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How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Electrical Panel?

Discover the factors that impact the cost, from amperage to labor. And learn how an upgrade can increase home efficiency.


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What To Know About Portable Solar Power Systems

Want to bring your coffeemaker camping or run your jigsaw off-grid? You can do that with a portable solar power...


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What Parts of Your Home Use the Most Electricity?

Do you often wonder where in the world all of that electricity goes when you open your monthly energy bill?...

5 Candle Warmer Lamps to Illuminate Every Desk and Side Table

These candle warmer lamps are an excellent way to add light and scent to your home or office.


This Flameless Backyard Torch Doubles as a Bluetooth Speaker with Lights

Thanks to its clever design, no one will suspect that this torch is playing music. Everyone at the...


Possini Wall Light: Mid-Century Modern Outdoor Lighting (We Tried It!)

You know it’s time to ditch your crusty, spider-web infested outdoor wall light, right?


Add Wire-Free Wall Sconces to Any Room with This Hack

Want to spruce up your home's lighting quickly and easily? Learn how to install wire-free wall sconces in just a...


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How To Hang Outdoor String Lights

Softy illuminated warm summer nights on the patio are just a few steps away. Here's how to hang string lights...


This Clever Wall Outlet Shelf Makes a Convenient Home for Charging Gadgets

Clear your countertop of clutter with this wall outlet shelf, aka the best Amazon find you'll see today.