Systems

Making sure you know everything there is to know about the electrical, heating and cooling systems in your home.

View More in:

Add Filter

    Tout icon

    How to Solder Wires

    Here's is how to solder wires to achieve a durable and long-lasting connection.


    Tout icon

    Homeowner’s Guide to Electrical Grounding and How It Works

    You know electrical grounding is important. What does it actually do?


    Tout icon

    How To Test GFCI Outlets

    GFCIs save lives. Learn how to test your GFCIs two ways, with these instructions.


    Tout icon

    7 Types of Water Shutoff Valves

    A plumbing system needs a main shutoff valve as well as valves for branch lines and fixtures. Here's a rundown...


    Tout icon

    How a Home Energy Audit Can Save You Money

    A home energy audit can help you identify where you are losing energy and what you can do to stop...


    These New Septic Tank Treatment Pods from Active Ensure Your System Runs in Tip-Top Shape

    Just drop a septic tank treatment pod in the toilet and flush for all the benefits!


    Tout icon

    How Do Septic Tanks Work?

    Just knowing the ins and outs of a septic system can save you a lot of money in the long...


    How to Use a Surge Protector for Electronic Devices

    Learn how to use surge protectors for any electronic device, whether it's a digital clock, a computer, a dishwasher or...

    Tout icon

    When Was Air Conditioning Invented?

    For many of us, air conditioning is essential to cool off in summer heat. But where did air conditioning come...


    Lasko Tower Fan: Best Smart Choice for Your Smart Home (We Tried It!)

    A new smart fan that can be controlled through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or an app? The Lasko fan tower...


    Tout icon

    Does a Dehumidifier Cool a Room?

    It's hot outside! Will a dehumidifier cool you down? An expert gives us the deets on dehumidifiers.


    Tout icon

    62,000 Amana / Daikin Air Conditioners Recalled Due to Fire Hazard

    Stay safe—as well as cool—this summer!


    Tout icon

    Drawing Your Own Electrical Plans

    Electrical plans are a roadmap to project success. And, yes — you can draw your own! Here's what you need...


    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

    What To Know About Electrical Transformer Boxes In Your Yard

    Those green metal boxes hiding in plain sight are a lot more important (and interesting!) than you might think.


    Tout icon

    What Is Electrical Shock and How Can I Prevent It?

    Electrical shock injures thousands of people every year. Before doing any of your own electrical work, take precautions and know...


    Tout icon

    How an Electrical System Works

    If your home is grid-connected, your electric power comes from far away. Here's how it gets from the generator to...

    Tout icon

    15 Amp vs. 20 Amp Outlets: What’s the Difference?

    Outlets and receptacles. What's the difference? Which one goes where? Our expert is here to clear up the confusion.


    Tout icon

    What Can You Do to About a Noisy Air Conditioner?

    You don't have to choose between running the AC and being able to hear yourself think.


    10 Tips to Stay Safe in a Heatwave

    With extreme weather phenomena becoming more common, there's never been a better time to brush up on your safety skills!


    Tout icon

    Tips for Wiring a Subpanel

    When you run out of space in your service panel, a subpanel is the best solution. Use these tips from...


    Tout icon

    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.


    Tout icon

    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.

    How to Choose the Best Whole House Fan for Your Home

    What is a whole house fan? Not only can these helpful ventilation systems help keep you cool, but they also...


    Tout icon

    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...


    Tout icon

    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.


    Tout icon

    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...


    Tout icon

    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...