Electrical

Electricity is not something to mess with unprepared. Stay safe by getting educated on all things electrical.

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How To Fix Christmas Lights

Squeeze another season out of your strings of lights!

Understanding Electrical Wire Color Codes

Ready to cross that electrical project off your to-do list? Understand wiring color codes so you can finish the job...


Breaker Box Safety: How to Connect a New Circuit

Add a new circuit to your home's wiring


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...


Home Wiring: Electrical Wiring and 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...

8 Best Circuit Breaker Finders

Organizing your electrical panel doesn't have to be intimidating. Find and label unknown circuits safely with these best circuit breaker...


The Lixada Blocklight Is a Small Flashlight with Lots of Power

Let there be light with you everywhere you go with these super-compact and affordable Family Handyman approved flashlights.


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Multimeter Symbol Guide

When you need a multimeter for testing electrical equipment around the home, it's vital to know what all those symbols...


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Family Handyman Approved: Wago Lever Nuts

Wary of cheap, twist-on wire nuts? Then try these from Wago.


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18 Common Electrical Terms You Should Know

Electricians know these electrical terms and you should too, especially if you plan to save money by doing basic electrical...

We Tried It: Kasa Smart Light Switches

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


Troubleshooting: How to Fix a Light

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


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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....


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How to Fish Wire Through A Wall

“Fishing” wire is easier with these tips and tools.


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.

How to Install a New Hard-Wired Smoke Alarm

Smoke alarms wear out. Replace them before they fail.


Ways Manufacturers Make It Tough for DIY Repairs

It's an old lament that they just don't build things they way they used to, and there's some truth to...


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...


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10 Women Inventors Who Changed Home Life Forever

From the circular saw to Scotchgard, inventions by women revolutionized our homes. In honor of Women's History Month, we spotlight...


10 Bad DIY Habits You Need to Stop Doing Immediately

These bad DIY habits might be costing you more than just time and money.


Electrical Questions Answered By An Electrical Inspector

Everything you wanted to know about breaker panels and more. A veteran electrical inspector answers your questions.


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9 Things Electricians ALWAYS Do In Their Own Homes

Before you attempt any DIY electrical work, learn the habits and best practices that are second nature to professional electricians.


Electrical Code Requirements for Islands and Peninsulas 

If the title of this topic has you daydreaming about a tropical island or peninsula somewhere in the Caribbean Sea,...

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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...


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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...


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13 Things Your Electrician Wants You to Know

Whether you're looking to add a light fixture or run rough electric for an addition, here are a few key...


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What is the Correct Way to Install an Electrical Outlet?

You may see electrical outlets with the ground facing up or down. Do you know which is right?


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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...