Electrical: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Electrical Wire Sizes
Learn the appropriate wire size for the amperage of the circuit that you are using. The wire gauge is the size of the wire.
Learn the appropriate wire size for the amperage of the circuit that you are using. The wire gauge is the size of the wire.
Electrical Wire Color Coding
Find out what the electrical wire color coding is when working on electrical projects. Learn which wires are used as hot, neutral, and ground wires.
Find out what the electrical wire color coding is when working on electrical projects. Learn which wires are used as hot, neutral, and ground wires.
Air Conditioner Sizing
If you've ever wondered how to size air conditioners for your home, look at this article on air conditioner sizing.
If you've ever wondered how to size air conditioners for your home, look at this article on air conditioner sizing.
Dryer Cords and Plugs
Installing a 4-prong electric dryer cord when replacing a 3-prong electric dryer cord is easy when you follow thee directions.
Installing a 4-prong electric dryer cord when replacing a 3-prong electric dryer cord is easy when you follow thee directions.
Types of Electrical Wiring
A list of common types of electrical wiring used to feed a home.
A list of common types of electrical wiring used to feed a home.
Wire and Install an Outlet
Learn all the steps involved in installing an outlet. These steps include stripping the wire, making proper connections and which wire goes where. Outlet installation is made easy and safe in this tutorial.
Learn all the steps involved in installing an outlet. These steps include stripping the wire, making proper connections and which wire goes where. Outlet installation is made easy and safe in this tutorial.
Window Air Conditioner Size
If it's time for a new window air conditioner, but you don't know what size you need, this chart will be helpful.
If it's time for a new window air conditioner, but you don't know what size you need, this chart will be helpful.
Top 10 Solar Energy Uses
In the world of renewable and sustainable alternative power supplies, solar energy is free for the taking. These are my top ten solar energy uses in a home.
In the world of renewable and sustainable alternative power supplies, solar energy is free for the taking. These are my top ten solar energy uses in a home.
Breaker Panel Installation
Learn how to wire an electrical panel with these simple step-by-step instructions. Knowing where to make the connections in a breaker panel is explained in detail.
Learn how to wire an electrical panel with these simple step-by-step instructions. Knowing where to make the connections in a breaker panel is explained in detail.
Conduit Fill Capacity
Metal and PVC conduit both have a maximum number of allowable electrical wire fill. This article will tell you these amounts.
Metal and PVC conduit both have a maximum number of allowable electrical wire fill. This article will tell you these amounts.
Top Electrical Wiring Tips
Electrical wiring can be as simple as following these tips. This tutorial will make wiring a breeze, whether you're wiring an electrical service, the branch circuits, or the devices connected to them.
Electrical wiring can be as simple as following these tips. This tutorial will make wiring a breeze, whether you're wiring an electrical service, the branch circuits, or the devices connected to them.
Room-By-Room Electrical Codes
A room by room look at common electrical code requirements in the home.
A room by room look at common electrical code requirements in the home.
Top 16 Electrical Tools
Electrical work requires many different tools. Here's a look at the top sixteen electrical tools.
Electrical work requires many different tools. Here's a look at the top sixteen electrical tools.
What is Grounding and How Does it Work?
Grounding and electricity go hand in hand. In fact, to safely use electrical devices, equipment, appliances, and tools, make sure that your connection is grounded properly. Here's why grounding is important.
Grounding and electricity go hand in hand. In fact, to safely use electrical devices, equipment, appliances, and tools, make sure that your connection is grounded properly. Here's why grounding is important.
3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Receptacles
If you need to know how to wire a dryer outlet, or convert the wiring from a three-wire system to a four wire system, or just the opposite, here's a great source for information.
If you need to know how to wire a dryer outlet, or convert the wiring from a three-wire system to a four wire system, or just the opposite, here's a great source for information.
NEC Outdoor Wiring Tips
The National Electrical Code has some very specific rules and regulations about underground wiring methods and points of asttachment. This is a look at the highlights of the outdoor sections of the code.
The National Electrical Code has some very specific rules and regulations about underground wiring methods and points of asttachment. This is a look at the highlights of the outdoor sections of the code.
Load Requirements for Homes
Learn how to determine the electrical circuit load capacity for your home.
Learn how to determine the electrical circuit load capacity for your home.
How To Calculate Safe Electrical Load Capacities
In order to determine the safe capacity of a circuit, you'll need to consider the voltage, amperage and wattage of a circuit, then take that times 80% for the safe capacity.
In order to determine the safe capacity of a circuit, you'll need to consider the voltage, amperage and wattage of a circuit, then take that times 80% for the safe capacity.
Line or Load…A GFCI Connection Choice
When it comes to ground fault circuit interrupter outlets, commonly known as GFCI outlets, there is always a question as to how to connect the wires to them. In this article, I'll give you the information you need to connect them properly.
When it comes to ground fault circuit interrupter outlets, commonly known as GFCI outlets, there is always a question as to how to connect the wires to them. In this article, I'll give you the information you need to connect them properly.
Hardwired Smoke Detectors
Learn how to install hardwired smoke detectors with battery backup in your home. These detectors are wired so that if any detector goes off, they will all sound.
Learn how to install hardwired smoke detectors with battery backup in your home. These detectors are wired so that if any detector goes off, they will all sound.
How To Pigtail Wire Connection
Learn how to properly connect two or more wires by connecting a pigtail connection.
Learn how to properly connect two or more wires by connecting a pigtail connection.
Thermostat Terminal Lettering
Learn what the letters on the terminals of a thermostat mean and what connects to each.
Learn what the letters on the terminals of a thermostat mean and what connects to each.
Series and Parallel Circuits –
A look at the basics of series and parallel circuits. Find out what the likenesses and differences are.
A look at the basics of series and parallel circuits. Find out what the likenesses and differences are.
Line And Load Connections
Learn what line and load connections are and what connects to each.
Learn what line and load connections are and what connects to each.
Electrical Circuit Overloads
Learn what electrical circuit overloads are and how that can effect your home's electrical wiring.
Learn what electrical circuit overloads are and how that can effect your home's electrical wiring.
Making The Switch
Newer homes are now being equipped with 4-prong dryer cord plugs, but if you are moving into an older home, you may need to convert your dryer cord to a 3-prong configuration.
Newer homes are now being equipped with 4-prong dryer cord plugs, but if you are moving into an older home, you may need to convert your dryer cord to a 3-prong configuration.
Direct Burial Cable
Some cables are meant to be run indoors, while others are meant for weathered areas and underground like direct burial cable.
Some cables are meant to be run indoors, while others are meant for weathered areas and underground like direct burial cable.
Prevent Electrical Shock
This is a sensible look at preventing electrical shock. These tips will help keep you safe.
This is a sensible look at preventing electrical shock. These tips will help keep you safe.
Common Electrical Mistakes
This is a look at some very common electrical mistakes made by do-it-yourself homeowners. These need-to-know items will ensure proper electrical installations without problems.
This is a look at some very common electrical mistakes made by do-it-yourself homeowners. These need-to-know items will ensure proper electrical installations without problems.
Remove and Install a Breaker
Learn how to safely remove and install a circuit breaker in an electrical panel.
Learn how to safely remove and install a circuit breaker in an electrical panel.
How To Wire an Electric Meter
Learn how to make the electrical connections to an electric meter. Electric meters have two hot connections, and a center neutral/ground connection.
Learn how to make the electrical connections to an electric meter. Electric meters have two hot connections, and a center neutral/ground connection.
Wire Size And Cable Length
When considering the appropriate wire size for a circuit, don't forget to take the circuit length into consideration.
When considering the appropriate wire size for a circuit, don't forget to take the circuit length into consideration.
Light Bulbs Burning Out
Find out what can cause light bulbs to burn out early in your home.
Find out what can cause light bulbs to burn out early in your home.
Electric Water Heater Problems
Electric water heaters often encounter problems and these troubleshooting tips will help you diagnose the problems.
Electric water heaters often encounter problems and these troubleshooting tips will help you diagnose the problems.
Testing Continuity
Learn how to test continuity with a multi-tester.
Learn how to test continuity with a multi-tester.
Electrical Wiring Hub
If you are in the need to wire your home, want to know how to run the wiring or how to connect it to devices, this is a detailed list of tuorials for you.
If you are in the need to wire your home, want to know how to run the wiring or how to connect it to devices, this is a detailed list of tuorials for you.
Short Circuit vs. Ground Fault
When a fuse blows or a circuit breaker trips, was it a short circuit or a ground fault that caused it? Find out what the differenceis in this article.
When a fuse blows or a circuit breaker trips, was it a short circuit or a ground fault that caused it? Find out what the differenceis in this article.
Pools and Spas Codes
Learn proper electrical do's and don'ts in this code requirement tutorial. Electrical safety around pools and spas must be followed to ensure backyard fun.
Learn proper electrical do's and don'ts in this code requirement tutorial. Electrical safety around pools and spas must be followed to ensure backyard fun.
How to Bend Conduit
A tutorial that teaches the easy way to bend conduit with confidence.
A tutorial that teaches the easy way to bend conduit with confidence.
Light Fixture Problems
Light fixture problems often leave you in the dark. Find out what the problem may be in this insightful article.
Light fixture problems often leave you in the dark. Find out what the problem may be in this insightful article.
Top Electrical Connections
Learn about the top electrical connections in and around the home. Whether it's the service connections that feed the house, the branch circuits that feed the devices, or the devices themselves, this collection of electrical connections will have power flowing through your home safely.
Learn about the top electrical connections in and around the home. Whether it's the service connections that feed the house, the branch circuits that feed the devices, or the devices themselves, this collection of electrical connections will have power flowing through your home safely.
Electrical Wire Lettering
Ever wonder what the letters on electrical wire mean? Find out in this informative article.
Ever wonder what the letters on electrical wire mean? Find out in this informative article.
Electrical Wire Size Tips
Here are some great tips for determining the proper wire gauge, ampacity, and the maximum wattage allowed.
Here are some great tips for determining the proper wire gauge, ampacity, and the maximum wattage allowed.
Color Coding of Electric Wires and Terminal Screws and Their Function
Learn what color wire goes where on switch and outlets terminals and why.
Learn what color wire goes where on switch and outlets terminals and why.
How To Wire A Dryer Outlet
Follow these simple step-by-step instructions in order to wire a dryer outlet. They take you from stripping the wire to making the electrical connections.
Follow these simple step-by-step instructions in order to wire a dryer outlet. They take you from stripping the wire to making the electrical connections.
Warning Signs of Bad Switches
Learn some of the warning signs of defective switches so that you can identify them before they cause problems.
Learn some of the warning signs of defective switches so that you can identify them before they cause problems.
Anatomy of a Three-Way Switch
Three-way switch wiring is made easy with this diagram. With this labeled diagram, you'll be able to see where each of the wires connect to the switch terminals.
Three-way switch wiring is made easy with this diagram. With this labeled diagram, you'll be able to see where each of the wires connect to the switch terminals.
How To Install Ceiling Fans
Learn how to hang the ceiling fan, make the electrical connections and secure the housing.
Learn how to hang the ceiling fan, make the electrical connections and secure the housing.
How to Install Dishwashers
Learn how to correctly install dishwashers in your home. By following these steps, your dishes will be clean and shiny in no time.
Learn how to correctly install dishwashers in your home. By following these steps, your dishes will be clean and shiny in no time.
What is a Main Breaker?
Learn what the phrase main breaker means in this article.
Learn what the phrase main breaker means in this article.
Why Use Conduit ?
Learn the locations that conduit is designed to be used in.
Learn the locations that conduit is designed to be used in.
Switch Installation Height
If you've ever wondered what the typical height of a switch is, this article gives you some insight to installing switches in your home.
If you've ever wondered what the typical height of a switch is, this article gives you some insight to installing switches in your home.
Why Do Fuses Blow?
You've heard the term blown fuses, but what is this exactly?
You've heard the term blown fuses, but what is this exactly?
Portable Generator Do's/Don'ts
To ensure safe operation of a portable generator, here is a list of do's and don'ts.
To ensure safe operation of a portable generator, here is a list of do's and don'ts.
Wire a 4-Prong Dryer Outlets
Learn how easy it is to install and wire a 4-prong dryer outlet.
Learn how easy it is to install and wire a 4-prong dryer outlet.
Wire Electrical Disconnects
Learn which wires go where in the how-to article about wiring an electrical disconnect.
Learn which wires go where in the how-to article about wiring an electrical disconnect.
What's a Circuit Breaker Panel
Have you heard the term circuit breaker panel and really never knew too much about them and what they do? In this article, I explain what a circuit breaker panel is.
Have you heard the term circuit breaker panel and really never knew too much about them and what they do? In this article, I explain what a circuit breaker panel is.
Install an Outlet in a Wall
Learn how to add another circuit in an existing wall. These easy steps will allow you to add another outlet without having damaging the portion of the wall that you see.
Learn how to add another circuit in an existing wall. These easy steps will allow you to add another outlet without having damaging the portion of the wall that you see.
Testing Electrical Circuits
Testing electrical circuits is a must when they go on the fritz. Knowing how they work and how to test for power will help you track down the problem.
Testing electrical circuits is a must when they go on the fritz. Knowing how they work and how to test for power will help you track down the problem.
Ground Fault Circuit Breaker
Ground fault circuit breakers are used to protect humans from electrical shock hazards. These breakers are connected in the electrical panel and protect branch circuits in and around the home.
Ground fault circuit breakers are used to protect humans from electrical shock hazards. These breakers are connected in the electrical panel and protect branch circuits in and around the home.
How an Electrical System Works
We all use electricity in our homes every day, but how does it get there and how is it distributed throughout the home? The electrical system is comprised of many different devices from the power lines to your switches and outlets. See how the power flows in your electrical system with this informative step-by-step article.
We all use electricity in our homes every day, but how does it get there and how is it distributed throughout the home? The electrical system is comprised of many different devices from the power lines to your switches and outlets. See how the power flows in your electrical system with this informative step-by-step article.
What Are Branch Circuits?
A home's electrical system has feeder wires that supply power to the panel and branch circuits that leave the panel to power devices. Find out what these branch circuits are used for.
A home's electrical system has feeder wires that supply power to the panel and branch circuits that leave the panel to power devices. Find out what these branch circuits are used for.
Overhead Power Lines
Overhead power lines have some strict guidelines for height clearances over streets, sidewalks, alleys, roads, and driveways.
Overhead power lines have some strict guidelines for height clearances over streets, sidewalks, alleys, roads, and driveways.
Telephone Problems
Many people still have land-based telephones in their homes and they have their share of problems. This guide will walk you through ways to troubleshoot your telephone system for problems before you call the telephone company or their technition.
Many people still have land-based telephones in their homes and they have their share of problems. This guide will walk you through ways to troubleshoot your telephone system for problems before you call the telephone company or their technition.
Electric Water Heater Elements
Diagnosing electric water heater problems can be a snap if you know the shortcuts in finding the problems. Why sometimes, it is as easy as turning on a faucet to find the answer.
Diagnosing electric water heater problems can be a snap if you know the shortcuts in finding the problems. Why sometimes, it is as easy as turning on a faucet to find the answer.
Wiring Through Receptacles
Wiring through receptacles is a method that many people have used for years, but it is not the preferred method according to electricians and the National Electrical Code.
Wiring through receptacles is a method that many people have used for years, but it is not the preferred method according to electricians and the National Electrical Code.
GFCIhowtoinstall
Learn the basics of how to install ground fault circuit interrupter outlets.
Learn the basics of how to install ground fault circuit interrupter outlets.
How To Install a Dryer Cord
Learn how to properly install a dryer cord on an electric dryer.
Learn how to properly install a dryer cord on an electric dryer.
Three-way Switches
You've heard the term three-way switches, but what are they and what do they do? Find out in this article.
You've heard the term three-way switches, but what are they and what do they do? Find out in this article.
Balancing Electrical Loads
There are many benefits to balancing the loads of the two legs of power in your electrical panel and here's why.
There are many benefits to balancing the loads of the two legs of power in your electrical panel and here's why.
Wire Electric Range Receptacle
Learn how to wire electric range receptacles with this easy step-by-step guide.
Learn how to wire electric range receptacles with this easy step-by-step guide.
Amperage Not Voltage Kills
There are many dangers associated with electricity. The real danger with electrical shock is amperage, not voltage.
There are many dangers associated with electricity. The real danger with electrical shock is amperage, not voltage.
Testing Fuses
Learn how to test different types of fuses using a multi-meter. By setting the meter to ohms, a measurement of resistance, you can effectively determine if the fuse is good or blown.
Learn how to test different types of fuses using a multi-meter. By setting the meter to ohms, a measurement of resistance, you can effectively determine if the fuse is good or blown.
Double-pole Circuit Breakers
Double-pole breakers use two spaces in your electric panel versus one space by a single-pole breaker.
Double-pole breakers use two spaces in your electric panel versus one space by a single-pole breaker.
Electrical Project Costs
Find out what the average cost is for common electrical projects.
Find out what the average cost is for common electrical projects.
How to Install Junction Boxes
Learn how to install a junction box to conceal a wire splice.
Learn how to install a junction box to conceal a wire splice.
How to Connect a Range Cord
These simple step-by-step instructions will guide you through a range cord installation. Just follow the instructions and you'll be cooking with bacon in no time!
These simple step-by-step instructions will guide you through a range cord installation. Just follow the instructions and you'll be cooking with bacon in no time!
Ceiling Fan Noise
If your ceiling fan is making a lot of noise lately, this article is for you.
If your ceiling fan is making a lot of noise lately, this article is for you.
Electric Meter Measurements
Have you ever wondered how the utility company knows how much power you used each month? This basic article explains how it all works with an electric meter.
Have you ever wondered how the utility company knows how much power you used each month? This basic article explains how it all works with an electric meter.
Are Breakers Interchangeable?
When you need to change a breaker, learn why brands are not interchangeable.
When you need to change a breaker, learn why brands are not interchangeable.
Kitchen Wiring Circuits
Learn how to wire electrical circuits to feed the kitchen area of your home. This list shows you the circuits you may need to power the kitchen effectively
Learn how to wire electrical circuits to feed the kitchen area of your home. This list shows you the circuits you may need to power the kitchen effectively
Electrical Basics 101
This tutorial will make you aware of the different parts of a home's electrical system.
This tutorial will make you aware of the different parts of a home's electrical system.
Smoke Detectors in Your Home
Learn where to place smoke detectors in your home.
Learn where to place smoke detectors in your home.
How Does Electricity Work?
Electricity, how does electricity work anyway? Household electricity and its current flow can be easy to understand if you compare it to the plumbing in your home.
Electricity, how does electricity work anyway? Household electricity and its current flow can be easy to understand if you compare it to the plumbing in your home.
Why Window Air Conditioners Fr
A look at why window air conditioners often freeze up.
A look at why window air conditioners often freeze up.
Intermediate Metal Conduit
Intermediate metal conduit, or IMC for short, is a rigid steel electrical conduit that is lighter in weight than another conduit, but in some cases much stronger.
Intermediate metal conduit, or IMC for short, is a rigid steel electrical conduit that is lighter in weight than another conduit, but in some cases much stronger.
Replace a Light Socket
Have you ever walked into a room and turned on a light switch only to hear a pop? You look at the light fixture and one of the bulbs isn't working. Under further investigation, you see that one of the sockets has outlived it's usefulness. The socket is discolored and one of its wires is burnt to a crisp. Learn how to replace the socket here.
Have you ever walked into a room and turned on a light switch only to hear a pop? You look at the light fixture and one of the bulbs isn't working. Under further investigation, you see that one of the sockets has outlived it's usefulness. The socket is discolored and one of its wires is burnt to a crisp. Learn how to replace the socket here.
How Does your Electricity Flow?
In order to understand how electricity flows, you must first understand what the key terms mean. This simple list gives you some of the most commons terms.
In order to understand how electricity flows, you must first understand what the key terms mean. This simple list gives you some of the most commons terms.
Thermal Motor Protection
Electric motors incorporate thermal protection to protect the motor from burning up, find out why.
Electric motors incorporate thermal protection to protect the motor from burning up, find out why.
Circuits Needed Remodeling
If you are remodeling your kitchen, you will need to be sure these ciruits are in place.
If you are remodeling your kitchen, you will need to be sure these ciruits are in place.
How to Wire a Phone Jack
Learn how easy it is to wire a telephone jack by following these simple steps.
Learn how easy it is to wire a telephone jack by following these simple steps.
How to Size a Bathroom Exhaust Fan
In order to keep bathrooms free from mold and mildew, bathroom exhaust fans remove moisture and odor quickly and easily. The real secret is getting the right sized exhaust fan for the proper room size.
In order to keep bathrooms free from mold and mildew, bathroom exhaust fans remove moisture and odor quickly and easily. The real secret is getting the right sized exhaust fan for the proper room size.
Should I Install a GFCI Receptacle or a GFCI Breaker?
The question is often asked, whether it is better to install a GFCI receptacle or a GFCI breaker.
The question is often asked, whether it is better to install a GFCI receptacle or a GFCI breaker.
Larger Junction Boxes
Junction boxes come in many shapes and sizes. Depending on what sized wire, how many wires are in a given box and the number of wire splices in that box, you may need a little more room than a standard box can give you.
Junction boxes come in many shapes and sizes. Depending on what sized wire, how many wires are in a given box and the number of wire splices in that box, you may need a little more room than a standard box can give you.
Is My Old House Wiring Safe?
If you ever wondered about whether your wiring in your house was safe, here's a few things to consider.
If you ever wondered about whether your wiring in your house was safe, here's a few things to consider.
Seven Ways to Save
Find out how these seven tips can save you energy and save on your utility bill.
Find out how these seven tips can save you energy and save on your utility bill.
How to Change a Bake Element
Learn how to change an bake element in a electric oven.
Learn how to change an bake element in a electric oven.
Plug Fuses
Learn what plug fuses, tamper-proof fuses, and fuse adapters are and what they look like.
Learn what plug fuses, tamper-proof fuses, and fuse adapters are and what they look like.
NM Cable Color
Just as color codes mean something on individual electrical wires, so too is color-coding for nonmetallic cable.
Just as color codes mean something on individual electrical wires, so too is color-coding for nonmetallic cable.
Summer Cooling Tips
These simple but effect tips can keep you cool in the summer without the expense of running an air conditioner.
These simple but effect tips can keep you cool in the summer without the expense of running an air conditioner.
How To Wire Split Outlets
Learn how to make a regular outlet into a split outlet to have it be controlled by a switch. By breaking the center tab out of the hot side of the outlet, the outlet can serve two different purposes.
Learn how to make a regular outlet into a split outlet to have it be controlled by a switch. By breaking the center tab out of the hot side of the outlet, the outlet can serve two different purposes.
Wire a Baseboard Thermostat
Learn how to wire a baseboard heater thermostat.
Learn how to wire a baseboard heater thermostat.
Blown Fuses And Tripped Circuit Breakers
Fuses and circuit breakers are used to protect electrical circuits. But when fuses blow or circuit breakers trip, do you know why? Do you know what to do to get the circuit working again? One you can reset while the other needs replacing. Find out why and how to make the circuit work again.
Fuses and circuit breakers are used to protect electrical circuits. But when fuses blow or circuit breakers trip, do you know why? Do you know what to do to get the circuit working again? One you can reset while the other needs replacing. Find out why and how to make the circuit work again.
National Electrical Codes For Bathrooms
The National Electrical Code was written to provide a set of rules and regulations to keep the use of electricity in your home safe. Here are the top bathrooms codes you need to live by to remain safe and keep your electrical devices working properly.
The National Electrical Code was written to provide a set of rules and regulations to keep the use of electricity in your home safe. Here are the top bathrooms codes you need to live by to remain safe and keep your electrical devices working properly.
Electrical Safety
Electrical safety should be observed every time you even think about touching something connected to an electrical circuit. With the invention of electrical testers, circuits are easy to test and with circuit breakers and fuses, circuits can be shut off to avoid contact with electricity all together. In this informative piece, you'll find some tips to keep you safe when working with electricity.
Electrical safety should be observed every time you even think about touching something connected to an electrical circuit. With the invention of electrical testers, circuits are easy to test and with circuit breakers and fuses, circuits can be shut off to avoid contact with electricity all together. In this informative piece, you'll find some tips to keep you safe when working with electricity.
Reasons To Install A Subpanel In Your Home
There are many reasons to add a subpanel to your home. when you main panel is short of adaquate space or many things are powered from another location in your home or garage, a subpanel may be for you. learn how to size the subpanel before you install it.
There are many reasons to add a subpanel to your home. when you main panel is short of adaquate space or many things are powered from another location in your home or garage, a subpanel may be for you. learn how to size the subpanel before you install it.
Fishing Electrical Wires
If you've ever had to add a new wire, for an outlet or switch, in an existing wall, this tip will surely help.
If you've ever had to add a new wire, for an outlet or switch, in an existing wall, this tip will surely help.
Safe Circuit Loads
Learn how to calculate safe circuit loads on home wiring circuits.
Learn how to calculate safe circuit loads on home wiring circuits.
Electrical Inspector Checkpoints
Here's a quick look at what an electrical inspector may require you to do.
Here's a quick look at what an electrical inspector may require you to do.
NEC GFCI Protection
Find out what the national electrical Code states about ground-fault circuit-interrupters in dwellings.
Find out what the national electrical Code states about ground-fault circuit-interrupters in dwellings.
Energy Saving Window Air Conditioners
To increase energy savings, newer window air conditioners have an energy saver detting that turns the unit offand on while cooling the room. This saves you money on your electric bill.
To increase energy savings, newer window air conditioners have an energy saver detting that turns the unit offand on while cooling the room. This saves you money on your electric bill.
Cable, Wire And Conduit Installation Dates
Wiring methods have changed over the years from knob and tube to flexible armored cable (Greenfield) to nonmetallic cable (NM), conduit (EMT), and underground feeder (UF) cable. From about 1890 to the present, wiring methods have become much safer due to the installation types of wiring and the addition of ground wires.
Wiring methods have changed over the years from knob and tube to flexible armored cable (Greenfield) to nonmetallic cable (NM), conduit (EMT), and underground feeder (UF) cable. From about 1890 to the present, wiring methods have become much safer due to the installation types of wiring and the addition of ground wires.
Install Single-pole Switches
Installing and wiring a single-pole switch couldn't be easier than with this step-by-step guide from About.com's electrical guide, Timothy Thiele.
Installing and wiring a single-pole switch couldn't be easier than with this step-by-step guide from About.com's electrical guide, Timothy Thiele.
How to Reset a Circuit Breaker
Learn how to reset a circuit breaker that has tripped.
Learn how to reset a circuit breaker that has tripped.
Single-pole Circuit Breakers
Single-pole breakers are an important part of electrical distribution as a safe way to manage branch circuits from a circuit breaker panel.
Single-pole breakers are an important part of electrical distribution as a safe way to manage branch circuits from a circuit breaker panel.
outletsandreceptacleshub
Outlets, also known as receptacles, become weak and the tension of the inner contact points won't hold the cord plugs securely after years of use. Installing and replacing outlets can be easy with these top outlet and receptacle articles.
Outlets, also known as receptacles, become weak and the tension of the inner contact points won't hold the cord plugs securely after years of use. Installing and replacing outlets can be easy with these top outlet and receptacle articles.
Why Not To Use Plug Adapters
Plug adapters make it possible to plug a grounded plug into two-pronged polarized outlets. Find out why they should not be used.
Plug adapters make it possible to plug a grounded plug into two-pronged polarized outlets. Find out why they should not be used.
Lubricating Fan Motor Centair
Leran how lubricating the central air conditioner's fan can add to its life.
Leran how lubricating the central air conditioner's fan can add to its life.
Central Air Conditioner Uses
You've heard the term central air conditioner, but do you know what makes up a central air conditioner and what the parts of the central air conditioner are?
You've heard the term central air conditioner, but do you know what makes up a central air conditioner and what the parts of the central air conditioner are?
Three Types Of Space Heaters
Space heaters are best used as supplemental heaters and are usually one of three types.
Space heaters are best used as supplemental heaters and are usually one of three types.
Install a Ceiling Fixture
Learn how to install and wire a ceiling light.
Learn how to install and wire a ceiling light.
Size Your Extension Cords
Electrical extension cords are great way to extend circuits to areas that you are working, away from available outlets. Many times, the user doesn't heed the extension cord size compared to th elength of the run.
Electrical extension cords are great way to extend circuits to areas that you are working, away from available outlets. Many times, the user doesn't heed the extension cord size compared to th elength of the run.
What Is a Fish Tape?
When pulling wires through pipes, an electrician's tool list wouldn't be complete without a fish tape. This coiled spool of thin wire is a must-have tool to make wire pulling an easy job. A fish tape is nimble enough to go around corners and bends in conduit and is strong enough to pull wires through piping without breaking.
When pulling wires through pipes, an electrician's tool list wouldn't be complete without a fish tape. This coiled spool of thin wire is a must-have tool to make wire pulling an easy job. A fish tape is nimble enough to go around corners and bends in conduit and is strong enough to pull wires through piping without breaking.
How to Install F-Connectors
Learn how to install an F-Connector on coaxial cable.
Learn how to install an F-Connector on coaxial cable.
Turn On a Circuit Breaker
Learn how simple it s to turn on a circuit breaker.
Learn how simple it s to turn on a circuit breaker.
Breaker Panel Breakdown
Take a look at what can be installed in a circuit breaker panel and how each of these things has a specific role to play.
Take a look at what can be installed in a circuit breaker panel and how each of these things has a specific role to play.
How To Turn Off a Circuit Brea
Electrical projects often involve taking devices out of boxes and opening up existing circuits. For these reasons, it is imperative to know how to turn a circuit breaker off in order to safely work on a project. Shutting off the circuit that you're working on and then testing the circuit will ensure that you won't be electrocuted. Electrical safety should be your number one concern for the welfare of yourself and your family.
Electrical projects often involve taking devices out of boxes and opening up existing circuits. For these reasons, it is imperative to know how to turn a circuit breaker off in order to safely work on a project. Shutting off the circuit that you're working on and then testing the circuit will ensure that you won't be electrocuted. Electrical safety should be your number one concern for the welfare of yourself and your family.
Choosing The Best Grounding Materials
A grounding system is comprised of a ground rod, wiring to connect it to a service panel, and a ground buss. It is a very important part of your electrical system to ensure electrical safety.
A grounding system is comprised of a ground rod, wiring to connect it to a service panel, and a ground buss. It is a very important part of your electrical system to ensure electrical safety.
Electrical Wiring
Electrical wiring comes in many different voltage ratings, colors, and uses. It may be used for feeder wiring, low-voltage wiring, branch circuitry throughout your home, or eve grounding. The size and style of the wire that you're using dictates its usefulness on the project that you're trying to accomplish. Understanding electrical wiring is essential to a successful and safe installation in your home. Here are some great electrical wiring tips at a glance.
Electrical wiring comes in many different voltage ratings, colors, and uses. It may be used for feeder wiring, low-voltage wiring, branch circuitry throughout your home, or eve grounding. The size and style of the wire that you're using dictates its usefulness on the project that you're trying to accomplish. Understanding electrical wiring is essential to a successful and safe installation in your home. Here are some great electrical wiring tips at a glance.
Spa and Hot Tub Outdoor Wiring
Spas and hot tubs require some special electrical connections. Given spas and hot tubs come in different shapes and sizes, they may have more than one pump, requiring more power. These units should be connected properly to insure electrical safety guidelines.
Spas and hot tubs require some special electrical connections. Given spas and hot tubs come in different shapes and sizes, they may have more than one pump, requiring more power. These units should be connected properly to insure electrical safety guidelines.
Connecting Wires To Terminals
When connecting electrical wires to switches and outlets, the way you strip, bend, and tighten the wire on the terminal will determine how good the connection really is.
When connecting electrical wires to switches and outlets, the way you strip, bend, and tighten the wire on the terminal will determine how good the connection really is.
Calculating Subpanel Loads
The subpanel wiring sizes can be determined after finding the appropriate sized circuit breaker.
The subpanel wiring sizes can be determined after finding the appropriate sized circuit breaker.
Arc Fault
Learn what an arc fault is and what causes it. Find out why it's important to protect against it.
Learn what an arc fault is and what causes it. Find out why it's important to protect against it.
Electrical Wire Insulation
Individual electrical wires come wrapped in different types of insulation, different colors, and are rated for different amperages. Find out what they all mean.
Individual electrical wires come wrapped in different types of insulation, different colors, and are rated for different amperages. Find out what they all mean.
Wire Size
My readers often ask what the proper sized wire is for installations in a home. Here's a look at the common sizes.
My readers often ask what the proper sized wire is for installations in a home. Here's a look at the common sizes.
Air Conditioning Chart
Air conditioners cool your home and sizing the air conditioner to the room size is essential for proper efficiency and cooling capacity. Air conditioners are rated in BTU's and the BTU rating determines the cooling capacity in square footage of the living area to be cooled.This air conditioning chart will help you choose the air conditioner to best cool your room.
Air conditioners cool your home and sizing the air conditioner to the room size is essential for proper efficiency and cooling capacity. Air conditioners are rated in BTU's and the BTU rating determines the cooling capacity in square footage of the living area to be cooled.This air conditioning chart will help you choose the air conditioner to best cool your room.
Why Your Oven Won't Heat Up
If you turn the oven on and it doesn't heat up, it could be your oven ignitor has gone bad.
If you turn the oven on and it doesn't heat up, it could be your oven ignitor has gone bad.
Service Size Of My Home
If you're thinking about updating your electrical service size but don't know what size you have now, this article will help you locate the answer.
If you're thinking about updating your electrical service size but don't know what size you have now, this article will help you locate the answer.
Two Ways of Testing Single-pole Switches
Here's a simple couple of ways to test a single-pole switch in and out of the circuit.
Here's a simple couple of ways to test a single-pole switch in and out of the circuit.
Wrong Light Bulb Wattage
Light bulbs can burn out from time to time and should always be replaced with the right wattage light bulb for the light fixture that you are installing it in.
Light bulbs can burn out from time to time and should always be replaced with the right wattage light bulb for the light fixture that you are installing it in.
Making Drop Cords Safe Again
Learn how to replace extension cord plugs that have become unsafe. All cord plugs need a ground connection.
Learn how to replace extension cord plugs that have become unsafe. All cord plugs need a ground connection.
Whirlpool Duet Washer
Front-load washers, like the Whirlpool Duet washers, have some advantages over the top load washers. They are commercial grade washers and are much larger than a standard top-load washer. Because of their size and because they have no agitator in the middle of the drum, they can hold more clothes. Can you guess how many pairs of jeans this unit can wash?
Front-load washers, like the Whirlpool Duet washers, have some advantages over the top load washers. They are commercial grade washers and are much larger than a standard top-load washer. Because of their size and because they have no agitator in the middle of the drum, they can hold more clothes. Can you guess how many pairs of jeans this unit can wash?
What are Sub-panels?
Learn what sub-panels are and what role they play in the scheme of electrical systems in your home.
Learn what sub-panels are and what role they play in the scheme of electrical systems in your home.
Push-in Terminals
Learn why the push-in connections are not the best choice for connecting switches and receptacles.
Learn why the push-in connections are not the best choice for connecting switches and receptacles.
Overhead and Buried Service Entrances
Though most of the older homes have an overhead service connection, underground services are becoming the overall favorite among homeowners. these buried lines are more appealing to the eye and the surrounding landscape area than power poles and overhead lines draped acroos someone's yard. but just like overhead service line feeders, there are rules that must be followed when installing these lines. And unlike overhead lines, underground feeders present their own dangers.<
Though most of the older homes have an overhead service connection, underground services are becoming the overall favorite among homeowners. these buried lines are more appealing to the eye and the surrounding landscape area than power poles and overhead lines draped acroos someone's yard. but just like overhead service line feeders, there are rules that must be followed when installing these lines. And unlike overhead lines, underground feeders present their own dangers.<
Electrical Box Installations
There are many different types of electrical boxes. Some are designed to house switches and outlets, while others are used for hanging light fixtures. Still others are designed for outdoor and weatherproof installations, not to mention low-voltage installations.
There are many different types of electrical boxes. Some are designed to house switches and outlets, while others are used for hanging light fixtures. Still others are designed for outdoor and weatherproof installations, not to mention low-voltage installations.
Breaker! Breaker!
Learn what to do when your circuit breaker trips or fuse blows. When you lose a circuit in your home, these tips will come in handy.
Learn what to do when your circuit breaker trips or fuse blows. When you lose a circuit in your home, these tips will come in handy.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters are a safe way to provide hot water to your home. However, there are some things you'll need to do before replacing the old one.
Electric water heaters are a safe way to provide hot water to your home. However, there are some things you'll need to do before replacing the old one.
Over-The-Range Microwave Oven
An over-the-range microwave oven will need an outlet to run it. This outlet should be installed somewhere in the upper cabinet that the microwave will hang from.
An over-the-range microwave oven will need an outlet to run it. This outlet should be installed somewhere in the upper cabinet that the microwave will hang from.
Metal Roof Dangers
Many people today are installing metal roofs to replace the conventional singles they once had. But what are the dangers associated with metal roofs?
Many people today are installing metal roofs to replace the conventional singles they once had. But what are the dangers associated with metal roofs?