'Energy Efficiency' Category

If a lamp cord is damaged, the only safe solution is to buy a replacement cord with plug at a hardware store and install it. Here is how to rewire the lamp. [...] Read More

Buy a new tube with the same wattage rating as the old one. Standard flourescent bulbs are labeled "cool white." Those labeled "daylight" or "color corrected" will cost more but will also render colors better. To replace a tube, grasp the old tube on both ends and twist to free the pins then slide it out of the sockets. [...] Read More

Whether you choose a round dimmer switch or one that looks more like a standard switch with a lever on the side, the installation procedure is the same. Turn off the power to the switch at the service panel. Remove the cover plate and the screws holding the switch to the box. [...] Read More

A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a safety device that can save your life. It protects you from an abnormal electrical current flow due to a short. When an electrical current is operating correctly, an equal amount of power is flowing to and from the intended target on two wires. [...] Read More

Electrical wires are covered with protective insulation. The wires conduct electricity only if the insulation on the end of the wire is removed to expose the metal. Knowing how to strip insulation off a wire end is sometimes necessary when making electrical repairs. [...] Read More

If a switch stops working or if a receptacle is damaged or burned out, the solution is nearly always to replace it. Here are some points to keep in mind. [...] Read More

Test individual receptacles with an inexpensive receptacle analyzer. Plug in the analyzer and compare the resulting pattern with the code provided. It will tell you if the circuit is wired correctly or if it is not then what the problem is. [...] Read More

Work on your electrical system only when you are absolutely sure that it is safe. Even experienced electricians err on the side of caution when verifying that power has been shut off on a circuit needing repair. The repairs in this section are ones that a motivated homeowner can do but don't hesitate to call an electrician if you feel uncomfortable about taking on a particular job. [...] Read More

The size of a fuse or breaker in your service panel is determined by the expected load on a circuit and the size of the wires in the circuit. Fuses and breakers are designed to blow or trip when the demand for electricity is excessive, before wiring gets dangerously hot. Never replace a fuse with one of larger amperage. [...] Read More

Electricity flows through wires much like water flows through pipes. The electrical pressure that causes current to flow is measure in volts. This pressure is set by your electrical utility company and is 120 volts for most circuits. The rate at which the electricity flows is measure in amps (amperes). [...] Read More