Home Tech & Electric
We live in a world that’s overflowing with electric gizmos, from lights and appliances to TVs, garage door openers, computers, and WiFi. It pays to know how to make smart choices, and to know how to repair problems and install equipment.
In this family of articles, we look at how to buy, fix, and install many different types of electrical devices, systems, and fixtures. Just pick a subject below, or search for the topic that interests you.
Doorbells
Wired doorbells are simple electrical systems. Repairing one is normally easy and a good lesson in basic electricity—as long as you can find the key components.
Electric Receptacles
Electrical receptacles, sometimes called outlets or wall plugs, are integral to the functioning of a modern household. Learn everything you need to know about them in this section.
Electrical Systems
Without electricity, practically nothing works, from appliances and lights to computers and air conditioners. Working on home electrical systems can be justifiably intimidating, but we demystify it in this section.
Electrical Wiring
Home electrical wiring can seem mysterious, but have no fear: This helpful section will help you understand how wiring works and how to work with wire.
Generators
When the electrical power goes out during a major storm or utility company outage, many of us realize just how reliant we are on electricity. Generators can supply enough power to keep our households operating until the electricity returns.
Home Security Systems
Check this section before shopping for a home security alarm system so you understand the differences between wired, wireless, monitored, non-monitored and other options.
Light Switches & Controls
We take switches for granted, but if you have ever remodeled a room, you know that it takes some thought to choose the right kind of switches because there are many, many variations on the standard switch.
Lighting
Interior lighting can be divided into three basic categories–task, accent, and ambient–with different types of fixtures that each perform one of these functions.
Network & Phone
A household data network connects two or more computers, printers, or other devices, using cables or radio links.
Solar Electric (PV) Panels
Everything you need to know to make an educated buying decision when shopping for a new PV system.
TV & Entertainment
In this section we will help you make informed choices about buying and installing various types of entertainment technologies.
Interior Home Improvement Articles
Home Security for People Who Live Alone
Home security alarm systems have traditionally been designed for specific type of consumers: families with children who live in houses that have multiple points of
How to Size a Standby Generator for Your Home
Expert advice on how to properly size a standby generator so it will provide the needed electricity for your home in the event of a
Home Electrical Wiring
Home electrical wiring can seem mysterious, but have no fear: This helpful guide will help you understand how wiring works and how to work with
Three-Way Switch Wiring | How to Wire 3-Way Switches
How to wire a pair of three-way switches to turn lights on and off from both ends of a hallway or the top and bottom
How to Check a Doorbell Transformer – Doorbell Does Not Work
Doorbell doesn’t work? Checking a doorbell transformer is easy—if you can find it. Sometimes locating it can be the real challenge. Here is where to
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How to Wire an Outdoor Receptacle
Types of Electrical Receptacles
How Electrical Receptacles Work
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