First thing’s first: electrical work is serious, technical, and often dangerous business. When we say “DIY electrical work,” we’re talking pretty simple stuff--and even that stuff is dangerous. If you’re even a little intimidated by the electrical work you’re contemplating (no matter how “simple” it may seem), call the … [Read more...]
How Can I Tell My Outlets Are Working?
Outlet mechanisms are hidden by design, so it can be surprisingly difficult to tell if there’s something wrong with them. There are also all kinds of things that can go wrong with your outlets, and each problem could have several different effects. Sometimes, an outlet could seem to work perfectly well… until it starts … [Read more...]
What Are the Easiest Ways to Use Less Electrical Power?
Reducing your home's electricity usage is good for both your bank account and the environment. You help the environment by playing a smaller role in the production of the toxic fumes power plants generate. You help your bank account by wasting less money on unnecessary energy usage. Reducing the amount of electricity … [Read more...]
How Can I Fix a Loose Outlet?
Since we use electrical outlets nonstop every day, it’s easy to forget how dangerous they can be. All that separates us from the dangerous, high-voltage electrical currents flowing through our wires is a hard plastic shell. If your outlets ever look loose, it’s very important to fix it right away. Loose outlets could … [Read more...]
5 Ways to Keep Your Pets Safe from Electrical Hazards
Electrical dangers aren’t just dangerous to you; they can be very dangerous to your pets. Remember, your pets obviously don’t understand how to avoid electrocution the way you do. If there are potential electrical hazards around your home, your pets won’t know how to avoid them. Worse, pets can sometimes make their … [Read more...]
How to Use a Multimeter
A multimeter is a handheld instrument used to check a variety of electrical information. You would use a multimeter to check whether a fixture uses AC or DC voltage, whether it contained a live current, the status of resistance and continuity in electrical components, and more. It also measures ohms, volts, and amps. A … [Read more...]
What Are the Most Dangerous Electrical Hazards in a Home?
Home electrical hazards are often overlooked or misunderstood. In most cases, they become a problem precisely because homeowners don’t realize they’re a problem! Unfortunately, electrical hazards and the fires they could start can be a very real problem. The best way to avoid disaster is to learn about the common … [Read more...]
How to Improve Your Outdoor Living With a Lighting Upgrade
Outdoor living means something different to everyone. Maybe you’re a big fan of lounging under a tree reading a book. Maybe you stage elaborate garden parties. Or maybe you just like to garden with your kids! Whatever your personal definition may be, there’s one thing that’s always true of outdoor living: upgrades … [Read more...]
What is Knob and Tube Wiring?
There’s a pretty good chance you’ve never heard of “knob and tube wiring” before. You probably don’t know what it is, what it’s used for, or why it could be dangerous. You might even have knob and tube wiring in your home or building without knowing it. If you do, you’ll probably want to get rid of it ASAP. We’ll … [Read more...]
3 Reasons Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
First things first: what in tarnation is a circuit breaker? Your home's circuit breaker is its central hub of electricity. Its beating, wired heart. The place where all the electrical current that enters your home flows first. Your circuit breaker safely directs electricity throughout your home while preventing … [Read more...]
