Electrical
Get current on the aspects of home electricity, with how to's from planning to installation and beyond.
Installing Architectural Speakers
Glen Ridge, NJ homeowner Jason takes on the job of the home audio system and breaks down the components and the purpose of the new architectural speakers he plans to install with Kevin O’Connor.
How to Replace a Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans are significantly heavier than the average light fixture. This is due to their motors and controls as well as different wiring, fan blades, and other parts. They can’t hang from a simple light fixture bracket, as they’re too heavy and vibrate during use. When a homeowner faced this issue during a ceiling fan upgrade project, master electrician Heath Eastman knew just what to do.
Whole House Surge Protectors: How Effective Are They?
While no surge protection system is 100% effective, a whole-house surge protector can significantly reduce your risk.
All About Multimeters: How To Use, Monitor, and Calibrate
A multimeter is a useful tool that can measure voltage for basic electrical work. Read our guide to learn how to use a multimeter as part of your next do-it-yourself project.
How To Label a Circuit Breaker
Master electrician Heath Eastman shows host Kevin O’Connor how to identify breakers using his favorite tools and techniques, and some helpful tips for labeling the individual circuits.
Simple Guide for Selecting a Home Generator
Master electrician Heath Eastman teaches host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about choosing a generator for a home.
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All About Portable Power Stations
This new alternative to gas generators makes it push-button easy to get the lights back on when the power goes out.
How To Safely Hook Up a Generator to Your House
Learn how to safely connect a portable generator to your home's electrical system with a transfer switch and power inlet box.
How To Build, Customize, and Maintain a Utility Cover
Gas meters can be eyesores on your property, but there's an easy way to stylishly sheath them. Read about how to build, customize, and maintain a utility cover in our guide.
Understanding Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
This Old House master electrician Heath Eastman teaches host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about these fire safety devices.
How to Install Outdoor String Lights With Easy to Follow Steps
Master electrician Heath Eastman helps a homeowner make her backyard space charming and cozy with a simple lighting upgrade.
How to Install a Basement Circuit With Simple to Follow Steps
Master electrician Heath Eastman demonstrates how to safely install a new circuit to connect a new space to a home's wiring.
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Understanding Wire Gauges: A Guide to the AWG System
Learn about American Wire Gauge (AWG) sizes, why they matter, and how to choose the right wire gauge for your electrical projects.
How to Troubleshoot a Dimmer Switch
Master electrician Heath Eastman helps a homeowner fix flickering lights controlled by a dimmer switch. Heath shows us the most common issues that homeowners can run into with their dimmer switches.
Why Circuit Breakers Trip and How You can Prevent it
Master electrician Heath Eastman shows host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about why and how circuit breakers trip.
The 5 Best Inverter Generators (2024 Review)
With enhanced fuel efficiency, an inverter generator allows you to power devices and appliances without wasting energy. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best inverter generators on Amazon to help you find the product that’s right for you and your home.
Generator Buying Guide: What You Need to Know (2024)
Generators provide peace of mind by giving your home a backup power source in the event of a blackout. We’ve compiled this detailed buyer’s guide to give you all the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision.
Must-Know Christmas Light Safety Tips for the Holiday Season
Master electrician Heath Eastman shows host Kevin O’Connor what he needs to know about holiday light safety, so he can be festive and safe.
How to Install a Wall Sconce
Adding a wall-mounted light fixture in the living room, bedroom, or bathroom is a very achievable project. These pro tips and tools will shed light on the simplest way to install a wall sconce.
All About GFCI Receptacles: Types and Installation
Master electrician Heath Eastman teaches host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about ground fault circuit interrupters.
How to Replace a Doorbell
Doorbell not working? Learn how to replace a doorbell—including the chime, wiring, and transformer—with our step-by-step guide.
Electrical Vehicle Chargers Explained
Master electrician Heath Eastman teaches This Old House host Kevin O’Connor everything he (or anyone else) needs to know about choosing an electric vehicle charger for their home.
The 4 Best Portable Power Stations (2024 Review)
A portable power station can be a lifesaver in the event of a power outage at home or if you’re on an off-the-grid trip. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the four best portable power stations on Amazon to help you find the product that’s right for you and your home. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
How to Drill Into Studs for Electrical Wiring
Master electrician Heath Eastman explains how pros drill through studs for running wires through wood-framed walls.
How to Install an Electrical Receptacle on a Kitchen Island
Master electrician Heath Eastman solves a problem for a homeowner by adding an outlet to her new kitchen island.
How Heath Eastman Became an Electrician
This Old House Master Electrician Heath Eastman explains how chance brought him to the electrical trade and the This Old House crew.
How to Move a Light Fixture
Master electrician Heath Eastman helps a homeowner with an askew light fixture, centering it over their dining room table.
What is a Junction Box & How to Install One
A junction box provides a code-approved place to house wire connections, whether for outlets, switches, or splices. Here's how to install one.
Tool Lab | Basic Electrical Tools
Master electrician Heath Eastman walks us through his favorite electrical hand tools that all DIYers should own.
8 Best Solar Generators (2024 Review)
A solar generator gives you backup energy from the sun if you’re out camping or if you’re experiencing a power outage. We’ve reviewed the top solar generators here.
LED Light Bulbs 101
Master electrician Heath Eastman enlightens host Kevin O’Connor on everything he needs to know about LED bulbs.
Smart Electrical Panels: The Future of Home Energy Management
Home technology expert Ross Trethewey and master electrician Heath Eastman teach host Kevin O’Connor about smart electrical panels.