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Home improvement and renovation tips

Electrical basics III – how to wire an outlet

Here's a basic explanation of the wiring of an outlet.If you're wiring a new outlet, pry up and remove the round knockout, where the wire will enter the box, and loosen the screws on the clamp inside. Until the cable is inside the box, the white sheath should cover the three wires. Once the cable's ...

Electrical basics II – how to replace outlets

Last time, we briefly explained the path electricity takes through wires and electrical devices. Now we'll do a simple operation: replace an outlet. (Maybe you want to replace the standard receptacle with a sleek new design, or you don't like the color of the existing receptacle.)First thing -- shut off the power. Flip the breaker ...

Electrical basics

Once you take the fear of the unknown out of it, working with your home's electricity isn't that scary. Of course, you should treat it with respect and know when to call on a professional. But you should be able to deal with simple jobs, such as adding a new outlet or installing a new ...

What are GFIs and why do you need them?

Let's answer that question in reverse order. You have them because they might save your life.Faulty electrical appliances can conduct electricity, and if you touch that appliance you're suddenly part of the circuit. The current flashes through your body to the ground and, well... that's that. Naturally the danger is compounded when you add water.But ...

Trunk o' Tips – fast refinishes and dimmer switch magic

You know there's a beautiful hardwood floor hiding under that unsightly finish. How do you bring it to life? Before you rent the floor sander and start attacking it, try this.Pour rubbing alcohol over a small area, and rub it with medium steel wool. If the dull finish is just old wax and grime, this ...

How to repair an electric doorbell

The easiest solution to a broken electric doorbell is to put a little tape over the bell and hang a doorknocker. But it's not too tough to repair the bell.1) If you've lost power elsewhere, it's likely a fuse or a circuit breaker. If not...2) Remove the doorbell button, disconnect one of the wires and ...

Tips to install outdoor lighting

Whether you're lighting for safety, security or mood, these tips will help you get it right.Don't overdo it. If your backyard looks like it's ready for a twilight double header, you won't enjoy it and neither will your neighbors. (Before you install, run your lighting plans by your neighbors; they'll appreciate it.)Vary the brightness levels, ...

How to fish and update old wiring and receptacles

If you have an old house, you may have old wiring. Here are a few ideas.Ground-fault circuit-interrupters (GFCIs) are essential in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and for outdoor outlets, but they can protect you elsewhere. If you have old two-slot outlets and need to plug in three-prong appliances and equipment, don't just replace ...

How to rewire a lamp

A faulty switch or poorly wired lamp is at the least irritating, at the most dangerous. But you don't have to get rid of a nice old lamp just because it's not working.You shouldn't have to dismantle the whole lamp, but just in case, the diagram below shows how a lamp goes together. Buy the ...

Fuse-panel safety

If you have an old-fashioned fuse panel, here's some help to prepare you for the unexpected and protect your home from dangerous oversights.Common-sense cautionNever remove fuses in the dark; have a flashlight handy. Wear rubber-soled shoes or stand on a rubber mat. Remove fuses with one hand. Screw new fuses in very tightly. And never, ...