Electrical
Get current on the aspects of home electricity, with how to's from planning to installation and beyond.
How To Add Task Lighting to a Kitchen
Task lighting can transform your kitchen from a gloomy space to one flooded with light. Find out how to install task lighting here.
Prevent Electrical Fires with Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters
About half of home electrical fires result from shorts, also known as arc faults. An arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) can help stop them.
How To Install Recessed Lighting in a Kitchen
Ask This Old House electrician Scott Caron demonstrates how to install recessed light fixtures in a finished ceiling.
Dealing With Leaking Stray Voltage
Avoid danger and sky-high electric bills by contacting a pro
How To Install a Front Entry Intercom
Learn how to upgrade to a convenient front door intercom with This Old House host Kevin O'Connor and electrician Scott Matthews.
How Electrical Circuit Breakers and GFCIs Protect a Home
Master electrician Scott Caron discusses electrical circuit breakers, AFCIs and GCIS, and shares tips for preventing shocks and electrocution.
How To Connect a 220-Volt Receptacle to a 20-Amp Breaker
In this guide, electrician Allen Gallant shows you how to connect a 220-volt receptacle for high-powered tools and appliances.
How To Install a Transfer Switch for a Portable Generator
Looking to keep electricity flowing to essential appliances during a power outage? Read our guide on how to install a transfer switch.
A Guide to Track Lighting: Installation and Common Pitfalls
Learn how to install a track lighting system on the ceiling of your kitchen, office, or living room, with master electrician Allen Gallant.
How To Wire Outdoor Speakers
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to snake wires through walls for a pair of outdoor speakers.
How To Upgrade an Electric Meter to 200-Amp Service
Learn the process behind a 200-amp service upgrade from master electrician Scott Caron with our step-by-step electrical guide.
How To Upgrade an Electrical Panel to 200-Amp Service
Master electrician Scott Caron installs a new panel to complete a service upgrade and shares details, techniques, and safety precautions.
Everything You Need to Know to Install Recessed Lights
Brighten up your home by installing this simple light fixture. This Old House master electrician Heath Eastman shows you how.
How To Mark for Electrical Boxes When Hanging Drywall
Learn how to mark holes for electrical boxes on drywall from This Old House general contractor Tom Silva by following our step-by-step guide.
How To Add an Electrical Outlet
Learn how to add a new electrical outlet to your home from master electrician Allen Gallant in our step-by-step installation guide.
How To Hang a Flat-Screen TV
Tom Silva advises how to hang a flat-screen TV the right way to ensure safety and prevent wall damage. See the steps and get expert tips.
How to Monitor Electricity Use in Your Home
Worried about electricity costs? Learn some simple tips for cutting down your energy usage from energy efficiency expert Paul Scheckel.
How to Rewire a Vintage Entry Lantern
In this guide, we walk you through how to rewire a vintage lantern to add some cozy charm to your entryway.
How To Rewire a Lamp
A few inexpensive supplies and the right connections can make an old lamp new again
How To Replace a Faulty Three-Way Switch in Your Home
Learn insider tips for replacing a faulty three-way light switch in your home with our step-by-step switch replacement guide.
How To Fix a Broken Doorbell On Your Own in 6 Simple Steps
Is your doorbell chiming intermittently or not working at all? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to diagnose and repair your doorbell.
What's In an Electrical Outlet? How to Diagnose and Fix Outlets
Learn about the different parts of an electrical outlet, such as wiring, plates, and more. Our guide will help you to better understand your system.
Power to the Pumps
Learn how to safely get electricity to outdoor water features in this guide. You'll need a licensed electrician to do most of the work.
Protecting Old Wires: Essential Tips for Electrical Safety
If you live in an old home, your wiring may be at risk of failure if you're not careful. In this guide, we show you how to protect old wires.
A Guide to Understanding How Standby Generators Work
Learn how standby generators keep your essential appliances running smoothly during power outages, plus advice on choosing the right option for your home.
A Comprehensive Guide to Replacing Two-Prong Receptacles
There are several ways to upgrade older two-prong receptacles to three-prong ones. Learn more from expert Heath Eastman.
How To Install a Standby Generator for Your Home
Worried about power outages? Learn how to install a standby generator by following our detailed guide so you never risk losing electricity.
How To Hide Speaker Wires
Hiding your speak wires not only makes your entertainment setup look cleaner—it can also extend the lifespan of your wires.
How to Replace an Extension Cord Plug
Does your extension cord plug need replacement? Here are easy steps to help you rewire and fix an old or broken cord.
From the Ground Up: Electrical Wiring
Set up an electrical system for maximum safety and convenience now and in the future.
Backup Power
When the electricity goes out, standby generators can keep your household running. This article explores the main types of backup power.
10 Electrical Wiring Problems Solved
This guide explains 10 of the most common electrical problems in older homes and the best solutions for each issue.