Understanding Watts vs. Lumens for Home Lighting
Soon incandescent light bulbs will be a thing of the past, and their “wattage” rating will become obsolete. In their places will be high efficiency bulbs with a much more accurate “lumens” rating. Read on for a handy guide to help you navigate the changes.
Living Off the Grid: How to Generate Your Own Electricity
Find out what day to day life is like living in a home powered by alternative solar and wind energy.
How to Replace a Paddle Ceiling Fan Pull Chain Switch
Brad asks, “How can I fix the pull chain on my ceiling fan that broke off inside the switch?” With most pull chain fan switches, you’ll need to replace the switch, though on some models you may be able to reattach the chain.
How to Run Wires in Existing Walls and Floors
Need a new phone jack in your bedroom or installing speakers for your home theater system? While you could simply string the wires along the floor, it’s best to snake the wires inside walls or under floors. With careful planning, a few special tools, and the right techniques, it can be easier than you may think. Read on to find out how.
How to Fix a Buzzing or Humming Dimmer Switch
You can usually solve a noisy dimmer switch by replacing the bulbs or the dimmer switch itself. Read on to find out more.
How to Protect Your Home from Solar Flares and Solar Storms
The sun's magnetic and sunspot cycles are expected to peak in 2013, bringing a stormy season to our solar system and an increase in sun related damage here on Earth. Read on to find out how to protect your home and electronic gear from damage caused by solar flares and solar storms.
How to Install a Programmable Timer Switch
Replacing a wall switch with a programmable timer switch can increase a standard light switch's function. Here are some of the benefits of a timer switch — and a step-by-step guide to installation!
How to Fix a Hum in a Phone Line
Jim asks, "I have a loud hum in our telephone line. The phone company says it’s inside the house. How can I find the cause of the problem?"
There are a number of things that can cause humming or static in a phone line. Read more to find out how to isolate and repair the problem.
There are a number of things that can cause humming or static in a phone line. Read more to find out how to isolate and repair the problem.
Tips on Where and How to Install a Bathroom Vent Fan
Steve asks, “Is it better to install a bathroom vent fan over the shower or the middle of the room?” If your fan is rated for it, over the shower is the best location for a bathroom vent fan.