Electrical

Choosing a Dimmer

Note: For instructions on how to properly wire a light dimmer, please refer to the article on wiring a light switch.
 
Another easy home improvement project is to swap out a regular light switch for a dimmer.  Most dimmers are relatively inexpensive and will eventually pay for themselves in energy savings.  Not to [...]

The Basic Toolkit: The Best Screwdriver

It seems as though I use a screwdriver for every home improvement project.  Even when I paint, I use a screwdriver to remove the outlet covers.  But, what is the best screwdriver to include in a basic toolkit?
 
Well, the truth is that there is no best screwdriver.  In fact, I think you [...]

The Basic Toolkit: Choosing the Right Pliers

 

 
I never really thought about it until now, but there are so many different types of pliers.  Here is a rundown of some of the more common types:
 
Tongue and Groove Pliers (the first pair pictured)- These pliers have an adjustable joint that allows the pliers to be resized for various applications.  [...]

How to Install a Programmable Thermostat

Okay- what costs about $50, is easy to  install, and pays for itself in energy savings?  Well, I guess a dozen compact fluorescent light bulbs, a couple of programmable light timers, and some window tinting all fit the bill.  However, I'm talking about a programmable thermostat.
 

This is something that you [...]

What is a GFCI?

Most of the information in this article comes from the US Consumer Products Safety Commission's Website.
GFCI 
A "GFCI" is a ground fault circuit interrupter. A ground fault circuit interrrupter is an inexpensive electrical device that, if installed in household branch circuits, could prevent over two-thirds of the approximately 300 electrocutions still occurring each year in and [...]