Electrical Planning

Prepare for your next electrical project by discovering our planning ideas & tips.

A surge protector with cord plugged in.

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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.
Close-up on an electrician fixing an electrical outlet and measuring the voltage using a multimeter

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.
S22 E13: Heath Eastman teaches Kevin O'Connor about labeling a circuit breaker panel
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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.
S22 E9; Heath Eastman discusses backup generators
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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.
Using a portable power station to power a fridge in a blackout.

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.
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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.
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Powering the Essentials | 2019 Idea House

The TOH 2019 Idea House is a whole lot of house, clocking in at 5,450 square feet of living space. In the event of a power outage, it would be cost-prohibitive to generate power throughout the home.
an image of an electrical panel in a home

Inside Your Home’s Electrical Service Panel

Learn all about your home’s power distribution center in this helpful guide on home electrical service panels.
A hand turning the dial on a light dimmer switch.

How To Install a Dimmer Switch

Installing a dimmer switch is one of the easiest DIY electrical projects you can do. Read these steps on how to install one in your home.
S40 E8: Jeff Sweenor gives a lesson in framing to accomodate hinges, valves, and fixtures
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How to Prep Framing Studs for Hinges, Valves and Fixtures | Generation NEXT

Clearly labeling the locations of hinges, valves, fixtures, and studs for subcontractors is an essential step to keep construction efficient.
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How To Block Behind Walls for Cabinets and Fixtures

Wall blocks provide support to cabinets and other heavy items. Read our step-by-step guide to learn how to correctly block behind walls.
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Best Uses for an Electric Tankless Water Heater: A Guide

An electric tankless water heater can save you space, heat on demand, and reduce the risk of water damage. Read more about these devices in our guide.
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The Importance of Surge Protection

Ask This Old House master electrician Scott Caron demonstrates how surge protection safeguards a home’s appliances and electronics.
Two men looking at USB outlets.
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How To Choose The Perfect USB Outlet for Your Home

Electrician Scott Caron walks through the best options when it comes to installing useful USB wall outlets in your home.
Diagram of the electrical wiring of a house.

From the Ground Up: Electrical Wiring

Set up an electrical system for maximum safety and convenience now and in the future.
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Backup Power

When the electricity goes out, standby generators can keep your household running. This article explores the main types of backup power.
Electrician installing a ceiling light.

How to Find and Hire an Electrician

Here’s how to find an electrician who can handle your next project and what you can expect to pay for their services.
Two hanging lights with modern wiring

How To Modernize Your Home's Wiring for Comfort and Value

Ensuring your home can handle emerging technologies keeps it comfortable for you and marketable if you decide to sell.