This Old House's guide to electrical wiring and equipment, including how to ground and add electrical outlets, GFCI outlet upgrades, remote sensors, and more
Electrical: Featured Article
A cracked, loose, or (ouch!) shocking electrical receptacle is a candidate for replacement. But before you head out shopping for a new one, know what to ask for and how to connect everything safely… more
Q: We've been in our house for over a year and have not yet cleaned a large chandelier hanging almost 17 feet from the floor. The prospect of climbing a ladder to get up there is too intimidating. Is there any way to make this process easier and safer?
— Eileen & Roy Dymott, Ramona, Calif.
If your budget is tight, invest in infrastructure before cosmetics. You can add wainscoting or upgrade cabinetry later in the renovation, but it's much harder to go back and upgrade the wiring or plumbing.