Electrical

Let there be—well, you know how the saying goes. Electricity is the undercurrent of our home, powering our appliances and lighting our hallways. Most of us are fine left in the dark regarding the inner workings of electrical wiring and circuit breakers…until you’re, quite literally, in the dark. Use our expert guidance to help identify the wires behind your wall, learn how to protect your home’s electrical system, and source a list of professional electricians you can call when you’re frazzled.

man replaces light bulb in pendant light fixture
Photo: Rawpixel.com / Adobe Stock
man replaces light bulb in pendant light fixture
Photo: Rawpixel.com / Adobe Stock
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From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Biege home exterior with driveway
Lydia Schapiro
•
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
Electrical subpanels allow you to use appliances and electronics safely. This cost guide explains the important factors to consider when installing a subpanel.
Steel pipe electric outlet on cement wall
Mariel Loveland
•
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
Most homeowners only pay a couple of hundred dollars to install an outlet in an unfinished basement, but some factors drive up the price. Plan your project with this cost estimate.
Young man setting up a smart thermostat at home
Christopher Murray
•
Aug 19, 2024
Aug 19, 2024
The cost to install a C-wire ranges based on materials and labor, but only takes an hour or two. Here’s a guide on the project costs to expect.
A person opening a circuit breaker
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jun 26, 2024
Jun 26, 2024
50-amp breakers provide electrical power for household appliances. Our guide will show you how to choose the correct 50-amp wire size.
A woman standing in front of an electrical panel
Deane Biermeier
•
Jan 4, 2024
Jan 4, 2024
Discover how to upgrade your electrical panel for added convenience and to help increase the safety of the electrical system in your home.
Electric Meter
Alison Kasch
•
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
Looking to size up your electrical system to cover higher usage and improve efficiency? Use this guide to see the cost to upgrade an electrical panel.
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Gemma Johnstone  •  Sep 24, 2024
What is an Electrical Emergency? How To Handle To Protect Your Home
Knowing what an electrical emergency is in your home helps you take speedy and appropriate action to keep your family safe and get your power back on.
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Jacqueline DeMarco  •  Sep 23, 2024
What’s the Best Roof Pitch for Solar Panels?
Are you considering adding solar panels to your home’s roof? Learn how to find the best roof pitch for solar panels.
roof with solar panels on sunny day
Audrey Bruno  •  Sep 6, 2024
Who Can Remove Solar Panels From Your Roof?
Who can remove solar panels from roofs? The good news is that there are two types of pros that can handle a job like this—it’s up to you who you hire.
solar panels installed on green roof
Jacqueline DeMarco  •  Sep 5, 2024
Do Solar Panels Damage Your Roof?
Do solar panels damage roofs? We’re breaking down the different ways that damage can occur post-installation and how to avoid issues.
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René Bennett  •  Sep 3, 2024
Solar Panels ROI: Are Solar Panels Worth It?
Installing solar panels helps you save on energy bills while adding some value to your home. Here’s a look at what makes solar panels attractive to buyers.
blue wall with white plug in outlet
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Aug 26, 2024
How to Wire an Outlet From Another Outlet in 9 Steps
Adding an outlet to your home can be as straightforward as connecting to an existing circuit. Learn how to wire an outlet from another outlet in this advanced-level DIY guide.
A house roof with solar panels
Gillian Beckett  •  Aug 23, 2024
How Much Does Solar Panel Installation Cost? [2024 Data]
Solar panel costs vary based on the system size, panel type, and wattage you need. Learn about solar panel installation costs, so you can budget with ease.
A person installing a new wall switch
Chris Middleton  •  Aug 22, 2024
A Guide to Wire Nut Sizes
Wire nuts are used to connect two or more electrical wires. Our guide explains what the different wire nut sizes and colors mean, and when to use each.
Mint green toaster plugged into outlet on kitchen countertop
Breyden Kellam  •  Aug 21, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Install an Outlet? [2024 Data]
The average cost to install an electrical outlet is $133 to $296 each. This guide explains what factors impact the total cost of installing an outlet.
Woman fixing light switch
Becca Lewis  •  Aug 21, 2024
How to Wire an Outlet Switch Combo Like a Pro
Learn how to wire an outlet switch combo receptacle in various ways to adapt an existing wired location for several applications.
Steel pipe electric outlet on cement wall
Mariel Loveland  •  Aug 21, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Install an Outlet in an Unfinished Basement?
Most homeowners only pay a couple of hundred dollars to install an outlet in an unfinished basement, but some factors drive up the price. Plan your project with this cost estimate.
A woman doing her laundry
Breyden Kellam  •  Aug 21, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Run Electric from the Road to Your House? [2024 Data]
Before you hire a licensed electrical contractor, you should learn the cost to run electric from the road to your house so you can budget for the project.