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

Explore top articles

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

Breyden Kellam

•

Mar 7, 2025

How Much Does It Cost to Run Electric from the Road to Your House? [2025 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.

Stacey L. Nash

•

Mar 4, 2025

How Much Does Aboveground Pool Electrical Installation Cost? [2025 Guide]

Keep pool-side dreams from getting short-circuited by being aware of pool electrical installation costs and how they can affect your overall budget.

Person looking at a lamp while holding a baby and cellphone

Melissa Graham

•

Mar 7, 2025

Here’s How to Tell if a Fuse Is Blown

A blown fuse or tripped circuit can create many electrical problems in your home. Learn how to tell if a fuse is blown, what caused it, and what to do about it.

closeup of electrical outlet in kitchen island with living room furniture in the background

Derek Rose

•

Mar 7, 2025

5 Reasons Your Outlet Sparks When Plugging in Appliances, Devices, and More

An outlet that sparks frequently is hazardous, and you should address it ASAP. Find out why an outlet sparks when plugging in your devices.

Man turning on a switch on an electrical panel

Breyden Kellam

•

Mar 7, 2025

Will Upgrading My Breaker Box Reduce My Electric Bill?

Wondering if a breaker box upgrade will reduce your electric bill? It very well could. Learn more in this informative guide.

A warm and cozy living room at night with a snowstorm outside

Tyler Lacoma

•

Mar 7, 2025

Is Aluminum Wiring in Your House Safe? What to Do If You Have It

If your home contains original aluminum wiring, you may want to take action to avoid danger. Learn why aluminum wires are hazardous and how you can address these issues safely.

Need help finding the right pro?

Share your project details and we’ll match you with up to 3 available pros near you.

View all articles

Suburban house with a concrete driveway and a flat roof

Amy Freeman • Mar 3, 2025

6 Questions to Ask About Installing Lightning Protection

Do you need to protect your home from lightning strikes? Here are the lightning protection questions you can expect an electrician to ask.

Ground fault interrupter electricity receptacle and wall plate.

Gemma Johnstone • Mar 3, 2025

What Is a GFCI Outlet and How Does It Work?

GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter. But what is a GFCI outlet, exactly? See how they lower the risk of shock or fire and where to use them.

A residential standby generator in the backyard of a house

Elisa Greenberg • Mar 3, 2025

How To Connect a Generator to Your House Without a Transfer Switch

Using a generator during a power outage is a lifesaver. Our guide will show you how to connect a generator to your house without a transfer switch.

Jill Harness • Mar 3, 2025

What Is the Standard Outlet and Light Switch Height?

Understand the standard outlet and light switch height in America and how Electricians and ADA guidelines vary in this regard.

Man turning on light switch in living room

Chris Middleton • Mar 3, 2025

How to Wire a Light Switch Safely

Learn a new skill and find out how to wire a light switch (safely) in your own home. This is one project that’s sure to light up your day.

Elisa Greenberg • Mar 3, 2025

How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]

The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.

Lawrence Bonk • Mar 3, 2025

Is It Okay to Have an Electrical Panel in a Bathroom? What You Need to Know

Is it acceptable to have an electrical panel in a bathroom? Keep reading to find out the best location for this essential feature.

Mizuki Hisaka • Mar 3, 2025

Downed Wire in Your Yard: Who to Call

Downed power lines are very dangerous. Stay safe by following these instructions if you ever encounter a downed power line.

A man plugging an electrical plug in an outlet

Deirdre Sullivan • Mar 3, 2025

Can One Bad Outlet Affect Others?

This guide will walk you through why electrical outlets go out and why one bad outlet can affect others in your home. Use our helpful guide to learn more.