Electrical

DIY FAQs

Do all the sockets in my house need to be a GFI?

Only the first one in the series needs to be a GFI (ground fault...

I’m replacing a light switch. How do I know which wire should be attached to each screw on the new light switch?

If you are replacing an existing switch, make a diagram of how the wires were attached to the old switch before you remove them. Snap a picture with...

How does a voltage tester work?

A non-contact voltage tester measures the difference in electrostatic charge between the person holding the tester and the tip. If you hold it near...

Should I use the screw terminal or the holds in the back of the electrical outlet to attach the wires?

Technically, you can use either one. But wires “backstabbed” into these holes (as it is called) are more likely to fall out, which could start a...

The plugs in my outlet are very loose. Can this be fixed?

No, you should replace them … immediately. Loose contacts can lead to arcing, which can cause a...

My new light fixture is rated for 60W bulbs. Is it OK to use 75W bulbs if I want the room to be brighter?

No. This could cause a serious fire hazard, as the bulbs could get too hot and melt parts of the fixture and even catch on...

How can I tell if a socket or switch has a current?

The best way is with a voltage tester. If it blinks, then power is still flowing through the...

I need to replace a lightswitch in my house. What should I get?

You need to know if it's a single pole or a three-way. If the light can be controlled in more than one location, then it is a 3-way...

What is a ground fault (circuit) interrupter?

An electrical device that shuts off the power in case of a...

What do the numbers mean on electrical wire?

A wire marked 14/2 means that it's a 14-gauge wire and it contains two wires inside the insulated...

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