How to Wires is all about the tools and techniques for managing electricity in a DIY project.
Why Is My Light Flickering? (And What to Do About It)
Your light is flickering. Before you call an electrician, an exorcist, or your landlord — here’s what it actually means and how to fix it yourself.
Why Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping: Your Electrical Panel Is Smarter Than You Think
Your breaker keeps tripping because something’s wrong. Here’s why it’s actually protecting you, how to diagnose the problem, and when to call a professional.
How to Read an Electrical Panel: Your House’s Electrical Nervous System Explained
Intimidated by your breaker box? Here’s what every homeowner should know: what those switches do, why your house has them, and when to call an electrician—explained in plain English.
GFCI & AFCI Outlets Explained
Those push-button outlets? GFCI and AFCI protect you from shock and fires. Here’s what they do, where you need them, and why they matter.
How to Use a Voltage Tester
Learn how to use a voltage tester safely and correctly. Step-by-step instructions for non-contact voltage testers, electrical safety tips, and homeowner best practices.
How to Use a Voltmeter or Multimeter Safely
Learn how to use a voltmeter safely to test outlets, batteries, and household wiring. A beginner-friendly DIY guide to measuring voltage with confidence.
How to Work with Electricity
Learn how to work with household electricity safely. A complete beginner’s guide to electrical safety, voltage testers, tools, and when to call a licensed electrician.
How to Replace a Circuit Breaker
Learn how to safely replace a circuit breaker with our step-by-step DIY guide. Tips for GE, Square D, Siemens & Eaton panels. Save money and stay safe!
How to Tell if an Extension Cord is Bad (and When to Replace It)
You plug your groovy 90’s boom box into the extension cord, but it doesn’t work. Is it the boom box power cord, the extension cord, or the boom box itself?
How to Strip a Wire Safely and Correctly
Stripping a wire means removing a section of the insulating plastic cover to expose the electrical conductor underneath. Here’s how to do it.
Wire Nuts Made Simple: Connect Wires the Right Way
Learn how to use wire nuts safely and easily with this step-by-step DIY guide—connect wires like a pro without mistakes.