While standard receptacles typically use three wires -- hot, neutral and ground -- you'll occasionally find 2-prong outlets in older homes. Since this type of outlet lacks a ground connection, the ...

John Carlsen has more than a decade of experience testing and reviewing home tech products, with a major focus on smart home security. He earned his BS in journalism from Utah Valley University. In ...

Permanently Using Extension Cords As Fixed Wiring S. codes require fixed wiring to be installed in approved conduit, raceways ...

Are you building, renovating, or upgrading a house or a condo … or planning to someday? Don't forget the electric outlets and switches. These are small details, but they will contribute a great deal ...

And you can do it safely, in under an hour, and for less than $50. Credit... Supported by By Tim Heffernan Visuals by Clark Hodgin After 16 months, my home renovation is nearing a happy milestone: ...

Most electrical outlets are installed vertically, with one receptacle oriented above the other. But if you take a close look around your house, you'll probably find at least a couple mounted ...

We independently review everything we recommend. We may make money from the links on our site. Learn more› By Liam McCabe Liam McCabe still has a few power strips and extension cords that he started ...

The first U.S. detachable electric plug was patented by Harvey Hubbell II in 1904 and was among many of Hubbell's contributions to the field. But it would take a few decades before a standardized ...

Here's the thing about electrical work in your home. The temptation to save a few hundred bucks can be powerful, especially when online tutorials make everything look ridiculously simple. Problem is, ...