House and Components

A house is much more than just a collection of rooms. Here’s everything that goes into making your house a home.

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    Testing a Circuit Breaker Panel for 240-Volt Electrical Service

    Before you add a 240-volt appliance, you need to make sure you've got what it takes.


    The 6 Best Countertop Ice Makers That Beat the One in Your Freezer

    Chill out: If your freezer keeps leaving you on thin ice, a countertop ice maker may be just what you...



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    Should You Invest In Sheep Wool Insulation?

    If you have an insulation project, and you're dreading the itch of fiberglass, sheep wool may be for you. It's...


    How to Hang Pictures Without Nails

    If you rent and don't want to repair holes in the walls, hanging pictures can be tricky. Here's how to...


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    How to Hang a Picture

    Following these steps will make hanging a picture on your wall a breeze.


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    What To Know About Smart Home Wiring

    Smart home wiring keeps your smart devices in touch with your home's data center, and it feeds data-hungry appliances the...


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    Homeowner’s Guide to Smart Electrical Panels

    A fully electrified home needs an intelligent control center to manage energy usage and maximize savings. A smart panel can...

    What to Know About Electrical Conduit Wiring

    There may be times when you need to install some electrical conduit as part of your project. The following tips...


    8 Best Toilets to Upgrade Your Bathroom with a Worthy Throne

    The toilet is arguably the most important—and frequently used—fixture in your home. Here are our picks for the best toilets...


    FlexiSpot E7 Standing Desk Review: Pros, Cons & Is It Worth It?

    Create an ergonomically designed workspace with this premium FlexiSpot standing desk for less than the competition.


    We Tried the Songmics Clothes-Drying Rack, and It Fits More Than One Load at a Time

    The adjustable Songmics clothes-drying rack can handle heavy laundry loads, but it folds up flat.


    What Is a Disconnect Switch (aka Safety Switch) and Why They Are Important

    It's a good bet your home's electrical system has one or more disconnect switches. Here's what they are, what they...


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    What Is Overcurrent Protection?

    Overcurrent protection is one of the most important concepts in electrical safety. This is what you need to know.


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    Homeowner’s Guide to Sump Pump Battery Backups

    A sump pump installation should include a backup system for breakdowns and power outages. Learn the pros and cons of...


    We Found the Secret to Deep, Restful Sleep with the Helix Midnight Elite Mattress

    Give your bedroom—and your back—a luxurious upgrade with the Helix Midnight...


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    How To Put Out an Electrical Fire

    Learn how to extinguish an electrical fire — but know your limits and stay safe.

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    Where Is a GFCI Protected Outlet Required?

    Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection is an affordable way of safeguarding your loved ones from lethal electrical shock hazards.


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    What Is Mineral Wool Insulation?

    An old product with big advantages makes a comeback.


    The Best Gutter Guards for Your Home

    Make cleaning your gross gutters a thing of the past. Here's what you need to know about gutter guards.


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    Air Conditioning Wiring 101: What You Need To Know

    Want to save on electrician's fees and wire your new air conditioner or mini-split yourself? A master electrician explains how...


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    Septic Tank vs. Holding Tank: What to Know About Each

    A rural home or cabin isn't connected to a municipal wastewater system, so it needs a septic or holding tank....


    6 Best Window Air Conditioners to Cool Every Room

    Find the coolest deals on the best window air conditioners before it gets too hot. We have picks for every...

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    How to Install Siding

    Putting up siding on your own can be a challenge. We'll guide you through installing this classic board and batten...


    8 Ideas for Covering an Electrical Panel

    Don't let an ugly gray metal electrical panel ruin your decor! Check out these creative solutions for covering one in...


    Sunday Citizen Comforter Review: We Tried the All-in-One Bedding with a Hotel Feel

    Our bedding got a serious upgrade, thanks to the Sunday Citizen comforter.


    A Guide to Electrical Load Calculation

    If you're planning to increase your electrical load by adding a new major appliance, make sure your panel can handle...


    How to Use an Electrical Box Extender

    Don't put up with an unsafe, unsightly electrical box installation. You can easily fix the problem by installing an electrical...


    11 Unique Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Ideas

    A new look doesn't have to break the bank. Give your kitchen a quick, affordable makeover with these unique kitchen...