A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a type of electrical outlet that should be installed in certain areas of every home. This outlet looks similar to a traditional outlet, but has two additional buttons in the middle of the unit which should read “test” and “reset”. Usually installed near potentially wet locations, including bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and outdoors, GFCI outlets can prevent electrocution and death, as well as some electrical fires.

Many homeowners who are willing to do the work of changing a switch or replacing that old ceiling fan do not do the work for fear of getting shocked. It is much easier to follow protocols to avoid getting shocked when working with home electric than it is to do the actual work of those electrical projects needing done.

First and foremost is to identify the correct fuse or breaker at the service panel that disconnects the power to the circuit being worked on. Second is to not only shut off the power to the circuit but post a written notice on the service panel that the power is off because it is being worked on.

OK, so you went to Home Depot and picked up a nice new ceiling light fixture. This could be a chandelier, a ceiling fan, a flush mount, a semi-flush mount, or even a sconce. You turned off the power (you did turn off the power, right?) and delicately removed your crummy old fixture.

Let’s see here, there are now 3 wires coming from a box (some homes may only have 2 if your wiring is in metal conduit). Let’s look at the green or bare copper wire first …

Let’s face it, home remodeling projects rarely stay as small and easy as you think they’re going to be. More often than not the budget quickly increases once you start the project, and you’re faced with important decisions to make along the way. How you deal with these can determine how badly the job will impact your wallet. Here are seven time-tested and sure-fire methods to keep in mind when considering your next home improvement job.

Very often, people who are about to hire a local contractor will send the wrong messages before the project even begins. In doing so, they ensure that they will not be getting good value for their money. There are many mistakes that can be made, and each of them can cost a client dearly. By following the following common-sense guidelines, you can be sure that your contractor will give you the best value possible while maintaining a mutually beneficial relationship.