Churning with voltage and resembling an explosion at the wire factory, the breaker panel exudes mystique. But it's just a big switch, filled with other smaller ­switches, which lead to the switches ...

Q: Several weeks ago, I read your column about installing electrical wiring. I’m curious about circuit breakers. What is the primary purpose of circuit breakers? Are there different types of breakers?

A 240-volt service powers heavy-duty appliances like ovens, air conditioners, water heaters and electric dryers. If something goes wrong in that panel, it may cause those systems to fail, damage the ...

Kelly has over 10 years of experience writing about home design and improvement for many prominent publications. She also spent several years working at a tech startup for an interior design game ...

Brings unprecedented visibility into power consumption—and the ability to control it. Almost essential if you have a backup battery. 32-circuit limit means large homes won’t have perfect visibility.

Always ensure adequate workspace, lighting, and proper tools before accessing electrical panels to minimize hazards. Inspect breakers for signs of damage, arcing, or water ingress, and verify their ...

Why are people scared of fuses? Many people think that fuses are unsafe, but this couldn't be further from the truth. A properly installed fuse is just as safe as a circuit breaker, but there are many ...

When the lights cut out, the last place you want to be is on your hands and knees in the dark, feeling around for a ...