Adding a single outlet can feel like a tiny upgrade, but the moment you touch that receptacle, a major breaker panel rule can ...

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?

Circuit breakers are used in nearly all electrical systems — from residential dwellings to electric utility facilities. We rely on them to protect our systems from damaging overcurrents and short ...

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 ...

Jeff Somers is a freelancer who has been writing about writing, books, personal finance, and home maintenance since 2012. When not writing, Jeff spends his free time fixing up his old house. He has ...