Smart Home

Everything you need to know about the world of smart home automation and home technology.

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    10 Ways to Filter Water

    Whether for an emergency kit, a home system or an on-the-go solution, here are the easiest and best ways to...


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    How to Solder Wires

    Here's is how to solder wires to achieve a durable and long-lasting connection.


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    Homeowner’s Guide to Electrical Grounding and How It Works

    You know electrical grounding is important. What does it actually do?


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    How To Repair the TV Remote

    Is your TV remote not responding properly? Here's how to restore your remote to like-new condition.


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    7 Types of Water Shutoff Valves

    A plumbing system needs a main shutoff valve as well as valves for branch lines and fixtures. Here's a rundown...


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    How a Home Energy Audit Can Save You Money

    A home energy audit can help you identify where you are losing energy and what you can do to stop...


    The 20 Best Men’s Gifts on Amazon That’ll Arrive in No Time

    Have a guy who's difficult to shop for? These men's gifts on Amazon will get a five-star rating from your...


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    How Do Septic Tanks Work?

    Just knowing the ins and outs of a septic system can save you a lot of money in the long...

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    How to Clean a TV Screen

    Fingerprints on your TV? It's easy to clean a TV screen so it's crystal clear without causing any damage.


    How to Use a Surge Protector for Electronic Devices

    Learn how to use surge protectors for any electronic device, whether it's a digital clock, a computer, a dishwasher or...


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    When Was Air Conditioning Invented?

    For many of us, air conditioning is essential to cool off in summer heat. But where did air conditioning come...


    Lasko Tower Fan: Best Smart Choice for Your Smart Home (We Tried It!)

    A new smart fan that can be controlled through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or an app? The Lasko fan tower...


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    Does a Dehumidifier Cool a Room?

    It's hot outside! Will a dehumidifier cool you down? An expert gives us the deets on dehumidifiers.


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    What Does the Ban on Incandescent Light Bulbs Mean for You?

    Due to new government rules that went into effect on Aug. 1, retailers can no longer sell incandescent bulbs. You...


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    Drawing Your Own Electrical Plans

    Electrical plans are a roadmap to project success. And, yes — you can draw your own! Here's what you need...


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    Romex Wiring 101: Everything You Need to Know About Romex Wire

    Wondering where to use Romex cable in your home? How about where you can't? We've got the details below.


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    What To Know About Electrical Transformer Boxes In Your Yard

    Those green metal boxes hiding in plain sight are a lot more important (and interesting!) than you might think.

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    How an Electrical System Works

    If your home is grid-connected, your electric power comes from far away. Here's how it gets from the generator to...


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    15 Amp vs. 20 Amp Outlets: What’s the Difference?

    Outlets and receptacles. What's the difference? Which one goes where? Our expert is here to clear up the confusion.


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    What Can You Do About a Noisy Air Conditioner?

    You don't have to choose between running the AC and being able to hear yourself think.


    13 Home Automation Ideas

    Home automation makes life easier and safer. From pre-heating the oven to monitoring for security threats, you get convenience and...


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    Expert-Approved Tips for Wiring a Subpanel

    When you run out of space in your service panel, a subpanel is the best solution. Use these tips from...


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    What’s the Difference Between a Surge Protector and a Power Strip?

    Surge protectors and power strips look alike, but they have different functions. Here's how to tell what's what.

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    Where Is a Tamper Resistant Receptacle Outlet Required?

    Here's how you can easily protect small children, and everyone else, from electrical shocks, burns or electrocution.


    Best Whole House Fans for Energy-Efficient Cooling

    Here’s  how to choose the best whole house fan. Not only can these helpful ventilation systems...


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    Homeowner’s Guide to an AC Fuse Box

    Fuse boxes were the precursors to modern circuit breaker panels and are largely obsolete. But some large appliances are still...


    Here’s How to Convert Your Regular Mattress Into a Smart Bed

    How much do you want to invest in a good night’s sleep?


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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.


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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...