
Dimmers reduce the amount of electricity your lights use when set below full brightness, which over time lowers energy consumption and can reduce your electric bill.
Replacing an existing light switch with a dimmer is a straightforward job many homeowners can handle. Follow the steps below—especially Step 1—to ensure a safe, clean installation. Dimmers are available at hardware stores in a variety of styles and price ranges. Read the installation instructions and match the dimmer type to your wiring before you buy.
STEP 1: Locate and turn off the fuse or circuit breaker that controls the light switch you are replacing.
If the breakers or fuses aren’t labeled, identify the correct one by turning the switch on and then turning off breakers or fuses one at a time. When the light goes off, that’s the correct circuit—leave it off while you work and make sure the others are on. Note: if you accidentally reset other breakers, check digital clocks or appliances that might need reprogramming.
STEP 2: Remove the wall plate and pull the switch from the wall.
Remove the two screws holding the cover plate, then remove the screws that secure the switch to the electrical box. Gently pull the switch out so you can access the wire terminals and the wires inside the box.
Convert an Underused Basement into a Functional Retreat
You go downstairs to grab something from storage and find yourself stepping around boxes left unopened for years. The light is dim and the air is cooler than the rest of the house. Though it counts as square footage you own, it rarely feels like usable living space. Many basements sit in that awkward place: … Read more
GMC Hummer EV: 1,000-HP Off-Road Beast Unleashed
If I tried to list every feature I’d want in the ideal off-road vehicle, I still wouldn’t cover what the new GMC Hummer EV brings. It’s an astonishing machine—part luxury SUV, part high-tech trail rig—packed with capabilities that redefine expectations for an electric truck. Table Of Contents 1,000 Horsepower Off-Road Abilities Grand Interior I first … Read more
Why We’ll Be Watching HGTV’d: The Network’s New Must-See Shift
In a few weeks, HGTV will premiere a new series titled “HGTV’d.” The concept is exciting: HGTV hosts will travel across the country—rolling up in a large, branded 18-wheeler—to surprise homeowners with on-the-spot makeovers. Home makeover programs are a familiar part of television, but this show stands out for its spontaneous approach and for bringing … Read more
Why Every Family Needs a Fire Drill Plan
Many people link home fires in winter with the holiday season — candles left unattended, Christmas trees tipping over, decorative lights shorting out, and overloaded outlets sparking. But the risk extends beyond holidays: cold months drive increased use of heat sources and keep people indoors, creating conditions that make fires more likely and more dangerous. … Read more
Weatherize Windows with Silicone Caulk: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that temperatures have dropped, it’s time to weatherproof your windows to keep heat in and cold drafts out. We noticed a draft around one window and, on closer inspection, found that the existing weatherstripping was cracked and pulling away. That’s an easy problem to fix with silicone caulk. Here’s how we handled it. Start … Read more
Cut the Cord: How to Ditch Cable and Switch to Streaming
We had been cable subscribers for years. We experimented with DirecTV for a couple of years but returned to Time Warner for its convenience and reliability. After our recent move, we decided to start fresh: we cut the cord and haven’t looked back. So far, ditching cable has been a smart decision. Here’s what we … Read more
Moxie Showerhead & Speaker: Live Concert Experience in Your Shower
KOHLER’s Moxie Showerhead + Wireless Speaker brings audio into the shower in a polished, practical way. Combining a fully functioning showerhead with a detachable Bluetooth speaker, the Moxie delivers clear sound for music, podcasts, audiobooks, and news while also meeting everyday shower needs. The system is designed to integrate seamlessly into the bathroom and to … Read more
Top Door Features to Check When Replacing Your Door
Replacing a door is more than a cosmetic upgrade — it’s an investment in your home’s security, insulation, and longevity. Many homeowners choose doors mainly for looks or price, but the features you select determine long-term performance, safety, and energy efficiency. A poorly specified replacement can result in a door that looks right but provides … Read more
Bathrooms and Decks Lead NARI’s 2011 Remodeling Trends
Although economic uncertainty has forced many homeowners to postpone large-scale renovations, remodeling activity has not stopped entirely. A recent poll of leading builders and developers conducted by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) highlights the projects likely to gain traction in the coming year. The overall pattern is clear: homeowners are prioritizing smaller, … Read more