While standard receptacles typically use three wires -- hot, neutral and ground -- you'll occasionally find 2-prong outlets in older homes. Since this type of outlet lacks a ground connection, the ...

Lauren is a writer and architectural designer living and working in Brooklyn, NY. In addition to being a writer at Forbes, she works as a freelance architectural designer specializing in residential ...

Turning your current living space into a smart home can be complicated and expensive, but things are changing. We are starting to see accessories like the Belkin Wemo Switch and Phillips Hue lights, ...

Chance are you know about smart outlets and outlets with integrated USB ports, but you might be surprised at how many different outlets you can buy and install in your home. Of course, they’re all ...

Sarah Mitroff has worn many hats at CNET, including Senior Mobile Editor and Managing Editor of Health and Wellness. Currently, she is a freelance editor. Throughout her career, she's written about ...

When you purchase a home, you may notice large boxes covering the outdoor electrical outlets. This is a weather-resistant receptacle outlet box, and it's one of the most common electrical outlets ...