Daniel Stoescu
Master Electrician
wikiHow's Editorial Process wikiHow partners with over 1000+ experts from a wide range of fields to ensure our content is accurate and based on well-established research and testimony. Content Managers conduct interviews and work closely with each expert to review information, answer reader questions, and add credible advice. Learn more about our editorial process and why millions of readers trust wikiHow.
Co-authored Articles (38)
How to
Wire a 220V Outlet
While most NEMA outlets transfer 110 volts, larger appliances like dryers, stoves, and air conditioners require more power and use a two-phase 220-volt outlet or three-phase 200-volt outlet. If you don’t already have a...
How to
Replace an Led Recessed Light Bulb
Changing a light bulb is easy and LED lights are no exception! If you've got recessed lighting, you may be wondering if you can replace the bulb yourself. The answer is yes—you don't need to call an electrician. Most r...
How to Hook up a Generator to Your House: Installation, Safety, & More
Be prepared for anything with our comprehensive guide to DIY generator hookupLet’s face it, power outages are inconvenient and stressful. Thankfully, portable generators can provide emergency electrical power to a home...
How to
Calculate Wattage
There is a very simple calculation equation for computing watt usage for an electronic device. All you need to know is the number of amperes (amps) and the number of volts for the device. Understanding watts is important...
How to
Change a Light Bulb
Changing a light bulb sounds like an easy process, and sometimes it is. However, there are important safety measures to keep in mind. Sometimes, you will need to replace a light bulb that is trickier. For example, perhap...
How to
Test a Capacitor
Capacitors are voltage storage devices used in electronic circuits, such as those found in heating and air conditioning fan motors and compressors. Capacitors come in 2 main types: electrolytic, which are used with vacuu...
How to
Test Fluorescent Bulbs
A flickering or dead fluorescent bulb can be a nuisance and it may be time to replace it. Before going out to purchase a new bulb, ensure the bulb is the main problem. By checking for surface-level issues, cleaning the p...
How to Calibrate, Use, and Read an Ohmmeter
Measure resistance & check the continuity of a circuit accuratelyAn ohmmeter is an electronic device that measures resistance in an electronic component or circuit. It works by using 2 probes to send a current through th...
How to
Install a Satellite Dish
Rather if you have Dish, AT&T, or cable and you are planning on getting satellite service for your home, you don't need to call a professional installer. Even if you don't have much construction experience, you can set u...
How to
Fit Downlights
Downlights are recessed lighting features that illuminate a large area without being too bright. If you want to install downlights in your home, you can easily install them yourself with a few tools. Start by finding an ...
How to
Make a Light Bulb
A light bulb is made when metal filament is heated to the point at which the wire glows. The most well-known type of light bulb is the incandescent light bulb, which is the version used in most homes. Use these steps for...
How to
Check a Start Capacitor
Start capacitors are used in many home appliances, like washers, refrigerators, or air conditioners. If your appliances are humming but not starting or performing correctly, check the capacitor to see if it’s working p...
How to
Install a Residential Telephone Jack
A step-by-step guide to installing and replacing home phone jacksYou may want to install a new telephone jack in your home if your old one isn’t working, or if your phone lines aren’t accessible where you need them....
How to Wire a GFCI Receptacle
Protect your home and family by installing GFCI outlets GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) receptacles are mandatory in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor areas, and basements. Unlike traditional outlets, GFCI outlets mea...
How to
Change a Circular Fluorescent Light Bulb
Circular fluorescent light bulbs can be a great decorative feature, and changing the bulb is only slightly more challenging than a standard screw-in light bulb. It only takes a few minutes to switch bulbs if you use a ma...
How to
Replace Fluorescent Lighting
Changing a standard incandescent light bulb is, of course, the simplest of tasks. However, you may find yourself pausing when it comes time to replace a long, tube-style fluorescent lamp that is not immediately obvious h...
How to
Install a Stove With 220 Line
Provide power to a new outlet that will supply 220 to 240 volts for use by an electric range or other appliance such as a dryer. The steps below describe electrical service panels, wire colors and procedures commonly fo...
How to
Clean Electrical Contacts
Electrical contacts may get dirty with normal use, which can affect an item’s performance. You can’t clean an electrical contact with water, but there are some products that are safe and effective. Try cleaning the c...
How to
Fix a Squeaking Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans do a lot of work—over time, they can get weighed down by dust, and they start making annoying squeaking sounds when they’re turned on. Luckily, most squeaks can be easily dealt with through a little clea...
How to
Wire a Garbage Disposal to a Switch
Garbage disposals break down food washed into your sink to help prevent your pipes from clogging. If you don’t want to reach under your sink and plug in the disposal each time you use it, you can wire a switch above yo...
