If in your house lamps and appliances are acting up -- mysteriously shutting off, then coming back on again for no reason, you need to investigate. It might be caused by a worn electrical outlet. It's a common problem and easy to remedy. First make sure the power's off, then remove the old receptacle. When you study the outlet and wiring, you may find wires are pushed into the outlet instead of being attached to the screws. To release, insert a small screwdriver into the slot next to the wire and press down. If the small metal tab between the screws is gone, it means each outlet works independently. One works by plugging in, and one is controlled by a switch. If necessary, simply break off the metal connector tabs with pliers. To match, just rewire exactly the same way. Replace the outlet, turn on the power and behold! Everything turns on and stays on. And that's the On The House Tip for today.