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What Wire Connector is the Best? Wire Nut VS Wago TESTED

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  • Опубліковано 15 сер 2024
  • Are Wagos Safe? I OVERLOADED them, cooked them & pulled them out. Did they survive? Are Wire Nuts better? See the results & how I tested them to address all the debates & myths about them.
    WAGO starter pack: amzn.to/3tb0Dcd
    Ideal Wire Nuts: amzn.to/2NIc2AG
    Wire stripper: amzn.to/3ogIbvG
    This video, description and comments contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
    Disclaimer:
    Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. Silver Cymbal assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Silver Cymbal recommends safe practices when working on machines and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Silver Cymbal.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,7 тис.

  • @SilverCymbal
    @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +54

    Thanks for watching please LIKE & SUBSCRIBE: WAGO starter pack: amzn.to/3tb0Dcd Ideal Wirenuts: amzn.to/2NIc2AG

    • @Simcore999
      @Simcore999 3 роки тому +3

      The key difference, is the price right

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +3

      @@Simcore999 If the features matched yes, but the Wago gives a lot more and if you are buying 10,000 of them I guess it adds up but for repair and home work the difference is insignificant.

    • @Simcore999
      @Simcore999 3 роки тому +2

      @@SilverCymbal Yes, I would use the wago for medium length projects and for short term the other with souder for long term!

    • @Avaddon911
      @Avaddon911 3 роки тому +4

      @@SilverCymbal I don't see them replacing the wire nut for this reason alone.. They'll never be cheaper. But if somebody screwed up and ordered stranded wire they're awesome 😂

    • @mobeydick37
      @mobeydick37 3 роки тому +3

      When you pre-twisted the wire nut I believe a large amount of the current and heat was bypassing the wire nut joint. Try that same test without pre-twisting the wire like the instructions state please.

  • @davenag957
    @davenag957 3 роки тому +1389

    I've been an electrician for almost 4 decades. Industrial, commercial & residential. I'm just an old guy with an opinion, but I've seen a lot. I've opened many j boxes, troubleshot tons of circuit failures, and have seen hundreds of wire nut failures. Here's my opinion, do what you want with it. Due to the thermal expansion and contraction cycles present in electrical systems, over time wire nuts work their way loose and even fall off. I used to blame the previous electrician for not tightening the nuts, but eventually realized it's the wire nut at fault. A twisted splice inside a box is so rigid that it puts more strain on the connection, prohibiting this natural movement. The connection is the weak link, hence the failure point. I use the push in versions exclusively as I believe that the levers could be accidentally popped open when packing the j box. These spring loaded connectors don't loosen up, allow the conductors to swivel and flex easily within the box, eliminating the tension on the wires. You can feel the difference when packing the box too, so much easier, no stress on the conductors. These are not the same as the push in connections on cheap 50 cent receptacles, those are junk and should never be used under any circumstances! I have used WAGO products in the worst industrial chemical processing environments, along with residential applications, since 1994. They hold up better than anything else. I was extremely reluctant and skeptical early on as to their durability, as wire nuts were the gold standard in a trade with rigid beliefs of what works and what doesn't. Now I use them in every application that I can, with no hesitation whatsoever. I keep in touch with my customers, no callbacks ever. I am not an electrical engineer, I just play one in real life!

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +107

      I really appreciate you sharing this and I have also opened many boxes and had the same experience. It's a terrible feeling when a wirenut is sitting there loose or on the bottom of the box. Thanks for sharing your real life experience.

    • @jokerace8227
      @jokerace8227 3 роки тому +29

      Just dealing with my own personal electrical issues in 1960s built Idaho houses, I've discovered loose wire nuts in light fixtures and behind outlets. Never was sure if they're meant to be one time use devices, as in after the first twist on and back off they're garbage not to be used again, but they sure seem to be exactly that. I much prefer the Wago style connectors after being introduced to them by a master electrician friend. They grip solid and braided wires of various gauges way better than stupid ass wire nuts ever do for me, brand new or not.

    • @davemeise2192
      @davemeise2192 3 роки тому +17

      Thank you Dave Nag. Even though I'm not an electrician I have wired a few houses, wired a barn that we converted to a clubhouse, wired some additions on mobile homes, replaced breaker panels etc. I don't have a lot of experience but I have some and I have also discovered loose or fallen off wire nuts while doing electrical renovations. I always wondered why that was the case. Thank you for saying stuff no one else seems to be willing to talk about. I just learned about the WAGO connectors and I think they are awesome. If I have to do any electrical work in the future I'm going to use them.

    • @TonyGingrich
      @TonyGingrich 3 роки тому +19

      I'm tempted to disagree on the thermal expansion theory. But unlike others with stronger opinions, I've come to realize every electrician has worked their own careers full of unique experiences. What I have seen, very often, are nuts loosened due to vibrations--whether from their own current or from an external source. My opinion on thermal expansion is that it shouldn't be a problem for correctly sized wire nuts securing leads with appropriate slack (yet another reason to "always leave an extra loop"). My experience comes from only 5 years in a prior career as millwright--maintaining mostly high-voltage 3-phase circuits. Due to a near daily exchange of various motors to/from across the plant, wire nuts were our best option.
      That said, I personally do not like wire nuts. My opinion of them is not terribly different than of other splices. Except that the exposed bottoms are a fire risk, in my view. When I have no better option than to use nuts, I always wrap a strip of electrical tap around the bottoms to guard against foreign objects making their way inside.
      Across the board, and aside from that one personal issue with nuts... I have never really known a "perfect" splice. The best way to compare them is by their contexts. The correct splice for a given situation is always the best splice. Whenever possible and rational, I solder my splices.

    • @blitzblutz
      @blitzblutz 3 роки тому +1

      Thank you

  • @electricalron
    @electricalron 3 роки тому +192

    Licensed electrician here (31 years of experience), and I love the Wagos! They’re a little expensive compared to wire nuts but certainly have their place in my tool pouch.

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +8

      If I were an electrician, I think the extra $$ would be worth it for me to not have to use wire nuts. Still, you could always try to upcharge the customer by telling them they're getting the proper connectors in their home... LOL

    • @pedjagasevic251
      @pedjagasevic251 3 роки тому +4

      ....and faster to finish great job.

    • @ChristophPech
      @ChristophPech 3 роки тому +19

      Those wagos are 25 cents a piece. If this saves you 18 seconds of time it's already cheaper than free wirenuts would be.

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +1

      @@ChristophPech Absolutely.

    • @brianglade848
      @brianglade848 3 роки тому +6

      Deez nuts

  • @bjoernphotography
    @bjoernphotography 3 роки тому +492

    Wirenuts... that’s really nuts... Thankfully not allowed in Germany... Wago is really good stuff!

    • @juliushollmann9938
      @juliushollmann9938 3 роки тому +22

      If they are allowed in Germany they have to be good😂

    • @kleinfeicht
      @kleinfeicht 3 роки тому +45

      EU BE LIKE
      get away with cheap crao get real working producst...
      We don't build just wood houses we build for eternety

    • @FullMetalFox2
      @FullMetalFox2 3 роки тому +19

      @@juliushollmann9938 Well, WAGO is a german company XD

    • @IshIKoara
      @IshIKoara 3 роки тому +8

      @@juliushollmann9938 He said they are NOT allowed in Germany.

    • @DrKlausTrophobie
      @DrKlausTrophobie 3 роки тому +38

      @@IshIKoara You got it wrong: Wirenuts are not allowed here (in Germany).
      We used screw terminals in our junction boxes. They fell out of favor decades ago because spring loaded connectors (like Wago 273) proofed to be better.

  • @whitieinvermont
    @whitieinvermont 3 роки тому +193

    You have every tester known to man. I have tester envy.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +22

      I buy almost all of it used that tester has stickers on it for the jet propulsion lab so who knows what it's life was before.

    • @matthewnelson7759
      @matthewnelson7759 3 роки тому +10

      Don’t be testy now

  • @whiterooksme
    @whiterooksme 3 роки тому +318

    If you want to do more. It would be interesting to see how the Amazon/Ebay knockoffs fair against the Wagos.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +91

      Those things are scary! Good idea though for a video. I appreciate it.

    • @maxximumb
      @maxximumb 3 роки тому +17

      @@SilverCymbal I'd like to see that video too.

    • @gpadog
      @gpadog 3 роки тому +12

      @@SilverCymbal If you do that test , could you include Ideal, sold at HD, Lowes ? I had half a house rewired with the home depot ones before I started to see the "experts" recommend staying away.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +20

      @@gpadog I will check those ones, I really have not been a fan of any push in only connectors (wago or ideal) mostly because they are a pain to remove and they don't work with stranded well at all. The Wago 221 lever models shown are what makes them great. Easy connections, disconnections and work with mixed wire, solid stranded, etc. But I plan to run some tests on many other brands and models soon.

    • @Dansk55
      @Dansk55 3 роки тому +1

      This guy did the older style ones. ua-cam.com/video/bP0qHyVAymU/v-deo.html

  • @williamrucki9293
    @williamrucki9293 3 роки тому +38

    Been using Wago connectors for years in industrial environments and they are flawless. One great advantage is to successfully join wires of drastically different gauges. Some sensors and actuators have pigtails not terminal blocks. If the wiring standard from the control panel is #14 AWG and the sensor has a #20 AWG pigtail, twisting together is difficult but using a Wago makes life simple.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +2

      Thank you for sharing this, I didn't go into this much but its awesome to be able to connect such different sizes safely with these. I appreciate you sharing your actual real word experience, you can see many others are terrified of the unknown!

    • @johnh8546
      @johnh8546 2 роки тому +1

      I work for West Fraser as an industrial electrician and West Fraser does not allow the use of Wagos. They did for a while but ran into problems with them. Why might you ask. Saw dust it gets in everything and the Wagos do not hold up as well. They tend to get stuck on the wire.

    • @johnh8546
      @johnh8546 2 роки тому +1

      @@shawskeebennett1440 yes saw dust gets into wire nuts as well. The difference because wire nuts have no moving parts it doesn't seize them up the same.

    • @joedanero5360
      @joedanero5360 7 місяців тому +2

      @@johnh8546 It sounds like you should've been using lugs or something else better suited to the environment. This isn't a fault caused by the connector. It sounds like it was an individualized learning experience for a specific niche business.

  • @hertz42
    @hertz42 3 роки тому +188

    I gladly realized that Americans start using WAGOs instead of those horrible wire nuts. Appreciate it!
    Greetings from Germany!

    • @Ozymandias1975
      @Ozymandias1975 3 роки тому +13

      Amerikanische Elektro-Installation erinnert mich an die weltbekannte albanische Luxus-Automobilindustrie

    • @HolgerJakobs
      @HolgerJakobs 3 роки тому +22

      Even using just 110 volts causes the current to double compared to the 230 volts used in most countries. The US are so far behind in many respects. Using imperial units for instance.

    • @zihechen3111
      @zihechen3111 3 роки тому +4

      The chance electric sets fire up and kill u is much higher than it go through ur body and kill u. 110v is just a fking dumb idea usa is still believing

    • @AceBurn90
      @AceBurn90 3 роки тому +9

      US Americans measure in everything but the SI system.... I hope for your best that finally the first generation learns what a Scientific Unit with easy to convert factors is. But it will take 2 or maybe 3 generations until everyone understands the advantages and also applies them. Especially with temperatures you can already see a clear advantage. When I see the °F, I could puke.

    • @chrisb6866
      @chrisb6866 3 роки тому

      I call horseshit!.. Read my previous reply

  • @raymurphy9749
    @raymurphy9749 3 роки тому +101

    UK spark here, terminal block connector used to be the standard here but wagos have pretty much made the terminal block connectors obsolete

    • @db-bv5rs
      @db-bv5rs 3 роки тому +2

      Wrapped in some bodge tape😂

    • @planespeaking
      @planespeaking 3 роки тому +1

      They're a lot cheaper though and work just fine.

    • @db-bv5rs
      @db-bv5rs 3 роки тому +1

      @@planespeaking maybe cheaper but then they are screw terminals which loosen over time. Hard to fit 3 wires in a terminal and when you put bodge tape on it and you come back to add another cable you basically have to cut the wires because it’s so hard to take the tape off. And it is a bodge.

    • @ChristianWagner888
      @ChristianWagner888 2 місяці тому

      Same in Germany. Growing up, I only saw screw terminal connectors, but then Wagos became the standard a few decades ago.

  • @HoboAltros
    @HoboAltros 3 роки тому +58

    I just started using the Wagos. I attribute the resistance to people resisting change. Some people that have been around usually resist new technology and just bash it instead of giving it a chance. I work in the Technology field and see it everyday.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +5

      100% agree, I know without a doubt the most of the haters here have never used a Wago 221. I am NOT in favor of all push type connectors, not even Wagos push in only models. The 221/222 series are the best thing they came up with hands down.

    • @1pcfred
      @1pcfred 3 роки тому +8

      I attribute the resistance to less conductor contact area.

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +3

      Software engineer here. Agreed. Once I tried Wago, I dumped all of my wire nuts and Ideal push-ins where they belong... In the trash.

    • @1pcfred
      @1pcfred 3 роки тому

      @@HeWhoIsWhoHeIs and away we go!

    • @walterbrunswick
      @walterbrunswick 3 роки тому +1

      I'm already sick and tired of these (senile) people!
      We would still be living in mud houses with straw roofs and using washboards, if it was up to them smh

  • @Jobobaboss
    @Jobobaboss 3 роки тому +11

    Because of the Wago 221 connectors, it makes electrician work just a little bit more fun and easier. I truly love those connectors. I wouldn’t go for anything else because of their ease of use.
    Whenever I buy electrician stuff, if they have the 221’s, I always prefer those. And the 222 by the way is also a very good one, but they’re a little bit bulkier, So I prefer the 221’s always!

  • @Avaddon911
    @Avaddon911 3 роки тому +20

    Nothing beats the wago when you've got to join stranded wire with solid. I'd say that's the main advantage over a wire nut. Also much easier when you need to test. When adding a branch to an existing circuit you don't have to struggle with twisted up wire or cut and re strip. Not to mention all the hand twisting and tightening you won't have to do.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +3

      100% agree, every time I use these *and I have been for almost 10 years) I am still amazed at how great these are.

    • @casemodder89
      @casemodder89 3 роки тому

      There are even other kind of wagos for plain solid wires. Without lever. Just fw/rev turn the connector and pull the chosen wire at the same time to release or push it in to make the connection. Dont know if they're available for the murrican market in AWG.
      But on this side of the pond they're available in metric 0,75sq. mm - 10sq. mm
      Even smaller then the 221 but ofc can't take stranded wires. 2-3-5-8-16 holes available for the (over here) standard 0,75 - 2,5mm2 version. Dont know about the bigger ones but saw upto 3 hole ones in 6-10mm2 version.

  • @threenailshandyman
    @threenailshandyman 3 роки тому +41

    Been using the Wagos for a few years now. Absolutely love them. They're great when connecting wires above your head. Just easier for me to group the wires together. Also very convenient when the person before you cuts the wire in the junction box too short and it's difficult to access the wire

    • @HobbyOrganist
      @HobbyOrganist 2 роки тому +2

      You bet! and nothing worse than trying to get 3 or 4 twelve GA wires all lined up to wrestle a wire nut on!

    • @UltraGamma25
      @UltraGamma25 Рік тому

      ​@@HobbyOrganist This

    • @ppdan
      @ppdan 6 місяців тому +1

      And if you need to modify something you can just undo and redo everything without having to cut a single wire.
      tbh if you undo a wirenut the cleanest and best way is to cut off the heavily twisted part of the wire before using a wirenut on it again. After a few modifications your wires will become too short.

  • @smallengine
    @smallengine 3 роки тому +281

    This is reminding me of Project Farm, great video!!

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +78

      Now that is a compliment but he is a whole other level but maybe someday! Thanks again

    • @sprinterdiscovery
      @sprinterdiscovery 3 роки тому +5

      @@SilverCymbal You'll get there! You just need 1.3m more subs - just give it some time and more great videos like this! :-)

    • @RefurbishedBacon
      @RefurbishedBacon 3 роки тому +11

      Yep no joke this + project farm are my go to channels lately

    • @TheMattThompson
      @TheMattThompson 3 роки тому +7

      Collaboration time!

    • @smallengine
      @smallengine 3 роки тому +1

      @@TheMattThompson that would be cool!

  • @divechart4269
    @divechart4269 3 роки тому +68

    As an electrician of forty years I'm impressed with the Wagos after seeing this test. I would like to see the same test on non-Wago brand type connectors, such as the type that come with recessed light fixtures. They are stab-ins with no levers.

    • @ElkStirrinTheHoney
      @ElkStirrinTheHoney 3 роки тому +4

      Electrician of 16 years.. I fear WAGO's abilities with amperage draw, and maintaining pressure on the connection over time. The lever type WAGO's do seem to resolve this issue. But this test gave me a new found respect for WAGO's. I wonder if twisted wire diminishes the abilities of the WAGO. Great video though. I will be sharing it.

    • @im2yys4u81
      @im2yys4u81 3 роки тому +3

      I love Wagos. I'm through with push ins and wire nuts.

    • @ElkStirrinTheHoney
      @ElkStirrinTheHoney 3 роки тому +4

      @@im2yys4u81 push in's are also wago's.. they just aren't the lever type.

    • @ElkStirrinTheHoney
      @ElkStirrinTheHoney 3 роки тому +5

      My issue with wago's, is that it's not always possible to just add a wire, when needed. Like when you have a 2 port wago, and then need a 3 or 4 port wago. Now you've bought 2 wago's, when you would have been fine with 1 wirenut.

    • @im2yys4u81
      @im2yys4u81 3 роки тому +6

      @@ElkStirrinTheHoney I bought an assortment online. Came with 2's, 3's and 4's. Sooner or later you'll find a use for the 2 port. I understand what you're saying, but me personally I'd rather buy what I need. Worst case scenario you end up with some strays, but sooner or later you'll use them.

  • @BLKSG6
    @BLKSG6 3 роки тому +145

    at 3:00 wouldn’t a lot of current be passing through without ever reaching the wire nut, since the unsheathed wires start connecting below it? Why go so easy on the wire nut, I wanted to see it fry. :)

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +37

      I will be re-looking at that possibility. Maybe I did go too easy on the nut!

    • @nathandanner4030
      @nathandanner4030 3 роки тому +3

      I had a picture somewhere that is of a wirenut that got melted off a circuit where the plumber was running a "Mule Threader". The wires had melted in such a way that the wirenut was in series with the wire in the circuit. We don't know how long it was running that way before the breaker tripped.

    • @markstrim
      @markstrim 3 роки тому +29

      You twisted it so much before the wire nut it didn't need a wire nut!

    • @timsawyer7443
      @timsawyer7443 3 роки тому +9

      @@SilverCymbal so, first of all, @BLKSG6 was just making a valid point, and not being critical. Still, so many people would have been offended and gotten defensive, but you took it in stride as the suggestive comment that it was clearly meant to be. And it sounds like this might even become a followup video, and that I'd like to see!

    • @aaronaaron6424
      @aaronaaron6424 3 роки тому +6

      Yes, just a twist where the nut goes on and spread wires slightly apart below that. Would be interesting to see.

  • @oliverer3
    @oliverer3 3 роки тому +20

    I have a sneaking suspicion that most if not all people with complaints only have experience with knock-offs.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +4

      100% agree with you. The knockoffs are horrible.

    • @osgeld
      @osgeld 3 роки тому +4

      that and people can be pretty dumb, I had some guy fussing about them trying to jam 20awg stranded wire in some of the non levered connectors meant for 14awg romex "these things suck I will never buy them" sigh

    • @hermand
      @hermand 3 роки тому

      Especially the one swho think Wagos are weak. The amount of time I've caught myself with those spring loaded clips and "ouch" - once it's locked, they're going nowhere

  • @MrNeutross
    @MrNeutross 3 роки тому +75

    3:10 You're using uninsulated wire. When the're twisted like that and contacting so far down (wich wouldn't even be possible with insulated wires) a lot of currennt can flow through the contact point in the twist, completly circumventing the nut.

    • @toddravenholt9860
      @toddravenholt9860 2 роки тому +12

      Exactly what I came down to post. It's not a fair test.

    • @Quentyn73
      @Quentyn73 2 роки тому +2

      Yet, that would be an argument against the twist nut connection, no, or you're thinking that the twist cap will be able to withstand higher temps than the wago?

    • @MrNeutross
      @MrNeutross 2 роки тому +8

      @@Quentyn73 it's just not representative of how to nut would be used IRL. Copper should not be showing outside of the nut. Bare Copper only i side the nut.

    • @curtisbme
      @curtisbme 2 роки тому +4

      @@Quentyn73 All they are saying is that the nut would probably have gotten hotter that the 170 if the connection was only in the nut as it would have been if the wires were insulated. I'd guess the wago would still have been hotter but I'd assume the gap would have narrowed.
      Not that it matters for practice purposes as they both proved they can operate beyond their rating (for at least a little while).

    • @glasshalffull8625
      @glasshalffull8625 2 роки тому

      Excellent analysis!

  • @No-vm7go
    @No-vm7go 3 роки тому +21

    I recently purchased some of these WAGOs ( before I saw this video) and they’re great. I can’t see ever going back to wire nuts again. BTW, mine are being used on a 30 amp circuit for a 5Kw unit/garage heater.

    • @cmotdibbler4454
      @cmotdibbler4454 3 роки тому +5

      WAGO also make a 30A rated version for up to 6mm^^2 wire

  • @oliverduff681
    @oliverduff681 3 роки тому +2

    If you're REALLY worried, the slightly larger 221-6xx range are rated to 30A (UL) or 41A (IEC). That means that for the vast majority of domestic circuits you don't need to think twice.
    An assortment box of 221 series and 2273 (push wire) Wagos has pretty much replaced every other connector in my toolbox. I've got a couple of strips of connector block for emergencies, and crimps and heat-shrink for making joints in trunking, but for most domestic work (and a lot of commercial/light industrial) there's really no contest. They're also handy because I can get more useful work out of less skilled labourers - it's pretty much impossible to make a loose connection, so provided I can visually inspect their work before closing up then we can get much more done in a day.

  • @dubs3400
    @dubs3400 2 роки тому +4

    I’ve switched to these and have used them for several projects in my home. They are easy to use and give me a higher sense of security over wire nuts, as I too, have had issues with wires in wire nuts not getting properly twisted. Thanks for the video!

  • @andyburns
    @andyburns 3 роки тому +15

    I've spoken to people who *thought* the wago could come undone too easily, it turned out they were not opening the lever fully to insert the wire, they thought it only opened to about 45 degrees ...

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +1

      Wow! That is crazy! Yes in that situation the connection would not be good!

    • @fredeisele1895
      @fredeisele1895 3 роки тому +6

      The clear wago allows visual inspection, the wire nut does not.

    • @senoJSR
      @senoJSR 3 роки тому +7

      Morons that should be working at Amazon NOT doing electrical installation

  • @dandylawnandmaintenance4407
    @dandylawnandmaintenance4407 3 роки тому +14

    I have to admit when you posted these connectors in your other vid I thought hmmm time will tell. But after watching this very informational video I am sold. Congrats on the growth of your channel by the way. This could be the viral video haha.

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому

      I appreciate that thank you

    • @sonarun
      @sonarun 3 роки тому +1

      After watching Sparky Channel, he totally sold me on the Wagos and that's the only thing I use in my home.

    • @RealitaetsverlustTV
      @RealitaetsverlustTV 3 роки тому +2

      Time allready did tell. WAGO connectors have been used for decades all over the world especially in Europe.

    • @matekochkoch
      @matekochkoch 3 роки тому +1

      I use them since the late 80th

  • @DasIllu
    @DasIllu 3 роки тому +1

    Another german here.
    Just want to point out that the WAGOs with levers are usually used for temporary connections. Not that it is or isn't code but these are expensive in contrast to the regular ones.
    I worked for a company that was very reluctant to switch to push connectors. Oh boy, the stories of burning server rooms and what not. But for 20 years now, they are a staple in the field.
    We got them now almost everywhere. RCBOs, outlets, switches and whatnot. It made everything a lot safer and faster to build.
    All the oldschool connectors had the 3+ wire flaw. Any movement, vibration, thermal cycling could work screw terminal loose with 3+ wires in them. So in training we were told to tighten the screw, twist and work the wire and then tighten it again so that the wires would fall into a stable position.
    Well, some folks did't think it was important, or worked against the clock and got sloppy.
    What i wanna say is that i believe these connectors are more idiot proof. Should an idiot ever become an electrician? Hell no! Will there be idiot electricians? Yea, sadly. And there is also the kind that is like "what? 45 bucks/h, i do it myself, youtube and wikipedia is all i need"
    So if that at least contributes to families not burning due to stupidity, i'm down.
    Cheers.

  • @lgninjalo
    @lgninjalo 2 роки тому

    Master electrician here. I've long been a fan of pushin, levernut, and wire nut. I keep all three and they all have their place.
    I'm glad you did science on these. Now I have a video to show.
    I've done a lot of remodels and seen 20 or 30 year old wire nuts. Even the old tech holds up just fine. I also extensively use them on motors.
    In every single failure I've seen, it's been due to an improper connection being made. You have to pretwist. When you work the wire into the box, you change connection angles, and you can't tighten inside the box. I've seen, at minimum, dozens of failures specifically from this, and catastrophic failures from the resultant arcing.
    Moral if the story is the connector is only as good as the installer.

  • @lesterwatson8519
    @lesterwatson8519 2 роки тому +3

    Good video. The biggest problem I foresee with the wago connectors is the same as the problem I have seen with the back stab connection used on many receptacles and switches. The problem I have found over the years is that with circuits that have higher current flow and are cycled frequently the blades that hold the wire in theses type devices tend to weaken due to the heating and cooling effect of the use cycle. This heating and coiling effect apparently changes the molecular structure of the metal causing a lose of tension on the wire. I know, a lot of people say I am just and old school guy, but I say if it ain’t broke why change it. First I must say I have never used the back stab connectors in my 45 to 50 years as an electrician. I have changed a lot of receptacles and switches over the years however. I can honestly say I have never in all those years went back to a job I did to replace a switch or receptacle because of a loose connection. But if people choose to use them, it is good job security for electricians, but not me I am retired.

    • @ppdan
      @ppdan 6 місяців тому +1

      Do not compare crap backstab receptables with Wago products!

    • @ChristianWagner888
      @ChristianWagner888 2 місяці тому

      This is your theory, but has been refuted in practice. Wagos are not backstab connectors. The material and mechanism is quite different. They have been used in Germany for decades, and electricians do not have to go back to redo them. They are expected to last as long as the whole house wiring without the spring connectors loosening up, which would be beyond 50 years. Therefore, Wagos don't provide "good job security for electricians".

  • @brewer13210
    @brewer13210 2 роки тому +11

    One big mistake in this comparison: in the overload test, the Wago connector was carrying all of the current. For the wire nut, you pre-twisted the wires, and they were touching below the wire nut...thus current was being passed between the wires where they were in contact instead of all of the current passing through the wire nut. Otherwise, you would have likely seen higher temps at the wire nut during maximum overload.

    • @seanchinery
      @seanchinery 2 роки тому

      That was my first thought. He literally says he's going to hear shit if he doesn't twist them and then proceeds to twist to a degree that is not possible reducing the overall resistance.

    • @NickFrom1228
      @NickFrom1228 2 роки тому

      @Craig Dendy I took his statement to mean the amount of twisting he did was far more than a typical example. So, real world would be stripped insulation of 7/8" or so of a current carrying conductor twisted together and capped with the nut. In the video they guy took ground wires, which means unlimited conductor length (vs 7/8" stripped) which means more wire is in contact and not the same as the real world use. Instead of saying "instead of all of the current passing through the wire nut" he should have said "instead of all of the current passing through the conductor only under the wire nut"

    • @brewer13210
      @brewer13210 2 роки тому

      @Craig Dendy Sorry dude, these connectors are UL listed to UL 468C "Splicing Wire Connectors", the exact same standard used to certify wire nuts. The testing these go through is far more rigorous than the tests shown in this video, and no, they don't wear out over time.

  • @ChristianWagner888
    @ChristianWagner888 2 місяці тому +1

    Having seen WAGO connectors used in Germany for many decades, I have full confidence in them and wired my whole house using only Wago connectors. They are also more efficient to use and provide great time savings as well as flexibility when changing some connections. With a 20A circuit breaker, a 40A current would be disconnected by the circuit breaker within 30 seconds, according to a Schneider Time Current Curve data sheet. Thus, in real life, there will be no overload of 40A or 60A for 10 minutes while circuit breakers are functioning properly.
    Overloading 12AWG wiring for 10 minutes or more with 60A could cause serious problems with the electrical insulation of the wiring in the wall, which is rated at 60 to 90 degree Celsius. Thus, any circuits overloaded in such a way would have to be physically examined for damage and possibly changed. The Wagos would be the least of my concerns. Thankfully, circuit breakers don't usually fail in such a way, but I have seen people swap 20A circuit breakers for 40A or 60A in order to accommodate a high-powered appliance or an old style welding machine. Maybe this only happens in the Philippines...

  • @nousernamesworking
    @nousernamesworking 3 роки тому +1

    Controls guy here. Wagos are the shit. So much easier, much more wire flexibility, and less chance of a loose connection. Plus, people don't try to shove waaaay too many wires into them. I don't care what any sparky says; I will always prefer them over wire nuts. The only down side to wagos is the price.

  • @jasonjtg21
    @jasonjtg21 3 роки тому +3

    I used the wago today for the very first time. It was crazy easy to use and I love that I could see the wire to make sure it was all the way seated properly. I am a fan!!

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому

      They also have testing ports on them, so you can stick your multimeter probe right in and test for voltage without disconnecting. (Look for the port, you'll find it!) I hope someone told you about that.

  • @sumguyonabike8776
    @sumguyonabike8776 3 роки тому +26

    Dude 95% of the world use celsuis. Maybe add those number to your vids in future as well. 👍

  • @THESOHAILKHAN1992
    @THESOHAILKHAN1992 3 роки тому

    I am an electrical enthusiast from Pakistan.
    Never knew a comment on American channel will make him shoot a whole video.
    You guys are great this answers all my questions.

    • @THESOHAILKHAN1992
      @THESOHAILKHAN1992 3 роки тому +1

      I never thought it will make it above 10amps.
      This thing is strong.
      Never seen one here.

  • @robeigner4390
    @robeigner4390 3 роки тому +1

    Saw a different video on Wagos and bought a box of 3-conductors for a simple job I was doing (not an electrician). Twisting wires and screwing wire nuts on has always been a pain. The Wagos are easy to use and even let me make a simple change without turning off power (ok, electricians, I know you do this too so don't complain). I was moving a light switch but needed the light to work while I was adding the wire so I used the Wago as a temporary switch. When the other wires had been installed I was able to easily add the second Wago and move the wires around without flipping the breaker (yes, I added a blank cover plate so I could get to the splice box--1906 house with lath and plaster so not easy to simply cut through the drywall). I will be adding more multi-conductor Wagos to my toolbox.

  • @lazerusmfh
    @lazerusmfh 3 роки тому +7

    I used wagos for one main reason. They’re rated for 20 amps, and they use a spring to hold the connection constant through temperature and humidity changes.
    I don’t worry about a wire slipping out of a wago, it’s positively locked when the wire is in place proper
    I love them.

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +1

      Makes you wonder if the jackass that claims to be able to "flick them off with his finger" is either just a loudmouthed jackass, or doesn't know how to connect a wire. I'm sure they're VERY easy to flick off if it fails to make a connection. LOL

  • @Oldbutschooled
    @Oldbutschooled 3 роки тому +21

    Great info...but would of liked to see pull test on the wire cap !

    • @Roxst4r17
      @Roxst4r17 2 роки тому

      My thoughts exactly that’s the only thing I wanted to know

    • @tpasco1995
      @tpasco1995 2 роки тому

      The wire nut, when applied correctly, should be fine for about 50-100 pounds, which is meaningless since you should never have wire supporting a load in the first place

  • @rubosrex7303
    @rubosrex7303 3 місяці тому

    European electrician here. We use Wago for everything. They are perfect if used within specifications. Most important thing is respecting the ratings... There are wagos rated for higher A if needed.. but generally you will be using 221 everywhere and be fine.
    Small tip: if you have a full box and are worried about the clamps opening when you close it, just wrap a bit of tape around them to avoid accidentally opening the clamps when pushing the wires in.

  • @mckinneyhunts
    @mckinneyhunts 3 роки тому +2

    Awesome video. I have a background in electronics and do all my own electrical work at my house. No offense to electricians, but I really enjoy the work because it's a nice change from my current (lol) desk job. I've used wirenuts and Wago connectors. Wagos are great when you are connecting a large number of wires, grounds etc. I think the key is to buy Wago and not the knockoffs. Why save a few bucks on an unknown product, especially for something critical like electrical work. I've never used any other brand. I also only use Ideal wirenuts. If I ever do a large renovation, kitchen for example, I'll most likely switch to all Wago. This video is awesome and you have a great kit of test tools. One followup - Don't use the crappy wirenuts that are included with light kits or ceiling fans. Most are garbage.

  • @jsnpressley
    @jsnpressley 3 роки тому +9

    I love Wago lever connectors. I discovered them about a year ago, and now it's the only thing I use. What I have noticed is that the clamps sometimes come up a little bit, so what I do is wrap the Wago with a 1/2" piece of color coordinated electrical tape (black tape for hot, white tape for neutral, green tape for ground)v to lock the clamps closed. I haven't had a single issue, and I've used probably over a hundred of them in my house. I definitely recommend them.

  • @jspriver
    @jspriver 3 роки тому +114

    Test 4: we set our test home on fire to see how the connectors held up...

    • @smccomas01
      @smccomas01 3 роки тому +18

      House burned down but the connector was still good lol

    • @Dmiller7239
      @Dmiller7239 3 роки тому +1

      LMAO 🤣

  • @gtpisti
    @gtpisti 3 роки тому +2

    Became a sparky in the UK many years ago but now work and live in Germany and must say,will never go back to connector blocks. These Wago‘s are so well engineered it‘s unreal!
    Great test by the way 👍🏻

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому

      Thank you very much, glad to hear your good experience and the kind words.

    • @cmotdibbler4454
      @cmotdibbler4454 3 роки тому

      I'd still take a "choc-bloc" over a wire nut through (Wago FTW through)

  • @gundelfish
    @gundelfish 3 роки тому +2

    Directly beforehand: I'm not connected anyhow to Wago, besides I'm German :-)
    Here in Germany we're using these kind of connectors for decades. I myself rennovated my house six years ago - all electrical connections are done with Wago: most with standard and whenever to connect to a flexibel wire with the ones seen in this video. I do not buy/use the cheap ones, because I want to still wake up in the morning...🤔
    By the way during the house renovation I found some of these (old) twisting connectors. I guess they are from the 70ths when this house was build. So, they are reliable, for sure, but the Wagos are much faster during installation and especially if one wants to change something...👨‍🔧

  • @cometor1
    @cometor1 3 роки тому +15

    Just seeing you pre twisting the wire nuts, makes me want to use the wago.

  • @christiansprojects-cgmanuf1426
    @christiansprojects-cgmanuf1426 3 роки тому +5

    We have been using these kind of connectors for decades here in Europe. I honestly couldn't imagine messing around with these wire nuts and having to twist the wires first. By the way: The series 221 connectors come in two sizes and ratings. The bigger ones are capable of taking up to 10 AWG wire and 32 Amps.

    • @hotratz69
      @hotratz69 Рік тому

      Only the in-experienced will pre-twist the wire for wire-nuts, Not at all necessary and not recommended by the manf.

  • @Sjef0194517
    @Sjef0194517 3 роки тому +1

    Love IT why you tested those two connectors now in the US. Wago connectors are already used like 10 years in the EU. those twist types are concidered museum pieces here in the Netherlands

    • @HenryLoenwind
      @HenryLoenwind 3 роки тому

      10 years? LOL. I first encountered them in '86...

  • @loganthesaint
    @loganthesaint 3 роки тому +2

    I’m going to keep using wire nuts because I’ve never had a problem.
    If it’s UL listed it’s all good.

    • @jeremiahrex
      @jeremiahrex 3 роки тому +1

      Your last sentence makes this the top comment. That testing is there for a reason and it works.

    • @loganthesaint
      @loganthesaint 3 роки тому

      @@jeremiahrex I’m actually pretty sure the WAGO’s are UL listed as well.
      I’ve just never had a problem with wire nuts, and I know what’s it like to work in a pancake box in some of the tightest areas. I’m sure everyone here knows what I’m talking about or been there and done it a hundred times.
      We all have different opinions.
      It’s the UL listing is all that matters... also local and state code. However I couldn’t think of a state that would ban the use or even a locality. In my case it’s personal with my state inspector, he doesn’t like them, I don’t use them.

  • @Mrstanleystevens
    @Mrstanleystevens 3 роки тому +27

    Well that answered every question I have. Great info as always!

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +4

      That's really the nicest compliment I can get, glad you like it.

  • @sfontyn
    @sfontyn 3 роки тому +56

    Good vid, I just have a single reservation, the cables were pretwisted well outside of the wire nut, at least 1”, to the point that the current between the wires flows without going much through the wire nut, wich make the contact area much bigger and dissipating the heat much better. Have you left the cables insulated out side the wirenut, as in real use, the outcome might’ve been different.

    • @jimyeats
      @jimyeats 3 роки тому +1

      Excellent point.

    • @DjDuncman
      @DjDuncman 3 роки тому

      Most people twisting wires (ground wires especially) aren't trying to make a twist that fits inside the nut perfectly. I agree that it's not exactly an apples to apples comparison, but it does seem realistic.

    • @Cautionary_Tale_Harris
      @Cautionary_Tale_Harris 3 роки тому +5

      Noticed that, too. ALL of the current in the Wago test had to go through the connector. Very impressive---I'll order some of these connectors now.

    • @DrewSoucy22
      @DrewSoucy22 3 роки тому +6

      @@DjDuncman Ground wires don't apply to what we're testing here, though. You want this test to be as if it's the live wire, so no -- it's actually not realistic.

    • @DjDuncman
      @DjDuncman 3 роки тому +1

      @@DrewSoucy22 It's the same gauge wire, so current flow/capacity is effectively the same and is limited by the wire gauge, not the twist. Any difference with ground wire vs an insulated wire is trivial at best. A properly twisted pair of wires doesn't need the wire nut for the circuit to function. The wire nut just ensures the wires don't untwist while also insulating the ends. Properly done, the wire nut isn't even part of the current path, while the Wago is part of the current path. Not realistic? Fine, it's realistic enough though.

  • @fury5988
    @fury5988 2 роки тому

    I see a lot of post from the electrician side of things, figured I would share my input on the low voltage side as an electronic engineer. Great test from what I have seen. I have watched a lot of other videos on the comparison and was appalled with some of the misleading things I have seen in other videos. I think one of the biggest things to note is that wire nuts will generally always work at a cooler temperature based on how they work. With the Wagos, you are creating a bus that all current needs to run through. In doing so you are creating a specific point where all the heat will be transferred to. With wire nuts, the wires themselves will be the electrical bus, thus not adding any additional resistance at the splice point. That being said, I am very much a low voltage technician and do not have to worry about excess heat like an electrician would have to. Because of this I do believe both types of connectors have their applications. For me wire nuts are the best bet when connecting up many low current draw devices to a single power supply (in excess of 5+ 20 gauge stranded conductors). When working on electrical outlets in my own home, I tend to use the Wago connectors for three way switches as it does have a cleaner look and tends to be more space efficient. Great video, and to anyone reading this, use what you like best as they both have their pro's and cons and are well engineered.

  • @robotmanx2009
    @robotmanx2009 2 роки тому

    Excellent that someone did this, thank you. I wish you wouldn’t have twisted the wires when doing the wire nut. With that the test would have been the same if the wire nut wasn’t there. Also literally no one twists wires like that, it’s always about 3/4” exposed and stuffed into the nut.

  • @christianjorgensen249
    @christianjorgensen249 3 роки тому +26

    LOL! Leave it to the Silver Cymbal to have the capability to run these tests and silence the doubters. I think the veteran electricians just like staying old school, which is perfectly cool. Change is sometimes hard to accept. Thanks for the great info as usual!🤩

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +5

      I really appreciate it, I love how nice and calm everything looks on video. This one was very challenging to get set up but I really wanted to see it for myself just as much to share with all of you.

    • @cooper10182
      @cooper10182 3 роки тому

      Sometimes change depends on Code Laws, though I admit these look better than the old nuts.

  • @cy9nvs
    @cy9nvs 3 роки тому +54

    In germany we only use Wago's, these wirenuts are pretty damn sketchy in my opinion.

    • @OtisFlint
      @OtisFlint 3 місяці тому

      I don't like wire nuts, but they actually work fine when used correctly. They're annoying and outdated, but not hazardous.

  • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
    @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +1

    Wago 221's: I have these damn things all over my house. I love them to death. I've never had a problem with them! They don't shake loose, they most certainly can't be "flicked off" with a finger, and they absolutely are reliable. I keep a stock of these little guys (212s and 213s) on hand all the time. I start to panic when I run low. Wire nuts? Push ins? No thank you. I'll stick with my beloved 221s, thank you very much.
    Also, according to one guy that works for Wago, it's pronounced "Wah-go" not "Way-go". However, he DID say "You're free to call them anything you want!" LOL

  • @Killerean
    @Killerean 3 роки тому +2

    Here in Czechia I frequently find Wago failures on Al wires. I can't quite pinpoint why exactly they do that. But once there is a decent load (not overload) on an Al wire through a Wago, that thing is pretty much guaranteed to fail eventually. I first found these failures during inspections and now I frequently see them while performing building service. I've never found one fail on a light fixture, it's always a power outlet circuit. Stuff that has a limit of 16A at 230V, so it's never overload. People say "use alupaste!", yea right I'm going to put safety of my installation down to a goop with questionable life time. I personally prefer EKL 0 style connectors, I always pull the wires all the way through and secure both bolts. You gotta work hard to make them fail. Those I use for me, family and my friends because they are really cheap and reliable. For company and customers I use Wago because it's just faster and it's less of a legal liability in case of complaints or failures. In 11 years of practice I've only seen one Wago fail on a copper wire. Still, with the EKL 0 style connectors in use, inspectors drool over how beautiful loop resistances they get to measure.

    • @stefans8325
      @stefans8325 2 роки тому +1

      The Al gets even weaker when heated and the steal blade inside cut's into the Al and weakens it. Use Cu wires and you will not see that problems.

    • @ChristianWagner888
      @ChristianWagner888 2 місяці тому

      Yikes, Aluminum wiring used inside the house? Are these 1960S houses? Does your electrical code still allow that? You would need wire connectors that are approved for aluminum by the manufacturer and by your electrical code. On the Wago 221 datasheet, it is only approved for copper.

    • @Killerean
      @Killerean 2 місяці тому +1

      @@ChristianWagner888 Aluminium used to be used all the way until the revolution in 1989 here. As far as I know some people used to order it even after the revolution for cost savings. The appearance of aluminium here is therefore still pretty frequent. It's pretty reliable stuff if its well maintained. Which it usually isn't. People take electricity for granted and usually ignore the dangers. This way you can find a lot of outdated and poorly maintained Al installations around here. Many of those have never been touched by an electrician, not even when they were built. The first electrician to ever see them often tends to be the one who's called to fix them. Electricians and material were rare in Czechoslovakia, a lot of the installations during that time were built by the owner of the house out of the stuff they managed to steal in the factory or on a larger building site. Alternatively people would exchange items they took in their workplaces, sometimes across long chains of people with many exchanges happening down the line. This have caused Czechoslovakian electric installations to be Frankenstein monsters mixing all sorts of materials, whatever was available. You got copper there, aluminium there, reinforced cable wrapped in lead here, and all that could be topped off with some cloth wrapped cables. So while the regulations said one thing, the material, workforce and wealth shortage told a different story. In Czechoslovakia, 60's lasted to the 90's.

    • @ChristianWagner888
      @ChristianWagner888 2 місяці тому

      @@Killerean wow, interesting background and a challenging environment for electicians. Apparently Wago does offer a solution for this. I have not tried it, as here in the Philippines I see aluminum wire mostly for the mains connection. You mention above, that you prefer EKL 0 style connectors over paste, which we call 'Lüsterklemmen' in Germany, I think. Basically an insulated connector strip with screw terminals. They used to be quite sturdy, but here in the Philippines I only find flimsy Chinese versions that crack and the screws easily strip. As the EKL screw terminals connect copper to aluminum, doesn't that require some kind of paste as well to prevent corrosion?
      Wago marketing: "If you want to connect aluminum and copper conductors using WAGO's connectors, Alu-Plus Contact Paste offers the following advantages:
      Alu-Plus Contact Paste Advantages
      Destroys oxide film during clamping
      Prevents fresh oxidation at the clamping point.
      Blocks electrolytic corrosion between aluminum and copper conductors (in the same terminal block).
      Provides long-term protection against corrosion.
      Connecting Aluminum and Copper Conductors - Adjusting Nominal Currents
      But if you want to connect aluminum and copper conductors, you must remember that copper (Cu) conducts better than aluminum (Al)! Therefore, the nominal currents must be adapted to the lower conductivity of the aluminum conductors: 2.5 mm² = 16 A, 4 mm² = 22 A."

    • @Killerean
      @Killerean 2 місяці тому +1

      @@ChristianWagner888 Yea the Chinese ones are the worst. When it comes to that paste, I'm sure WAGO has done diligent testing on that. I'm a bit skeptical when it comes to putting any kind of paste in to a high voltage terminal. I just don't like my connections greasy :D. Anyways, with the EKL I'm using the advantage of the fact that I can leave an air gap between copper and aluminium. Copper on one side, aluminium on the other. The terminals themselves are fairly resistant to corrosion and aluminium doesn't seem to mind contact with brass. At least I never really had any problems with it.
      Challenging environment... well I operate in it for 20 years, so it doesn't feel like anything extra special. ;)

  • @ACitizenOfOurWorld
    @ACitizenOfOurWorld 3 роки тому +27

    i didn’t see what the pullout strength would have been with the wire nut (especially when the conductors are NOT pre-twisted). Would it have held tighter or less than the Wago. Otherwise, many thanks for putting this demonstration together for us.

    • @orion7741
      @orion7741 3 роки тому +2

      If you are applying them correctly, they would hold on tighter when not pretwisting the wires because the wires will twist as you tighten the connector and it all gets super tight.

    • @russellhaskett6830
      @russellhaskett6830 3 роки тому

      I would put money on needing over 100 lbs of force to pull off the wire nut, and then the wires would still most likely still be connected.

    • @DKWalser
      @DKWalser 3 роки тому +9

      @@russellhaskett6830 So? Properly installed, the wires should be secured with a strain relief connection. The wire connection -- whether secured with wire nut or a Wago style connector -- is not supposed to be bearing weight. This is a case where, once something is sufficient, more isn't any better.

    • @cmotdibbler4454
      @cmotdibbler4454 3 роки тому +7

      @@DKWalser Yeah I don't get where people are coming from with that argument, if the wired are under tension you fucked up and have no place playing with electricity.

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +1

      @@russellhaskett6830 Your comment needs an asterisk at the end of it: *Assuming the wire nut has been correctly applied

  • @senoJSR
    @senoJSR 3 роки тому +3

    Used these types of connectors (Ideal) in commercial applications, for years, and have never had a problem

  • @peto22
    @peto22 3 роки тому +2

    Good video. One tip, the Wago 2273 is better for solid copper wires. I use Wago 221 connectors only when I need to connect a solid to stranded wire or stranded to stranded wire. The Wago 2273 is also better priced, approx. 1/3 compared to Wago 221 connectors.

  • @jamesmerritt5562
    @jamesmerritt5562 3 роки тому +1

    As an electronics engineer, the Wago connectors are something I've only been introduced to in the last several years, They work great for low voltage applications. I only recently started seeing them used in commercial electrical applications this year...Im only speaking for my local area, of course. Wire nuts have always been the norm. Where I have always seen problems is that our "low voltage" product with stranded wire is normally wired up by an electrician who typically only has solid conductor wire on hand and wire nuts can just be hard to use when connecting both stranded and solid wire together. The Wago works well for both types of wire. I am of course talking about products that draw less than ten amps @120VAC but the Wago really makes connecting stranded and solid wires together very easy.

  • @johntrauger68
    @johntrauger68 3 роки тому +10

    Way to go Wago!
    I've been an industrial electrician for over 50 years. I've seen a lot. Sometimes when developing control schemes and varying connections temporarily etc., I have found Wagos to be quite convenient.
    I like Wagos, this video just reinforced that liking!

  • @DaddyBeanDaddyBean
    @DaddyBeanDaddyBean 3 роки тому +3

    Great video. I'd like to see a follow up with the wire nut on insulated wire, where the connection is entirely in the last 3/4" or so vs the 3" of twist in the bare wire we saw here. Maybe twisted vs untwisted too.

  • @tek4
    @tek4 2 роки тому

    19 years licensed electrician here. A year and change ago i decided to start testing my connections. Butt splices, crimps, wirenuts and waygos. So our results actually line up and maybe I should of done the orignal footage to UA-cam, but its other places. Regardless, our results are similar and I used a welder for the power supply going up to over 100 amps for the yellow and red or tan sized wire nuts using 14, 12, 10, and 6 awg wire.

  • @GoCoyote
    @GoCoyote 3 роки тому

    As an electrician, I must say that I really like Wagos. I have only used the push on type with solid wire. I like that I can see if the wire is properly inserted. I cannot tell you the number of incorrectly connected, corroded, and or melted wire nuts I have seen in my career. I, knock on copper, have never had a Wago fail. I also like that I can easily rough in circuits and check them before they are enclosed by the wallboard. Then it is easy to add the device wiring when the walls are done by just inserting into the connector. This has saved me from mistakes in wiring by being able to confirm circuits while it was still exposed. Thanks for the testing. I will have to try the clamp type, especially if they will work with stranded wire.

  • @Zilchary
    @Zilchary 3 роки тому +22

    4:38 only in Mass where you'll wear t-shirt and shorts outside when there's snow out LOL

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +3

      Hehehe you got that right! We are definitely insane here.

    • @pertyslick6171
      @pertyslick6171 3 роки тому +5

      Alaskan here to confirm this statement is in fact false ;)

    • @chrisanderson8553
      @chrisanderson8553 3 роки тому

      @@SilverCymbal Amen my baystate brother!

    • @zacharykallinen9838
      @zacharykallinen9838 3 роки тому +2

      Yeah ok so you've never been to the midwest

    • @snoopdogie187
      @snoopdogie187 3 роки тому

      @@zacharykallinen9838 Its 40 F right now I'm wearing very similar clothing, with a foot of snow on the ground. Cold places just get used to the cold.

  • @Petrochemtester
    @Petrochemtester 3 роки тому +5

    Exactly as expected, the wago conducts all the current, whereas the wire nut conducts some, but most conduction is through direct contact of the wires

    • @cmotdibbler4454
      @cmotdibbler4454 3 роки тому +1

      It helped that in this test there was about 2" of wire twisted together that would have (hopefully) normally been in insulation rather than just bare live wires hanging about ready to kill someone.

  • @JB-kj8ov
    @JB-kj8ov 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for making this video! As an electrical contractor myself I really appreciate the tests you did. I suspect the doubt some have over these style of connectors come from residential electricians who take there experience from using the stab in connection for 14 gauge wire. The only outlets I've seen that offer that connection are made of low quailty material, giving that style of connection a bad rep. Don't judge a type of connection by the cheap outlet that employed its use.

    • @1pcfred
      @1pcfred 3 роки тому +1

      I judge a connection by the amount of conductor in contact. Because surface area equals capacity. That's why we touch wires together to make a circuit. It is intimate contact that allows the flow of electrons.

  • @Ewoodster
    @Ewoodster 3 роки тому

    Suprised to see such discussions. These Wago Clamos are used by 99% of all electricians here in Europe by now. Fully certified by standards, there is 0 risk in using them. The main difference however is that we have 230 V outlets, so the average current is usually lower

  • @dutchwebb6029
    @dutchwebb6029 3 роки тому +5

    Tests were fair & well done. Thank you for the info. Nothing you found changed my mind. I'll use the Wago connectors.

    • @DavidStrchld
      @DavidStrchld 3 роки тому +1

      Yes good job, however I would have liked to see the wire nut twisted as it would be in the field, in this it was twisted well below/outside the wire nut. All the connectivity and thus the heat should have happened within the wire nut, and none before it. I suspect the wire nut would have heated up further. Another thing I would have liked to see is multiple connections as is common in a circuit. Something like 3 or 4 of each in series, representing down stream circuits using the respective connectors, and perhaps a combo of wire nuts and Wago's and see which one gets hotter.

  • @trevorlambert4226
    @trevorlambert4226 3 роки тому +3

    I like your load tester; brought back a lot of memories. I bought one of those (used) for a calibration lab I worked for many years ago. Never saw another one like it before or after.

  • @ufninuyasha
    @ufninuyasha 2 роки тому

    I bought a small assortment box of the 221 Wagos (412, 413, and 415) to use when replacing some of my switches with smart switches, and replacing the ceiling fan in our bedroom. They are not only very easy to use, but also can save space by allowing everything to lay flat (though some might argue that because some are wider, they'll take up more space). I will only buy Wagos when I need to do electrical work at home now. No more wire nuts for me!

  • @jonkirkwood469
    @jonkirkwood469 3 роки тому +1

    I wish I was your neighbor. "I wonder if..." would lead to some great driveway fun. I enjoy that you rise to the challenge.

  • @FirstLastOne
    @FirstLastOne 3 роки тому +3

    Gallons, pounds and Fahrenheit, I have never been so lost in my life listening to someone speaking English.

    • @notahotshot
      @notahotshot 3 роки тому +1

      Is that because you are unaware that it is exceedingly easy to look up conversion factors, and apply them? Is it that you are one of those individuals who think someone else should have to do the work of converting the numbers so that you don't have to? Or, is it that you like to pretend that other systems of measurement never existed, have no reference in the real world, and therefore are impossible to ever comprehend?
      We could go back to cubits, stones, bushels, pecks, and witch's tits (as in "hotter than a).

    • @shadowopsairman1583
      @shadowopsairman1583 3 роки тому

      1 Gallon (128 oz) of water is 8 Pounds, or 3.8L.
      0 Degrees C is 32 Degrees F, 100 Degrees C is 212 Degrees F

  • @Thomas-zk3dg
    @Thomas-zk3dg 3 роки тому +5

    been using wago for more then 10 years, never had a problem with them, and way faster then a wire nut.

  • @ryanhoward9823
    @ryanhoward9823 3 роки тому

    Great follow-up video to the first video! You have proved me wrong. I admit, I am one of the "old school" electricians in the first video that called you and the Wagos out and you have convinced another traditional electrician to change his ways. The test you ran are sold evidence of the quality engineering of the Wagos. Again, thanks for providing great video evidence of this comparison. I am now a subscriber.

  • @longlost8424
    @longlost8424 3 роки тому

    Gr8, and timely, video. I recently came aware of these (wago) connectors while getting ready to replace my smoke detectors throughout my home. the new style "final mile" electrical connectors require my removal of old and reconnect of new in order to complete the task. I randomly noticed these units as a replacement to wire nuts (of which I've used throughout my life), so I bought a 100 pack off of amazon. I too, was somewhat curious as to their viability, even though I'd made the decision to "try n see" how they would perform. I can honestly say that since seeing this video (and reviewing some comments from electricians) that I'm moving full steam ahead on this project with full confidence. thank you all......... oh, and I'll be using them on my next project (workshop/storage building) over the remainder of this year.....

  • @jordananderson2728
    @jordananderson2728 3 роки тому +30

    We used Wagos all over our robots in FRC, and we had them running off 40A fuses. That's all I needed to know they were solid!

    • @carlossosa9017
      @carlossosa9017 3 роки тому +4

      We used them for CAN stuff also during a competition during 2019 we lost 2 drive motors on swerve to crimp connectors so yeah those arent that good against vibration

    • @justinvzu01
      @justinvzu01 3 роки тому +1

      @@carlossosa9017 That's an inherent fault with connectors like these. You want connectors that are soldered to the cable and clip together.

  • @davidprammer4764
    @davidprammer4764 3 роки тому +5

    I'm a Electrician and we only work with Wagos and i realy like them. Lg. From upper Austria

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +2

      Don't give out your address the US sparkies will come find you. Imagine using a better technoogy!

    • @davidprammer4764
      @davidprammer4764 3 роки тому

      @@SilverCymbal true

  • @TheEulerID
    @TheEulerID 3 роки тому +1

    What some people will not appreciate is that running 3 times the rated load doesn't generate 3 times the heat output, but 9 times due to the power dissipated being the square of the current multiple by the resistance. In practice, it will be a little worse as the resistance will also increase somewhat with temperature. So the heat generated at a sustained 60A might be 10 times higher than at 20A sustained.

  • @BeOurBee
    @BeOurBee 3 роки тому

    I'm not a professional electrician or anything but I was wiring up a simple DIY LED lamp and decided to go with WAGOs instead of wire nuts while testing it. Liked it so much I decided to leave them in the final project.
    I used to do low-voltage network wiring professionally, and my experience there soured me on wire nuts. Yeah, I know they don't belong in that application at all - that's one of the reasons I grew to hate 'em! But they're also just plain "sloppy" and they twist up too much conductor for my tastes. When I go into an apartment, I can't run new cat5 so what's in the walls is all it's ever going to have, and plenty of contractors don't leave any slack. Having to cut past a wire nut's twists to fresh, unmangled conductor always added precious time to my job list.
    When I put my lamp together, I could prototype it with the WAGOs and the lampcord was still pristine when I took them out to make adjustments. No more cutting, stripping, twisting, etc. over the conductors: just re-use them and the WAGOs over and over without waste! It saved me time, and kept me from having to sweep off tiny bits of braided conductor all the time.
    So for the few electrical projects I do have to tackle, I'm sold on these things.

  • @luketoh1
    @luketoh1 3 роки тому +5

    There is still the question of longevity...when something is heated up and cooled repeatedly for a period of time. Certain plastics degrade faster than others. Love your work!

    • @SilverCymbal
      @SilverCymbal  3 роки тому +3

      Very true. I didn't attempt to cover that since it wouldn't have been accurate since even lab testing isn't really the same as time itself but the track record in europe on them has been excellent and for over 40 years.

  • @kylek29
    @kylek29 3 роки тому +29

    May I suggest a follow up test: Wago versus the Chinese knockoffs on Amazon.

    • @darrentylor5473
      @darrentylor5473 3 роки тому

      If it isn't properly rated IE: CSA or UL You should not be using it...

  • @wingnut3193
    @wingnut3193 2 роки тому +2

    The testing performed in this video was on solid core wires only. I'd like to know how these connectors compare when joining solid to stranded, and stranded to stranded, versus the traditional twist nuts. Most light fixtures and ceiling fans nowadays require a stranded to solid core connection.

  • @edwardwhite8476
    @edwardwhite8476 3 роки тому

    Another observation is they only reason these connectors have plastic on them is to protect us and keep it isolated inside the box. So even if it does catch on fired it will not offect the connection the connection is metal be it a spring or clamp style so even with the plastic burnt off connection will be the same. Now that being said they only reason it would be that hot beside a building fire is a loose connection. Arc and Spark. When the wago first came out I was using it improperly I was using it above ceiling with little light. I pushed it in observed that the wire was past the clamp part and tug tested and was satisfied. After using them in the light and more experience I noticed that when I twisted and formed the wire to fit in the box I noticed the one closer to the wago (shorter one) twisted and was pulled out. I pulled it back down and that was when I realized that I was not pushing the wire in all of the way. Just past the clamp will not hold the wire if it is twisted at all. I was not pushing it in all of the way. If you continue to push from the clamp the wire will go all the way back to the back of the wago and if you look closely at the end of the wago you can see that the wire is far past the clamp and at the very end only leaving a thin piece of plastic between the wire and my hand. I then did a tug test and twisted the wire at the same time and the wire will not come out easily. While wasting time one day I missed with it and made some terminations and tried to pull them out . Very Hard twist and pull I got a few out Others I could not, and would have to cut the wire if I needed to pull a wire out. Again use a Wago Brand not a wago style.

  • @maddogmcrae
    @maddogmcrae 3 роки тому +3

    Wago definitely makes a great product. The lever connector takes up much less space in the electrical box than a wire nut, and it is much more reliable too.

  • @tady64
    @tady64 3 роки тому +4

    I watch some videos and discover Wagos connectors. This is the best connector EVER! Ease to use and work with. Thanks for the test.

  • @RentableSocks
    @RentableSocks 3 роки тому +1

    great video. a couple things though.
    On your first test with the wire nut, when you twisted the wires together you had like 25mm of twist beyond the wire nut, so the nut was likely not seeing the full 60A load, just the residual heat off of the long twist connection. I think it's unlikely for wires to be twisted that far down from the nut, but I'm no elechicken.
    In your heat gun test, if the wago were actually making a connection between two wires, even at 1100 degrees, the connection would not have failed. Only the plastic did, but the metal tab construction would have continued to hold on to the wires and complete the circuit. The same could probably be said for the wire nut in this case as well.

  • @creamshop
    @creamshop 3 роки тому +2

    Hi, when you tested the heat dissipation on the wire nut you twisted the non insulated wire (2:59) on a longer surface than normally would be if it was an insulated wire, the increased contact surface between the wires lowered the resistance and the result is a lower temperature at the wire nut,

  • @ctscantechnologist
    @ctscantechnologist 3 роки тому +10

    Your videos are hardcore. I never knew these wago connectors existed.

  • @richardp3624
    @richardp3624 3 роки тому +49

    Great job with logical, thorough, and scientific testing! Intelligent people know that well-engineered and UL certified products can be used with confidence. However, I'm glad to see hard evidence stuck in the faces of all the Joe Specialists out there who pretend to know more about what aught and aught not be used. You know, the type of guys who are also ultra-opinionated about their favorite motor oil brands but really don't know enough about their vehicles to fill a mouse's tea cup.

    • @explorenaked
      @explorenaked 3 роки тому +4

      Agree with you 100%. I posted on the last video how at a company I used to work our ME lived by them for outlets and switches. Never once in my time there did we get any call backs due to any sort of failure. Paraphrasing what he said, use what you like and I would add, do it to code and do it safe. Great comment.

    • @ethelryan257
      @ethelryan257 3 роки тому +6

      I'm in my 60s, and am still fighting with my apprentices about how much better these are to wire nuts. It's a mucho-macho thing.

    • @richardp3624
      @richardp3624 3 роки тому +1

      @@micahap1559 Red flags like what Joe Specialist? Is it common that 60 amps runs through no. 12 or 14 conductors? Are you feeling a bit pretentious today? Your use of emojis speaks to your intelligence level.

    • @notahotshot
      @notahotshot 3 роки тому +4

      @@mayo4300, please quote the exact part of the original comment where they said anything at all about wire nuts, particularly that anybody should be afraid of them. They said UL listed products can be used with confidence, that would include the UL listed wire nuts.

    • @notahotshot
      @notahotshot 3 роки тому +1

      @@micahap1559, "red flags" lol, you're an idiot.

  • @alexjobs
    @alexjobs 3 роки тому +2

    Wago is pretty much the standard used by electricians in Germany since 35 years. I never saw anyone fail in my 15y of carrer.

  • @johnnymotors2023
    @johnnymotors2023 3 роки тому +1

    The clamps from Wago are the best to use for wires under 60A because they are strong and they make the best connection between two wires.
    Never join the wires by twisting them or by soldering them and adding that electrical tape.
    You can use the Wago clamps even in those small tasks such as connecting some speakers to another set of wires or anything like that, such as connecting some batteries to another wire.

  • @jeffmckenzie7282
    @jeffmckenzie7282 3 роки тому +9

    When you had the wego at 20 amps, that's all I need to know it's good to use, as most 20 Amp breakers trip before they reach 20 amps. Thanks for a great video.

    • @julianreverse
      @julianreverse 3 роки тому +3

      The 0,5 - 6 mm² / 20 - 10 AWG 221s are rated for 41A / 30A UL!

    • @cfaerber
      @cfaerber 3 роки тому +3

      Er, 20 A breakers are supposed to hold that current for… like… ever. They will only go off if the current exceeds the rate by a certain factor for a certain time.

  • @stuntz0rZ
    @stuntz0rZ 3 роки тому +3

    Great explanation. I never had any doubts about Wago. Always looked highly superior.

  • @JC.SpdRcr5
    @JC.SpdRcr5 3 роки тому

    Not an electrician but I've been using wagos for years now and I have had no issues what-so-ever. I have never and will never overload any wire nut or wago with more than it's AMP rating. I was taught to always cover my electrical connector with black 1700 electrician tape no matter what. It only takes a 5 seconds and it's totally worth it in the end to prevent slippage. Going back to the wire nut, I have had many of those suckers come loose and fall off even with some electrical tape around it. Sometimes it's a matter of the wire inside unwinding itself due to expansion and pushing the wire nut off.

  • @ryewaldman2214
    @ryewaldman2214 3 роки тому +1

    A few questions/comments:
    -how did you account for the emissivity of the different connector materials when interpreting your thermal image measurements? I'm not sure if i can compare the "temperature" read out from the thermal camera between the two components because of the different materials and surface finishes.
    -normally wiring is run through walls, conduit, a raceway, or some kind of enclosed space which limits the convective cooling.
    -The temperature of the connector in an open space itself is not as critically relevant as the power it is dissipating, which will heat it and its surrounding components up.
    -Without the heat dissipation from convection, the temperature in situ-will be higher than in the free environment
    - do you have a meter than can measure the power loss through the connector? e.g., a four-wire resistance meter, or a sensitive voltage measurement so the power dissipated by the connection can be measured?

  • @ElSelcho77
    @ElSelcho77 3 роки тому +20

    Very cool Video and test. Coming from germany I use those WAGOs for everything. It would be great if you could use °C or metric in general maybe as a text overlay or something so that we europeans can follow along a little easier :)

    • @Xhopp3r
      @Xhopp3r 3 роки тому +1

      Or you can just do the math, is not that complicated

    • @mrjakobt
      @mrjakobt 3 роки тому

      @@Xhopp3r We use the metric system, because we‘re lazy and don’t want to do math.

    • @CM-zf1qc
      @CM-zf1qc 2 роки тому

      We use human measurements in the U.S.

    • @ElSelcho77
      @ElSelcho77 2 роки тому +2

      @@CM-zf1qc Just like Liberia and Myanmar. You know, Elite Countries.

    • @stefans8325
      @stefans8325 2 роки тому

      @@CM-zf1qc interesting so you got 12 fingers?

  • @glamdring0007
    @glamdring0007 3 роки тому +19

    I've used Wagos over the last few years in cases where it was just easier using them because they stack easily instead of trying to jam wirenuts into a small box...I've also continued to use wirenuts. I think there are times when both connectors make sense...who said there had to be only one answer to a problem ?

  • @ahkeen
    @ahkeen 3 роки тому +2

    Ever since I found out about these wago plugs from your videos I been using them on my home electrical projects. Love these things. 🔥

  • @Brandon_SoMD
    @Brandon_SoMD 3 роки тому +2

    Great video. Thanks! Actually I think you went easy on the wire nut. A typical hot or neutral connection would only be twisted together INSIDE the nut, so more heat would build up inside the nut. In your test, most of the current probably never passed thru the half-inch-long twisted portion inside the nut. I think that would make the Wago look even better!

  • @oldvlognewtricks
    @oldvlognewtricks 3 роки тому +5

    How much pull does it take to drag a wire out of a wire nut? I was waiting for the comparison test...

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому

      I can't give you an exact number, but (assuming it's applied correctly) it can take a lot. I think that's probably the ONLY thing a wire nut can say it does better than Wago. But again, it has to be done properly. If applied by someone who doesn't know what they're doing, a wire nut can be pulled off with almost no effort.

    • @oldvlognewtricks
      @oldvlognewtricks 3 роки тому

      @@HeWhoIsWhoHeIs ‘it can take a lot’ does not establish how it compares to a wago. In the video that wago was tested, but not the wire nut.
      I was only commenting because the tests in the video were incomplete.

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +1

      @@oldvlognewtricks and the point I was trying to make was simply the fact that it's utterly irrelevant. Whether a wire not can handle 10 pounds or a thousand, they were both strong enough to get the job done.
      In fact, I would say the Wago is better because it doesn't require any technique to properly apply. You can screw up a wire nut application, but you really can't mess up a Wago. When you push the lever down, it's either applied or it's not.

    • @oldvlognewtricks
      @oldvlognewtricks 3 роки тому +1

      @@HeWhoIsWhoHeIs Fair. This also follows for the load at which they fail - that video still showed the test for both components.
      Funnily the ‘technique’ point is often cited as as a reason wagos are bad and wrong - as if requiring knowledge or skill is somehow the same as objective virtue.
      Or it is insecure contractors desperate to defend their relevance through shibboleths rather than merit.
      Not that it’s important, but the main benefit from my perspective is that changing a wago does not require the wire to be cut and restripped to maintain a good contact, but this is true of a wire nut connection resulting in shortening wires as changes are made.

    • @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs
      @HeWhoIsWhoHeIs 3 роки тому +1

      @@oldvlognewtricks Absolutely!

  • @FIGHTTHECABLE
    @FIGHTTHECABLE 3 роки тому +5

    In Europe, we use Wago all the time. Best thing ever. Whenever I see those wirenuts, I sigh. You just cannot disconnect or connect a new wire under load with a wirenut.

  • @tightwad
    @tightwad Рік тому

    Love ease of connecting weak stranded to solid wire. Plus changing, adding to, testing, is MUCH easier and confident over "what happens inside after wirenuts are twisted?"