I don't understand the gatekeeping that some are adamant about. I'm an electrical engineer and I have learned so much from watching your videos. It makes it a lot easier for me to communicate with my electricians at work because I am getting more insight into what they actually do. You are a great teacher- thank you for educating the population and providing this resource for those in the trades.
I don't think it is gatekeeping. First, I think it is covering their own butts. Someone goes and does something stupid and gets hurt. Says 'hey, so-and-so said do this' then tries to sue them. Doesn't matter if there is a legal leg to stand on or not, no one wants to deal with that. Second, this stuff IS dangerous. If you don't know what you are doing, you can hurt yourself or others. Or you could burn down your house. So there is good reason to stress that. I'll rewire any circuit in my house without a second thought. But I won't do anything in the panel. I have an electrician make those connections. I know how to do it, doesn't mean I will. Too many amps in there. I'll leave that to the pros.
I agree with U, better be safe n run Ur house 4 yrs 2 come, pay the man who is doing 4 making living! Try 2 save few 2 several hundred dollars get hurt internal organs, {recall current (just over 10-amperes will fry human's skin, imagine that, plus our internal organs more ways than one!}, will seriously damage human's organs! Some fools trying 2 save money n they ended up screwed their precious health n more!}, as good as dead, or burn down house or not running everything in house correctly as SO many connections MUST be 100 percent accuracy indeed! Ur being wise up n let pro 2 do it! What hell is more important 2 100-percent safe, Ur house is 100-percent safe Ur all appliances will run 100-percent correctly. NO one covered this thus far, something goes wrong or not working as it should, U can always call the contractor, and they will do for free! NOW, who is wiser those who are taking a chance trying 2 themselves extremely dangerous work they are NOT being trained, or even have experience, stress, in their work! Ur being smart n case closed 4 good indeed! In closing, communication is key n tell the contractor, U want the best quality cables n Ur willing to pay onetime thing as EP (will likely last 20 years or more) is key to quality life of Ur family more ways than one!
Now days just too expensive to hire a contractor. I had my panel replaced in 2005 cost me $1400 go from 150 to 200. Neighbor got a quote few months ago wanted $5000. I watched the guy do it took him about hour once the utility cut the power and pulled the meter. Most of the time was just waiting around or talking to the inspector about a football game. I understand contractors have lot of costs and have to make a profit but now days just gouging people guy made about $4000 an hour. I'm in my 50's never in my life have I had to do so much DIY work purely because of cost.
@@Mike-01234panel swaps don’t take 1 hr especially with only one guy unless he was swapping a baby sub panel. Plus cost of materials such as the panel tubs, meter base, breakers etc have increased substantially in just the last few years due to supply chain issues. Not sure about the utility company/AHJ in ur area but there’s also fees associated with inspections and getting hydro out there to begin, with the cost being passed down on the customer unfortunately.
So easy to learn from a kind (-thinking of people who may do work after him, taping the screws so they won't get shocked, etc.) person who has no arrogance in his voice, however is very confident and loves what he's doing. Win-win for us all! Happy New Year, Electrician U! 🎉🏆
I respect the fear of teaching DIYers, but there are some of us who watch your channel just to learn. We still call on electricians for work. I have five Mike Holt books, have taken exams to check my knowledge, own the NEC, and in general have a pretty deep knowledge of this stuff given my education in EE and physics (plus I have designed circuit boards before for microelectronics). But, I still watch to learn code and see how an electrician does stuff, not to kill myself. Point is, you're a good teacher and you are reaching non-certified electricians who just want to learn and not necessarily do.
It’s always good to know how to do things the right way so even if you don’t ever do it. If you pay someone else to do it you will know if there doing it right. I taught my sister to put brakes on her car. She helped a bit and most just learned. I don’t ever expect her to do it again but now I hope that she knows enough that she can’t get taken to the cleaners by a shady mechanic or dealership. I enjoy doing my own work in as much as I can. Replacing switch’s and outlets, breakers are easy. Adding a circuit is more involved but not difficult. But you won’t see me putting in a panel and service, that’s just beyond my scope. But there’s no way I’m paying someone else to replace a switch or outlet for $100+. When I added in a new circuit in my panel for a 50amp 240v welder outlet I found the previous licensed electrician made a mistake and didn’t secure the wires for my ac correctly in the breaker. When your working on your own stuff you can take the time and go over everything and make it right. Had I not been in the panel working and inspected everything I would have never known.
@@FishFind3000 exactly. Ultimately I'm the one responsible for my safety and my children's safety. I want to know this shit so I know it's being done right. It doesn't mean I'm going to do it all, but it does mean I know to spot a crap job, and I'm not paying for a crap job that puts us in danger. And despite what electricians tell you, there are still those out there who'll do a crap job.
Right. I watch because electricity has always fascinated & terrified me. I want to understand everything about it, even though I don’t think my brain will ever have the capacity. lol
@@FishFind3000 just because they are licensed doesn’t mean they have integrity….I have found so many incorrectly installed details that were done by “licensed professionals”
I find it very hard to believe you’ve read Mike holts books and still hang on to the thought that you might “kill yourself”. If you’ve opened your NEC book to the first few pages you’d read “compliance therewith (of the nec) and proper maintenance result in an installation essentially free from hazard…” Understanding reduces risk in everything from stocks, to planting a seed in the ground to make a profit, to electricity. Get some confidence and quit wasting your money hiring guys to change your receptacles and do it yourself, especially with your background on electricity.
Definitely! The current house I live in has two 200A panels, one is fully loaded, the other is maybe 50% loaded, for around 60 breakers total, of which 7 of them were labeled. I spent a fair amount of time tracking down what breakers when to what, then pulling the plates and writing the panel and breaker number on it. I also created a detailed spreadsheet that I taped to the front of each panel.
I started marking the cover plates recently, but I also put the info in my phone. Makes it easier if the circuit breaker has tripped and you’re in the dark.
@@ecospider5 The risk is very low, even for someone who doesn't really know what they're doing. Remove screw, grasp faceplate by edges, remove, read, replace, re-insert screw. Don't lick the receptacle. Easy peasy.
I think it would actually be desirable to have a set of DIYer videos done by someone that knows what they're doing. I see some out there with obvious code violations, like a guy using the screw on the cable clamp for his ground wire. Another valuable tip to DIYers would be how and why to replace backstabbed receptacles or switches with screw terminal or clamp plate connections, and what to do if you have daisy-chained outlets.
Thank you for keeping us DIYers safe! I have learned so much from you! I must admit that thanks to you, I will change a receptacle or a switch myself; I will call a pro for anything beyond that. But what I value the most is the knowledge I have gotten from you when I have to call a pro. The way they work, the care they take, and the shortcuts they try on female homeowners because they think we don't know. Thanks to you and your many excellent videos, I truly understand what a professional should look, sound, and behave like (Yes, I also judge them on how neat they wire everything). You are Truly a Master! Please keep the knowledge coming.
An electrician I hired committed a code violation and if I had not brought in another electrician who looked at his work I would never have known that it could have set my house on fire.
I saw the title and thought wait a minute Dustin hates the DIY guy. Is this clickbait? Guess not. I am a DIY guy although I do some work with a real electrician too. I care a lot and am constantly trying to learn everything I can and if I don't know, I ask. I have had to clean up a lot of other people's messes and have learned that just because it "works" doesn't mean it's right or that people won't get hurt. We're not all hacks and I have even seen some work done by actual electricians that would keep me up at night. I am just trying to be the best that I can be. Thank you for teaching and sharing your knowledge with all of us. You certainly have a gift.
Honestly, I have been watching you for a while now and taught me a lot about electrical work. And I have done most of my electrical work at home. Most of my testers are Klein. The good stuff. Everything is bonded. I enjoy doing electrical work over plumbing. I say all this to say thank you.
Smart and probably most DIY's usually figure out quickly what we can and shouldn't do. I've started doing most of my own stuff back in the 70's (yes I'm that old) after reading books and articles on how to do what I needed done. Still today I can do most home stuff, but I will not hesitate to call a licensed electrician when needed. Thanks for your channel and the way you teach.
It's helpful to know what to ask for from a licensed electrician, and to be able to do some spot checks on their work too (too many people will show up and do bad work sadly). But I do like to live in a society that is resilient, and won't collapse if people need to do a bit of work on their own homes. Really the same idea as shops class or sex ed. in high school, overall it's better to keep people somewhat safe and capable.
Good advice. I was tought by an electrician to not necessarily line the receptacle in the middle of the mounting screw opening. The reason is that usually the drywall cutout is wider on one side or the other, so sliding the receptacle to the wide side will cover the gap better when the cover plate is installed.
As always another great video!!! One thing I noticed that you didn't mention that might be important for the DIYer is to make sure when wiring anything in a metal box to make sure the box is grounded as well. In plastic boxes they will not see a box ground but if they do live in an older house that might have metal and plastic boxes mixed throughout someone might not know that a ground is needed to the box as well as the receptacle. Just FYI for the DIY. 😉
Because it is a replacement the box should already be grounded, but that IMHO is trusting the last person too much. You have the receptical out, it doesn't hurt to double check the previous work while you have access.
I was taught to ALWAYS make sure anything I worked on was correct when I finished the job, even if it meant fixing someone else's mistakes (which unfortunately happens A LOT these days).
Another good one to add is when there is hardly any conductor in the box!.. 6 inches minimum from corner of box as per NEC. I've had to deal with this on old wiring & having to fix this. Fun fun lol. Great stuff Justin always, brother! Keep up the good work & teaching!
Thanks for teaching them correctly. I would rather they know how to do it right instead of always having to fix their problems or coming behind someone who has installed them wrong. Also, love your screwdriver. Klein extended multi is my favorite for sure. So much better than all of those 10 in 1s IMO.
Thanks for the DIY content! I've got a problem in my house that maybe others share. Our 170 year old house has "mostly" modern wiring, but I swear 75% of our outlet boxes are loose in the walls. I have NO idea why they couldn't secure the boxes better! I'm about to start a campaign to go through and inspect/fortify the boxes, and tighten up the receptacles and switches. Tips / Tricks about that sort of task would be awesome to see. Most of my wiring is romex into steel boxes. At least MOST of the knob & tube is gone.. except for those scary orphaned wires in the attic! :-/
Thank 4 very good demonstration! Very glad you emphasized that power from electrical company MUST be turned off or EP main circuit switch! Absolutely must avoid any currant zip, might cause expire U or serious internal (yes electric current will blow internal organs!) organ injures!
Dustin, I started watching you before I was even a homeowner. Since becoming a homeowner, I put safety before everything. I use your videos to gauge if I am able to tackle an electrical project and if not, I call an actual electrician. I think it is best to always know one's limit to avoid a life changing event...
I had an electrician associated with the “disaster recovery” company come out to do work, replace panels, new service, replace 1950’s wiring. Instead of bothering to call me, one day he bent a screen and tried to get in the house, setting off my alarm. Then he called me. After the job was done, or should I say, they stopped, I discovered a previously functional outlet receptacle (all were functional, if not grounded) deader than a door nail, in rewiring one thing he killed it and two of the fire damaged circuits weren’t repaired. Both him and the contractor simply ignored me until the Sheetrock, mud and paint guys (insurance only primed the ceilings and two inches of the top walls, meaning I’ll have to paint every room now) were done, then demanded payment. Insurance guy wouldn’t help as he’s several states away. Now I have to separately contract to diagnose, or probably just run a new wire as there aren’t enough outlets in there due to 1950’s construction and no built in overhead lights..I have lots of other stories, like how they gutted the place and disappeared for over two months, or how during demo they just sawed through the bottom of the rafters rather than stop at the proper depth..moral of the story..don’t have a fire, if you do, don’t use a disaster contractor, (maybe use their ppl that remove and clean your stuff, they seemed ok) and get references and a date of completion, and don’t expect help from your insurance. I’d love to replace my receptacle, too bad there’s no power running to it anymore..
I love watching your UA-cam. The area I grew up in, back in the 70's and 80's, unless you were building something industrial the Fire Marshal didn't give a crap. In most cities they had an inspector that did it all. The same guy inspected the blue print, proposed site, foundation and footings, frame, roof, enclosure, plumbing and electrical. In the country different electric co-ops had varying degrees of inspection before they'd hook up power. I followed code, did a good job and my shiz worked. The same contractors called me and I had plenty of referral business for remodeling dealing directly with the homeowner. If there had been a union shop within a hundred miles I would have applied for apprentice. Unfortunately there wasn't. So I took my knowledge of electronics and radio equipment that there was no jobs here and checked out all the NEC books at the library. I paid close attention to other people's work as I started hanging the ceiling fan over the dinner table to start. I also had a few old timers teach me tricks. When I gave up and went to other things was when the counties charging a fee to become a licensed electrician. $200 for a 3 month "license" that involved a one page test and a copy of your driver's license. I know exactly why DIYers concern you, they concern me as well. This was a long winded way of telling you of the great service your doing telling people the correct way to do it. Thank you!
Thank you for making this channel! I've been doing biology/cultural resource management (archeology) for the last 10 years and I've decided to making a career change and pursue being an electrician. I'm handy and have done construction but I want to study up before taking an apprenticeship so this is great.
Thank you, sir. I appreciate your kindness. Sometimes money becomes tight, and a generous man like you, may save someone’s life, like my own, you were right,I have no choice but to do this. And you’re a nice man to give me a chance to do it safely. I’m a dad of two young girls
Glad to know as a DIYer that I’ve been doing this correctly! But you didn’t cover a few issues I’m curious about: Is there a standard for using top screw for line wire, bottom screw for load wire? When should you use pigtails versus wire directly? What’s the best method for folding wires into the box behind the receptacles? I leave more complex things to pros, but replacing receptacles, switches, and fixtures is something I need to do frequently
It doesn’t matter which screw you use top or bottom. I think it’s just his preference to use the top screw however the outlet is positioned in his hand. From other electricians I see them pre-fold the wires before they go into the box kinda like an accordion. Tuck into the bottom then tuck into the top and mash the device in.
1)There's no standard, as it's just passing power from one terminal to the next. UNLESS it's a split receptacle. 2)Always wire directly. Exceptions for multiple gangs of switches with 1 power source, or wires are too short to work with. 3)Accordion the wire (e.g. press the wire into the top left, then bottom right of the box), never spin and press in. Just my 2 cents.
Thanks a lot, buddy that was a big help. Don’t worry about other electricians or your competition hating you because you taught a lay to do this. You helped me do a relatively minor things SAELY. I still need to pay others for bigger work. You helped mill😢today I believe. Have a nice day, God bless you.
Thank you for not allowing me to straighten my hair out. You video for a rookie like me was very informative . Gold on right side HOT! was good information. Having test equipment was encouraging to do it the right way. I did know about turning off the breakers , and making sure no power is still present before doing any work, but all your information was very helpful.
I’m a DIYer who just started learning about electrical from basically no knowledge. I’ve used your channel almost exclusively to understand how it works and what to do. Honestly I’ve preferred your channel to DIY channels because you are a professional electrician, who else is better to learn from?
I'm a DIY'er and I really appreciate videos like this. I am rewiring my whole house and replacing my old Zinco panel. I'm doing this to take pictures to make a portfolio to apply for an apprenticeship as an electrician.
I had to replace the receptacle for my washer in my basement a few months ago. Top outlet was showing intermittent ground while bottom was constant. Made sure to turn off the breaker before I started taking it out. Once it was out, I shook it and heard something moving, telling me a contact had broken. Made sure to test the outlet again when I put the new receptacle in and then turned the power off again before I put the cover back on. A simple job, but as I'm not an electrician I made sure to minimize the risk as much as possible. Even tested the receptacle to make sure it was de-energized before I started taking it out.
Totally agree. Safety is #1 learning from a electrican will help a diyr or home owner explain what they want rather than the electrican have to try and figure out what they want. Sorry been ill over the holidays haven't watched your videos...but I'm better.... you are the best... a belated happy holidays and I look forward to your videos.
Recently had to update all the dimmers in my house b/c they were old and not LED compatible. About 20 of them. House 25 y/o and electrical done by a 'professional.' Found wires wrapped counter-clockwise around screws, loose screws, and no ground wires to switches (though to be fair, I'm not sure if that was code back in 2000). Similar story when I upgraded breakers to DF and put in a SPD. Panel was a mess. Multiple neutrals to a slot on neutral bar. Neutral and ground not separated on a sub-panel. Even if you don't DIY, knowing something about electrical work is useful if you own a house.
I like that this is being done by someone who has a lincence, I have a learned a lot over the years I have been watching. The thing you need to put in Is libabilty stuff in the the description or the video because some diy person is going to do it wrong, blame you for it and sue you and win but with the liability info they can’t do anything so it gets you off the hook.
Nice video - totally agree that it's better for people to learn from a pro. I've seen plenty of bad DIY videos out there. One DIY tip for finding the right breaker - plug in a vacuum cleaner and turn it on. You can usually hear it from the service panel and it saves running back and forth. Also - you should have warned people against using the back-stabber receptacles (prone to failure and a pain to remove) and against putting more than one wire on a screw terminal.
There is nothing Wrong with a Homeowner that knows what they are doing , changing out a Receptacle in their own home as long as it's done safely and by the Code !
Neat trick ….with the Klein plug tester. If the ground sucks in the dwelling , one way to tell is to push the gfci button on the tester (on a non gfci cct) . One of the lights on the tester will dim more then the other (I haven’t tried in a awhile so I forget which light actually goes dimmer) .
At 9:38, don't stretch and tear, instead cut the tape! Over time, the tape will try and return to its original size, and will actually peel apart as it does. I had a case where it unpeeled enough to caused an arc to the metal box when users were abusing the outlet. If you trim the tape and press it down, the tape isn't trying to pull against itself and should not fail.
When I add receptacles I will usually just hold the outlet all the way to the left when im tightening the 8-32 screws because it will make it level (if the box is level) and its biased towards the neutral side and I dont have to fuss trying to make it in the center of the screw hole.
First time viewer to your channel. I really liked how you used the electrical tape around the recepticle. I have not seen that in the past but, makes so much sense. Thanks
Only thing I would add is that I typically don't allow helpers on my jobs to use their drill for the exact reason you explained. They're so worried about being done so they can play on their phones that they won't take the time to check with a screw driver. Just impact it down and throw it into the wall without spacers or box extentions and then ask me why I'm doing their work over again. Lol. Your comment section is like my company shrink or something that I can't let all my gripes out from work 🙃
That’s crazy that they always want to be on their phone, I have my aptitude test on Thursday for the local union I hope I get in and be able to do electrical work to learn and grow not just to try to finish fast to be on my phone haha😊
I deal with lots of stripped or cross threaded screws from years of hack work done by hotel maintenance guys. I use drills often, but not for many tasks.
Well... you see people overtightening receptacles with screwdrivers more often than not which is just as much of a problem as not being quite tight enough. So an apprentice just snugging them down with a drill is basically the same. By code you're supposed to torque them and ive seen it called out by an inspector before but who ever does that. General rule of thumb is to use the drill only to loosen or snug and a screwdriver or wrench to tighten though.
@@blosky5665 why tighten with a screwdriver at all if a drill is enough? My point is that if my guys are using the drill they will not take the time to use a screwdriver. I've seen a lot more loose connections in my days than I have over tighten, especially on things like recpts. and switches with smaller bits being used to tighten a cheap screw that strips out if you look at it wrong. I've actually seen things be installed too tight with a drill more than I have ever by hand. Usually larger connections though. People have literally used their impact to tighten lugs in meters and panels and caused some more expensive problems.
In other reasons to hit the breaker... Changing the plate\cover. I never used to, but when selling my in-laws i was doing a walk through and noticed a cover had a pan head screw. I went to take it off. The receptacle exploded. I think the screw used was longer and damaged the receptacle. Removing it removed some tension and the receptacle fell apart, things touched, fire ball amd explosion. Immediately hit the main breaker to the house. I was fine... But now i take that extra precaution.
My first lesson on replacing a receptacle...never use backstab! Also, I was told not to use tape over the screws, where another told me that he always uses white 3M elec tape over incase a wire breaks, but then I argued if a wire comes loose, you would eventually know. Thoughts on that, taping over the recept lead screws? As for backstab, found too many in condos/townhome construction...sure its quicker but wires expand and contract. Thoughts on backstab versus securely screwing leads?
I do it for metal boxes typically in case someone (myself included) ever has to pull the plug out hot while checking, testing or troubleshooting. I've never had problems. Never heard of tape causing issues. Seems unlikely but that's just my experience
No competent electrician I've ever met would admit to using backstab. It is bad for the reason you stated, and it's also just not a very secure way to attach the wires to the receptacle regardless. Wrapping around the screws or using a clamping type back-wire method are the best ways to wire receptacles. As for taping when using non-metallic boxes.... I think it's still often a good idea because you're usually using romex in those boxes with a bare ground wire. If a hot wire somehow comes loose from the receptacle you have an extra layer of protection against shorting out on the bare ground wire (or the neutral touches the ground and trips an AFCI). Honestly, I've usually not taped receptacles on residential jobs, but I have been told to do it before and I don't think it's without merit.
DIYer and I always tape receptacles in metal boxes as you have the extra issues with the metal box accidentally completing the circuit. The problem with tape in general is that after so many years it becomes a sticky mess and the next electrician will probably just cut it off which shortens possibly already short wires. I’ve also seen electricians tape wrap the wire nuts.
@@1shakezula1 I always tape receptacles and switches in non metallic boxes exactly for the reasons you stated. Even in a non metallic 2 gang box you could have issues with incidental contact between hot and neutrals.
I think it's important to note a few more things. One less important, many bigger cities and surrounding suburbs require metal boxes and conduit, and enforcement and requirements go down the further into the suburbs you get. On that note very important, correct me if I'm wrong but I do believe tape is required when using a metal box.
Question: Thank you ! I have a typical receptacle outlet with two vertical plug-ins. When I looked the gold screws had 1 each black wire, the silver had one white wire each. The ground wire was on the bottom. Where are these wires re-attached when I replace?
good now I can go buy all the stuff I need to change the receptacles in my house. They are at least 20 years old and some of them have these burn stains on them... I am saving your video to my favorites playlist hehe. Thanks for the info!!
I just finished changing all 159 outlets and switches in my house. I went from the builder grade standard to Decora just because they look more modern. I'm a DIYer and the cost of all 159 of those outlets and switches was a bit less than $200 total. I did them myself because the three bids I got were very close to $15,500. So, I saved about $15,200. Dang! Yeah, it took 16 days but I took my time and marked the breaker number on each receptacle and also created a very accurate simple PowerPoint of each room for myself and the future owner. And, it really was kind of fun. I will absolutely leave stringing the new 60 amp line thru the wall for the new double oven to a pro though. So next, I will paint the entire house myself for about $2500 for the 40 gallons of paint and all of the brushes and tape and plastic and stuff because the three bids I got came in at about $28,000.
You need to figure out your regular salary you earn during 16 days and add that into the cost on your DIY. Never forget to pay yourself, too. Why? Lost income. Why else? You broke your leg halfway through and had to pay someone else to finish. Enjoy!
@5:00 One of my Electrician Mates in the Navy always told me “If the circuit didn’t need to stay on to save someone’s life at that immediate moment, it isn’t worth risking your own. Always secure power.”
THANK YOU for making this! I'm about to buy a house with substandard electrical wiring, and I need to know how to do this. I will also be installing a Square D Energy Center panel because of your video on it. Keep up the great work!
The best videos for DIYrs is showing how people get hurt. And how fires start. One big problem diy people have is knowing how to make something work but not how to make it safe. The 2 biggest examples I have seen are, someone putting 7 wires into a single gang box and someone disconnecting the ground to an outdoor kitchen because the breaker kept tripping.
Ur awesome man. Im so glad u read so many books and teach it now and blew up. So motivating. I watch all ur videos and impliment them at work (Im an apprentice) its great! I have many books to read though and i love basic/fundamental stuff like ' Electrical for dummies' types books etc. Anybody have any recommendations?? Or what he has read??
Hey, i was wondering if you had a video talking about how long you would expect tasks to take for different levels of skill. (like change light fixtures, potlights , plugs, or even entering cable into a new build switch box and doing your splices.) Ultimately I understand quality over quantity, but i find a lot of guys out there have no bar to compare to
I only use the pen tester to give me a general idea if anything is active such as opening an old box when you don’t know what’s live inside. Jam that pen tester in there and you’ll know right away. Even if it doesn’t sound I still like to check splices with my actual tester to verify the presence or absence of voltage.
Nice video. You suggest that tape may not be required in residential apps. I have come across numerous times that ground wire is bare. In those cases you definitely want tape on outlet, residential or not.
I use a multimeter to test power. Those other testers are great, also. Also what’s the reason commercial environments use metal electrical boxes and residential use plastic? I have metal one in my house that was built in the 70’s. I’m replacing it with a plastic box, now.
Haha. Right on. It's mind boggling that someone thinks I'm actually going to call an electrician to change out something like this. Be safe. Use common sense. Know how to use a multimeter. Do a bit of research. 90% of the way towards a 'pro' job at 1% of the cost.
I do a limited amount of DIY work. I don't know how anyone can afford to call out a tradesman every time something small goes wrong. I didn't touch electrical for years because I was always relatively nervous about it, but after some convincing I started learning through videos like this one, and I've been able to fix some small issues with older outlets and switches. Doing these sorts of basic jobs is pretty easy (and dare I say kind of fun as one-off kind projects?). I often get the impression that I'm cleaning up messes left by previous DIYers though, so, profits aside, I see why electricians may not want to encourage this too much 😆
What is the best method for running new power to an existing outside light into a switch inside a house. Was considering using fiberglass fishing stick, but was told by the home owner it was to tight to fish new wiring.
Looks good. Was that neutral coming out from the screw when it was tightened. Hard to see. Anyway, one thing about leveling. You can leave the screws a tad loose, use the level to get the cover plumb/level then just remove the cover and tighten the screws down. You don't even need to put the screw on the cover until done. Extra step but its good fit and finish work.
I spent many years as a service electrician. NEVER USE stab in the back connections. If you tape the device do not use more than 2 wraps it’s a pain to work on
Awesome. Now I would like to request a video on removing wire from the insert holes. Most of my switches and receptacles are connected by the insert holes method and not the shepherd's book and screw method. I have tried 4 different tiny screw drivers but am unable to unlock the wire to release it.
Did you mean shepherd's hook? I know electricians use their personal terminology, but jeez:p For your issue, grab the wire close to the back and twist the receptacle while gently pulling.
I have done my own electrical for years, but after watching all these videos online I figured out I have done lot of incorrect work. I'm older so lot of this bad work was from the 90's and early 2000's when read 40 page electrical paperback found at HD.
Don't understand the DIY hate. I am a DIY'er and I watch your channel to learn how to do things right. Certainly the average person that wants to learn can change out a receptacle or switch without subjecting themselves to any more danger than using a ladder or saw. Anyway, thanks for what you do!
As a confessed DIY guy that is willing to jump into a lot of projects, I’ll say that if anything in this video surprised you, you probably shouldn’t do DIY electrical work yet. Good video.
Found one with the green screw on the same side as brass screw live side I have a video of it on my you tube What is different about brown outlet - notice the green screw is on live side
I found this video so helpful however i was wondering if you could make a special video of a project that a friend and i want to make using a thick extension cord installed into a junction boxed with a wall outlet on it and then next to it a little bit of thick extension cord into another junction box to install a circuit breaker into the junction box and then will put a switch plate that is fully covered up with 2 screws that you have to unscrew to reset the circuit breaker if ever tripped. I wanted to know how to wire that so we can install a 15 amp circuit breaker to a 15 amp wall outlet receptacle. Could you please make a video on that?
What do you think of the new Leviton Edge products that use levers (like wago)? It would be cool to see a tear down of them to see how they work internally (and the quality of the backstrap, internal connectors, etc)
Thank you for all the good information, I have a question for you, I’m replacing receptacles and when doing the first one I found that the wires are too short, the wires are 12 gauge, can I make them longer with 14 gauge wire ? Thank you.
I'm a DIY that took actual electrical classes at the community college. A few things I'd like to add: 1. Make sure there is no insulation under the terminal screw 2. Make sure the bare wire of the hot and neutral does not extend past the device back. 3 Wiggle the device after installing the conductors and recheck for tightness. What's your suggestion with dealing with stacons that were crimped tight in the box? Maybe 2-3" of wire. Yeah, I'd like to kick that 90's electrician in the back side for using back stabs and not leaving enough wire to change to terminal connections without adding pigtails. Finally, Thanks for your more technical videos. They help me know what I want done when I need to hire an electrician.
If the panel is not marked - Plug a lamp into the receptacle, turn it on, open breakers until it goes out. I do check the receptacle with my Fluke 117 after I get it out of the box.
This video was very helpful and insightful. I am purchasing an appliance that has a Nema 5-20 and requires a 20 amp. My circuit breaker says 20amp but I have a 15amp receptacle. Should I swap out the receptacle with a 20amp receptacle or would an adapter be ok? Thanks.
I know the white must go to the silver screws and black must go to the brass screws but like in this video does it matter which brass screw the black goes to? Will it matter if its the top or bottom brass screw? Likewise, does it matter if the white wire goes to the top or bottom silver screw?
Hello Sir, I like your style of teaching and appreciate you sharing your knowledge. I enjoy doing electrical projects/repairs, I probably should have chosen it for a career when I wore a younger man's clothes lol. Anyway, I wanted to ask about a residential code, I had heard many years ago, was changing or suppose too change. Which is the installation of receptacles are supposed to be flipped over to have the ground hole on the top. Could you please clarify that for me? I don't see anyone doing it that way. Thank you.
A good video might be on NCVs. They show potential. An open/loaded neutral gives off a huge magnetic field. NCVs can be an amazing tool if used properly.
I am a DIYer and also hoping to become an apprentice electrician within the next 6 mos. I greatly appreciate all of your videos! I might have missed it, but does the metal junction box have to be grounded?
I don't understand the gatekeeping that some are adamant about. I'm an electrical engineer and I have learned so much from watching your videos. It makes it a lot easier for me to communicate with my electricians at work because I am getting more insight into what they actually do. You are a great teacher- thank you for educating the population and providing this resource for those in the trades.
I don't think it is gatekeeping.
First, I think it is covering their own butts. Someone goes and does something stupid and gets hurt. Says 'hey, so-and-so said do this' then tries to sue them. Doesn't matter if there is a legal leg to stand on or not, no one wants to deal with that.
Second, this stuff IS dangerous. If you don't know what you are doing, you can hurt yourself or others. Or you could burn down your house. So there is good reason to stress that.
I'll rewire any circuit in my house without a second thought. But I won't do anything in the panel. I have an electrician make those connections.
I know how to do it, doesn't mean I will. Too many amps in there. I'll leave that to the pros.
I agree with U, better be safe n run Ur house 4 yrs 2 come, pay the man who is doing 4 making living! Try 2 save few 2 several hundred dollars get hurt internal organs, {recall current (just over 10-amperes will fry human's skin, imagine that, plus our internal organs more ways than one!}, will seriously damage human's organs! Some fools trying 2 save money n they ended up screwed their precious health n more!}, as good as dead, or burn down house or not running everything in house correctly as SO many connections MUST be 100 percent accuracy indeed! Ur being wise up n let pro 2 do it! What hell is more important 2 100-percent safe, Ur house is 100-percent safe Ur all appliances will run 100-percent correctly. NO one covered this thus far, something goes wrong or not working as it should, U can always call the contractor, and they will do for free! NOW, who is wiser those who are taking a chance trying 2 themselves extremely dangerous work they are NOT being trained, or even have experience, stress, in their work! Ur being smart n case closed 4 good indeed! In closing, communication is key n tell the contractor, U want the best quality cables n Ur willing to pay onetime thing as EP (will likely last 20 years or more) is key to quality life of Ur family more ways than one!
Honestly its better that DIYers learn from actual professionals than other DIYers. Its kinda like the blind leading the blind.
Yeah I'm a DIY and I learned all of my electrical knowledge from him. Watching his videos really did teach me a lot
Duh, that goes without saying. Thanks for the insight smh.
@@uppercutshurt5199 im glad my insight was so inspiring to you that you took time out of your day to write such sweet things.
I learned most of what I know from my best friend who is an actual electrician. Helping him wire his house, as well as helping him with side work.
@@zacharykorbet9690 How do you know it's right and properly code compliant ?
This video helped me replace an old receptable, as a first time DIYer. Thank you so much!
As a home owner (not a electrician) I replace recepticals, run circuits and even replaced my electrical panel. The panel was permited and inspectied.
It’s the best way to save money and know the work is done right.
“1 home owner dead after diy electrical work - this is abc news… back at ya. “ Hire a professional you goof balls its not worth your life.
Not everyone is gonna get lucky and do a full run. Stop encouraging people. Its not safe work.
Now days just too expensive to hire a contractor. I had my panel replaced in 2005 cost me $1400 go from 150 to 200. Neighbor got a quote few months ago wanted $5000. I watched the guy do it took him about hour once the utility cut the power and pulled the meter. Most of the time was just waiting around or talking to the inspector about a football game. I understand contractors have lot of costs and have to make a profit but now days just gouging people guy made about $4000 an hour. I'm in my 50's never in my life have I had to do so much DIY work purely because of cost.
@@Mike-01234panel swaps don’t take 1 hr especially with only one guy unless he was swapping a baby sub panel. Plus cost of materials such as the panel tubs, meter base, breakers etc have increased substantially in just the last few years due to supply chain issues. Not sure about the utility company/AHJ in ur area but there’s also fees associated with inspections and getting hydro out there to begin, with the cost being passed down on the customer unfortunately.
So easy to learn from a kind (-thinking of people who may do work after him, taping the screws so they won't get shocked, etc.) person who has no arrogance in his voice, however is very confident and loves what he's doing. Win-win for us all!
Happy New Year, Electrician U! 🎉🏆
I respect the fear of teaching DIYers, but there are some of us who watch your channel just to learn. We still call on electricians for work.
I have five Mike Holt books, have taken exams to check my knowledge, own the NEC, and in general have a pretty deep knowledge of this stuff given my education in EE and physics (plus I have designed circuit boards before for microelectronics). But, I still watch to learn code and see how an electrician does stuff, not to kill myself.
Point is, you're a good teacher and you are reaching non-certified electricians who just want to learn and not necessarily do.
It’s always good to know how to do things the right way so even if you don’t ever do it. If you pay someone else to do it you will know if there doing it right.
I taught my sister to put brakes on her car. She helped a bit and most just learned. I don’t ever expect her to do it again but now I hope that she knows enough that she can’t get taken to the cleaners by a shady mechanic or dealership. I enjoy doing my own work in as much as I can. Replacing switch’s and outlets, breakers are easy. Adding a circuit is more involved but not difficult. But you won’t see me putting in a panel and service, that’s just beyond my scope. But there’s no way I’m paying someone else to replace a switch or outlet for $100+.
When I added in a new circuit in my panel for a 50amp 240v welder outlet I found the previous licensed electrician made a mistake and didn’t secure the wires for my ac correctly in the breaker. When your working on your own stuff you can take the time and go over everything and make it right. Had I not been in the panel working and inspected everything I would have never known.
@@FishFind3000 exactly. Ultimately I'm the one responsible for my safety and my children's safety. I want to know this shit so I know it's being done right. It doesn't mean I'm going to do it all, but it does mean I know to spot a crap job, and I'm not paying for a crap job that puts us in danger.
And despite what electricians tell you, there are still those out there who'll do a crap job.
Right. I watch because electricity has always fascinated & terrified me. I want to understand everything about it, even though I don’t think my brain will ever have the capacity. lol
@@FishFind3000 just because they are licensed doesn’t mean they have integrity….I have found so many incorrectly installed details that were done by “licensed professionals”
I find it very hard to believe you’ve read Mike holts books and still hang on to the thought that you might “kill yourself”. If you’ve opened your NEC book to the first few pages you’d read “compliance therewith (of the nec) and proper maintenance result in an installation essentially free from hazard…” Understanding reduces risk in everything from stocks, to planting a seed in the ground to make a profit, to electricity. Get some confidence and quit wasting your money hiring guys to change your receptacles and do it yourself, especially with your background on electricity.
One thing I like to do is write the breaker number on the inside of the cover plate.
Definitely! The current house I live in has two 200A panels, one is fully loaded, the other is maybe 50% loaded, for around 60 breakers total, of which 7 of them were labeled. I spent a fair amount of time tracking down what breakers when to what, then pulling the plates and writing the panel and breaker number on it. I also created a detailed spreadsheet that I taped to the front of each panel.
I started marking the cover plates recently, but I also put the info in my phone. Makes it easier if the circuit breaker has tripped and you’re in the dark.
It’s also a good place to right what the paint color/code is if you ever need touch ups.
It is better than it not being there. But you have to open the receptacle when the power is on to find out what circuit it is.
@@ecospider5 The risk is very low, even for someone who doesn't really know what they're doing. Remove screw, grasp faceplate by edges, remove, read, replace, re-insert screw. Don't lick the receptacle. Easy peasy.
I think it would actually be desirable to have a set of DIYer videos done by someone that knows what they're doing. I see some out there with obvious code violations, like a guy using the screw on the cable clamp for his ground wire. Another valuable tip to DIYers would be how and why to replace backstabbed receptacles or switches with screw terminal or clamp plate connections, and what to do if you have daisy-chained outlets.
Screw on the cable clamp for the ground wire? He was using a screw intended as a mechanical fastener for the purposes of bonding?
Thank you for keeping us DIYers safe! I have learned so much from you! I must admit that thanks to you, I will change a receptacle or a switch myself; I will call a pro for anything beyond that. But what I value the most is the knowledge I have gotten from you when I have to call a pro. The way they work, the care they take, and the shortcuts they try on female homeowners because they think we don't know. Thanks to you and your many excellent videos, I truly understand what a professional should look, sound, and behave like (Yes, I also judge them on how neat they wire everything). You are Truly a Master! Please keep the knowledge coming.
An electrician I hired committed a code violation and if I had not brought in another electrician who looked at his work I would never have known that it could have set my house on fire.
I saw the title and thought wait a minute Dustin hates the DIY guy. Is this clickbait? Guess not. I am a DIY guy although I do some work with a real electrician too. I care a lot and am constantly trying to learn everything I can and if I don't know, I ask. I have had to clean up a lot of other people's messes and have learned that just because it "works" doesn't mean it's right or that people won't get hurt. We're not all hacks and I have even seen some work done by actual electricians that would keep me up at night. I am just trying to be the best that I can be. Thank you for teaching and sharing your knowledge with all of us. You certainly have a gift.
I don’t trust just every one. I’ve known 3 electricians who have died by electrocution.
Honestly, I have been watching you for a while now and taught me a lot about electrical work. And I have done most of my electrical work at home. Most of my testers are Klein. The good stuff. Everything is bonded. I enjoy doing electrical work over plumbing. I say all this to say thank you.
Smart and probably most DIY's usually figure out quickly what we can and shouldn't do. I've started doing most of my own stuff back in the 70's (yes I'm that old) after reading books and articles on how to do what I needed done. Still today I can do most home stuff, but I will not hesitate to call a licensed electrician when needed. Thanks for your channel and the way you teach.
It's helpful to know what to ask for from a licensed electrician, and to be able to do some spot checks on their work too (too many people will show up and do bad work sadly). But I do like to live in a society that is resilient, and won't collapse if people need to do a bit of work on their own homes. Really the same idea as shops class or sex ed. in high school, overall it's better to keep people somewhat safe and capable.
Good advice. I was tought by an electrician to not necessarily line the receptacle in the middle of the mounting screw opening. The reason is that usually the drywall cutout is wider on one side or the other, so sliding the receptacle to the wide side will cover the gap better when the cover plate is installed.
As a beginner fixer upper I so appreciated this video.
As always another great video!!! One thing I noticed that you didn't mention that might be important for the DIYer is to make sure when wiring anything in a metal box to make sure the box is grounded as well. In plastic boxes they will not see a box ground but if they do live in an older house that might have metal and plastic boxes mixed throughout someone might not know that a ground is needed to the box as well as the receptacle.
Just FYI for the DIY. 😉
Because it is a replacement the box should already be grounded, but that IMHO is trusting the last person too much. You have the receptical out, it doesn't hurt to double check the previous work while you have access.
I was taught to ALWAYS make sure anything I worked on was correct when I finished the job, even if it meant fixing someone else's mistakes (which unfortunately happens A LOT these days).
Another good one to add is when there is hardly any conductor in the box!.. 6 inches minimum from corner of box as per NEC. I've had to deal with this on old wiring & having to fix this. Fun fun lol. Great stuff Justin always, brother! Keep up the good work & teaching!
@@bljdeep lol! Yes! Agreed! I usually do 8 inches on my installs & tuck them neatly back in the corner folded twice.
Thanks for teaching them correctly. I would rather they know how to do it right instead of always having to fix their problems or coming behind someone who has installed them wrong. Also, love your screwdriver. Klein extended multi is my favorite for sure. So much better than all of those 10 in 1s IMO.
Thanks for the DIY content! I've got a problem in my house that maybe others share. Our 170 year old house has "mostly" modern wiring, but I swear 75% of our outlet boxes are loose in the walls. I have NO idea why they couldn't secure the boxes better! I'm about to start a campaign to go through and inspect/fortify the boxes, and tighten up the receptacles and switches. Tips / Tricks about that sort of task would be awesome to see. Most of my wiring is romex into steel boxes. At least MOST of the knob & tube is gone.. except for those scary orphaned wires in the attic! :-/
Thank 4 very good demonstration! Very glad you emphasized that power from electrical company MUST be turned off or EP main circuit switch! Absolutely must avoid any currant zip, might cause expire U or serious internal (yes electric current will blow internal organs!) organ injures!
The socket tester is one of my favorites, as it also useful for testing UPS (uninterruptible power supplies) for IT.
Thank you, Dustin. You are right. We are going to do it anyway.
Dustin, I started watching you before I was even a homeowner. Since becoming a homeowner, I put safety before everything. I use your videos to gauge if I am able to tackle an electrical project and if not, I call an actual electrician. I think it is best to always know one's limit to avoid a life changing event...
I had an electrician associated with the “disaster recovery” company come out to do work, replace panels, new service, replace 1950’s wiring. Instead of bothering to call me, one day he bent a screen and tried to get in the house, setting off my alarm. Then he called me. After the job was done, or should I say, they stopped, I discovered a previously functional outlet receptacle (all were functional, if not grounded) deader than a door nail, in rewiring one thing he killed it and two of the fire damaged circuits weren’t repaired. Both him and the contractor simply ignored me until the Sheetrock, mud and paint guys (insurance only primed the ceilings and two inches of the top walls, meaning I’ll have to paint every room now) were done, then demanded payment. Insurance guy wouldn’t help as he’s several states away. Now I have to separately contract to diagnose, or probably just run a new wire as there aren’t enough outlets in there due to 1950’s construction and no built in overhead lights..I have lots of other stories, like how they gutted the place and disappeared for over two months, or how during demo they just sawed through the bottom of the rafters rather than stop at the proper depth..moral of the story..don’t have a fire, if you do, don’t use a disaster contractor, (maybe use their ppl that remove and clean your stuff, they seemed ok) and get references and a date of completion, and don’t expect help from your insurance. I’d love to replace my receptacle, too bad there’s no power running to it anymore..
Yep, a lesson learned that in the beginning, don't go into default mode but become more Hot and less Neutral about the situation.
I love watching your UA-cam.
The area I grew up in, back in the 70's and 80's, unless you were building something industrial the Fire Marshal didn't give a crap. In most cities they had an inspector that did it all. The same guy inspected the blue print, proposed site, foundation and footings, frame, roof, enclosure, plumbing and electrical. In the country different electric co-ops had varying degrees of inspection before they'd hook up power. I followed code, did a good job and my shiz worked. The same contractors called me and I had plenty of referral business for remodeling dealing directly with the homeowner.
If there had been a union shop within a hundred miles I would have applied for apprentice. Unfortunately there wasn't. So I took my knowledge of electronics and radio equipment that there was no jobs here and checked out all the NEC books at the library. I paid close attention to other people's work as I started hanging the ceiling fan over the dinner table to start. I also had a few old timers teach me tricks.
When I gave up and went to other things was when the counties charging a fee to become a licensed electrician. $200 for a 3 month "license" that involved a one page test and a copy of your driver's license.
I know exactly why DIYers concern you, they concern me as well. This was a long winded way of telling you of the great service your doing telling people the correct way to do it. Thank you!
Thank you for making this channel! I've been doing biology/cultural resource management (archeology) for the last 10 years and I've decided to making a career change and pursue being an electrician. I'm handy and have done construction but I want to study up before taking an apprenticeship so this is great.
Thank you, sir. I appreciate your kindness. Sometimes money becomes tight, and a generous man like you, may save someone’s life, like my own, you were right,I have no choice but to do this. And you’re a nice man to give me a chance to do it safely. I’m a dad of two young girls
Glad to know as a DIYer that I’ve been doing this correctly! But you didn’t cover a few issues I’m curious about: Is there a standard for using top screw for line wire, bottom screw for load wire? When should you use pigtails versus wire directly? What’s the best method for folding wires into the box behind the receptacles? I leave more complex things to pros, but replacing receptacles, switches, and fixtures is something I need to do frequently
Yep
It doesn’t matter which screw you use top or bottom. I think it’s just his preference to use the top screw however the outlet is positioned in his hand. From other electricians I see them pre-fold the wires before they go into the box kinda like an accordion. Tuck into the bottom then tuck into the top and mash the device in.
@@FishFind3000 pre fold - makes sense - thank you!
1)There's no standard, as it's just passing power from one terminal to the next. UNLESS it's a split receptacle.
2)Always wire directly. Exceptions for multiple gangs of switches with 1 power source, or wires are too short to work with.
3)Accordion the wire (e.g. press the wire into the top left, then bottom right of the box), never spin and press in. Just my 2 cents.
Thanks a lot, buddy that was a big help. Don’t worry about other electricians or your competition hating you because you taught a lay to do this. You helped me do a relatively minor things SAELY. I still need to pay others for bigger work. You helped mill😢today I believe. Have a nice day, God bless you.
Thank you for not allowing me to straighten my hair out. You video for a rookie like me was very informative . Gold on right side HOT! was good information. Having test equipment was encouraging to do it the right way. I did know about turning off the breakers , and making sure no power is still present before doing any work, but all your information was very helpful.
I’m a DIYer who just started learning about electrical from basically no knowledge. I’ve used your channel almost exclusively to understand how it works and what to do. Honestly I’ve preferred your channel to DIY channels because you are a professional electrician, who else is better to learn from?
I'm a DIY'er and I really appreciate videos like this. I am rewiring my whole house and replacing my old Zinco panel. I'm doing this to take pictures to make a portfolio to apply for an apprenticeship as an electrician.
How's that project coming along? I will be doing something similar.
I had to replace the receptacle for my washer in my basement a few months ago. Top outlet was showing intermittent ground while bottom was constant. Made sure to turn off the breaker before I started taking it out. Once it was out, I shook it and heard something moving, telling me a contact had broken. Made sure to test the outlet again when I put the new receptacle in and then turned the power off again before I put the cover back on. A simple job, but as I'm not an electrician I made sure to minimize the risk as much as possible. Even tested the receptacle to make sure it was de-energized before I started taking it out.
DYI repair may lead to a future electricians or other technician jobs . I work with automated laboratory equipment, knowing the basics is a big help.
Totally agree. Safety is #1 learning from a electrican will help a diyr or home owner explain what they want rather than the electrican have to try and figure out what they want. Sorry been ill over the holidays haven't watched your videos...but I'm better.... you are the best... a belated happy holidays and I look forward to your videos.
3:22 Ah yes the big one is the big one. Thank you for sharing these words of wisdom.
Recently had to update all the dimmers in my house b/c they were old and not LED compatible. About 20 of them. House 25 y/o and electrical done by a 'professional.' Found wires wrapped counter-clockwise around screws, loose screws, and no ground wires to switches (though to be fair, I'm not sure if that was code back in 2000). Similar story when I upgraded breakers to DF and put in a SPD. Panel was a mess. Multiple neutrals to a slot on neutral bar. Neutral and ground not separated on a sub-panel. Even if you don't DIY, knowing something about electrical work is useful if you own a house.
I like that this is being done by someone who has a lincence, I have a learned a lot over the years I have been watching. The thing you need to put in Is libabilty stuff in the the description or the video because some diy person is going to do it wrong, blame you for it and sue you and win but with the liability info they can’t do anything so it gets you off the hook.
Thats an awesome idea my house is set up like zones instead of individual roons and large appliances
Nice video - totally agree that it's better for people to learn from a pro. I've seen plenty of bad DIY videos out there.
One DIY tip for finding the right breaker - plug in a vacuum cleaner and turn it on. You can usually hear it from the service panel and it saves running back and forth.
Also - you should have warned people against using the back-stabber receptacles (prone to failure and a pain to remove) and against putting more than one wire on a screw terminal.
There is nothing Wrong with a Homeowner that knows what they are doing , changing out a Receptacle in their own home as long as it's done safely and by the Code !
Neat trick ….with the Klein plug tester. If the ground sucks in the dwelling , one way to tell is to push the gfci button on the tester (on a non gfci cct) . One of the lights on the tester will dim more then the other (I haven’t tried in a awhile so I forget which light actually goes dimmer) .
At 9:38, don't stretch and tear, instead cut the tape! Over time, the tape will try and return to its original size, and will actually peel apart as it does. I had a case where it unpeeled enough to caused an arc to the metal box when users were abusing the outlet. If you trim the tape and press it down, the tape isn't trying to pull against itself and should not fail.
I like leaving pull tabs on tape. I am sure the next guy will appreciate it.
When I add receptacles I will usually just hold the outlet all the way to the left when im tightening the 8-32 screws because it will make it level (if the box is level) and its biased towards the neutral side and I dont have to fuss trying to make it in the center of the screw hole.
6-32
Useful rhyme I heard from work for remembering where the hot goes in resi settings is “black on brass or it’s your a$$”
First time viewer to your channel. I really liked how you used the electrical tape around the recepticle. I have not seen that in the past but, makes so much sense. Thanks
Only thing I would add is that I typically don't allow helpers on my jobs to use their drill for the exact reason you explained. They're so worried about being done so they can play on their phones that they won't take the time to check with a screw driver. Just impact it down and throw it into the wall without spacers or box extentions and then ask me why I'm doing their work over again. Lol. Your comment section is like my company shrink or something that I can't let all my gripes out from work 🙃
That’s crazy that they always want to be on their phone, I have my aptitude test on Thursday for the local union I hope I get in and be able to do electrical work to learn and grow not just to try to finish fast to be on my phone haha😊
I deal with lots of stripped or cross threaded screws from years of hack work done by hotel maintenance guys.
I use drills often, but not for many tasks.
Well... you see people overtightening receptacles with screwdrivers more often than not which is just as much of a problem as not being quite tight enough. So an apprentice just snugging them down with a drill is basically the same. By code you're supposed to torque them and ive seen it called out by an inspector before but who ever does that. General rule of thumb is to use the drill only to loosen or snug and a screwdriver or wrench to tighten though.
@@blosky5665 why tighten with a screwdriver at all if a drill is enough? My point is that if my guys are using the drill they will not take the time to use a screwdriver. I've seen a lot more loose connections in my days than I have over tighten, especially on things like recpts. and switches with smaller bits being used to tighten a cheap screw that strips out if you look at it wrong. I've actually seen things be installed too tight with a drill more than I have ever by hand. Usually larger connections though. People have literally used their impact to tighten lugs in meters and panels and caused some more expensive problems.
Electric Screwdrivers fill both niche well.
In other reasons to hit the breaker... Changing the plate\cover. I never used to, but when selling my in-laws i was doing a walk through and noticed a cover had a pan head screw. I went to take it off. The receptacle exploded. I think the screw used was longer and damaged the receptacle. Removing it removed some tension and the receptacle fell apart, things touched, fire ball amd explosion. Immediately hit the main breaker to the house. I was fine... But now i take that extra precaution.
Your'e right. We are going to do this ourselves. Electricians are busy with other electrical work anyway.
Really good vid. Answered any questions a diy person would have and encouraged safety.
My first lesson on replacing a receptacle...never use backstab! Also, I was told not to use tape over the screws, where another told me that he always uses white 3M elec tape over incase a wire breaks, but then I argued if a wire comes loose, you would eventually know. Thoughts on that, taping over the recept lead screws? As for backstab, found too many in condos/townhome construction...sure its quicker but wires expand and contract. Thoughts on backstab versus securely screwing leads?
I do it for metal boxes typically in case someone (myself included) ever has to pull the plug out hot while checking, testing or troubleshooting. I've never had problems. Never heard of tape causing issues. Seems unlikely but that's just my experience
No competent electrician I've ever met would admit to using backstab. It is bad for the reason you stated, and it's also just not a very secure way to attach the wires to the receptacle regardless. Wrapping around the screws or using a clamping type back-wire method are the best ways to wire receptacles.
As for taping when using non-metallic boxes.... I think it's still often a good idea because you're usually using romex in those boxes with a bare ground wire. If a hot wire somehow comes loose from the receptacle you have an extra layer of protection against shorting out on the bare ground wire (or the neutral touches the ground and trips an AFCI). Honestly, I've usually not taped receptacles on residential jobs, but I have been told to do it before and I don't think it's without merit.
DIYer and I always tape receptacles in metal boxes as you have the extra issues with the metal box accidentally completing the circuit. The problem with tape in general is that after so many years it becomes a sticky mess and the next electrician will probably just cut it off which shortens possibly already short wires. I’ve also seen electricians tape wrap the wire nuts.
@@1shakezula1 I always tape receptacles and switches in non metallic boxes exactly for the reasons you stated. Even in a non metallic 2 gang box you could have issues with incidental contact between hot and neutrals.
I especially tape gfci on single gang boxes as there’s no room for them and a higher chance of contacting the box/cover plate.
Thanks from one of the DIY crowd. Hope you have a safe and Happy New Year!
I think it's important to note a few more things. One less important, many bigger cities and surrounding suburbs require metal boxes and conduit, and enforcement and requirements go down the further into the suburbs you get. On that note very important, correct me if I'm wrong but I do believe tape is required when using a metal box.
Question: Thank you ! I have a typical receptacle outlet with two vertical plug-ins. When I looked the gold screws had 1 each black wire, the silver had one white wire each. The ground wire was on the bottom. Where are these wires re-attached when I replace?
This is a great video for DIY homeowners. As an electrician, you'd be expected to do this in under a minute with the power still on though.
Even though this video isn't for a person like me I still enjoy watching Dustin work. Thanks Dustin and Happy New Year!
good now I can go buy all the stuff I need to change the receptacles in my house. They are at least 20 years old and some of them have these burn stains on them... I am saving your video to my favorites playlist hehe. Thanks for the info!!
LP
I just finished changing all 159 outlets and switches in my house. I went from the builder grade standard to Decora just because they look more modern. I'm a DIYer and the cost of all 159 of those outlets and switches was a bit less than $200 total. I did them myself because the three bids I got were very close to $15,500. So, I saved about $15,200. Dang! Yeah, it took 16 days but I took my time and marked the breaker number on each receptacle and also created a very accurate simple PowerPoint of each room for myself and the future owner. And, it really was kind of fun. I will absolutely leave stringing the new 60 amp line thru the wall for the new double oven to a pro though. So next, I will paint the entire house myself for about $2500 for the 40 gallons of paint and all of the brushes and tape and plastic and stuff because the three bids I got came in at about $28,000.
You need to figure out your regular salary you earn during 16 days and add that into the cost on your DIY. Never forget to pay yourself, too. Why? Lost income. Why else? You broke your leg halfway through and had to pay someone else to finish. Enjoy!
@5:00 One of my Electrician Mates in the Navy always told me “If the circuit didn’t need to stay on to save someone’s life at that immediate moment, it isn’t worth risking your own. Always secure power.”
THANK YOU for making this! I'm about to buy a house with substandard electrical wiring, and I need to know how to do this. I will also be installing a Square D Energy Center panel because of your video on it. Keep up the great work!
The best videos for DIYrs is showing how people get hurt. And how fires start. One big problem diy people have is knowing how to make something work but not how to make it safe.
The 2 biggest examples I have seen are, someone putting 7 wires into a single gang box and someone disconnecting the ground to an outdoor kitchen because the breaker kept tripping.
Ur awesome man. Im so glad u read so many books and teach it now and blew up. So motivating. I watch all ur videos and impliment them at work (Im an apprentice) its great! I have many books to read though and i love basic/fundamental stuff like ' Electrical for dummies' types books etc. Anybody have any recommendations?? Or what he has read??
this was awesome guide man. Looks pretty straightforward, gonna try this later this week
Hey, i was wondering if you had a video talking about how long you would expect tasks to take for different levels of skill. (like change light fixtures, potlights , plugs, or even entering cable into a new build switch box and doing your splices.)
Ultimately I understand quality over quantity, but i find a lot of guys out there have no bar to compare to
A great video to start the new year!
I only use the pen tester to give me a general idea if anything is active such as opening an old box when you don’t know what’s live inside. Jam that pen tester in there and you’ll know right away. Even if it doesn’t sound I still like to check splices with my actual tester to verify the presence or absence of voltage.
Yup. I use the ncv to figure out what I need to meter. And for solving mysteries.
the beeper i was told it jus good to know if power is on/off basically it. and like u said it doesnt detect120/240
Nice video. You suggest that tape may not be required in residential apps. I have come across numerous times that ground wire is bare. In those cases you definitely want tape on outlet, residential or not.
As you said, it's just as useful for apprentices as well, not just DIYers.
I use a multimeter to test power. Those other testers are great, also.
Also what’s the reason commercial environments use metal electrical boxes and residential use plastic? I have metal one in my house that was built in the 70’s. I’m replacing it with a plastic box, now.
After watching your video I believe I could do this job myself God bless you and thank you for your videos ❤
Haha. Right on. It's mind boggling that someone thinks I'm actually going to call an electrician to change out something like this. Be safe. Use common sense. Know how to use a multimeter. Do a bit of research. 90% of the way towards a 'pro' job at 1% of the cost.
I do a limited amount of DIY work. I don't know how anyone can afford to call out a tradesman every time something small goes wrong. I didn't touch electrical for years because I was always relatively nervous about it, but after some convincing I started learning through videos like this one, and I've been able to fix some small issues with older outlets and switches. Doing these sorts of basic jobs is pretty easy (and dare I say kind of fun as one-off kind projects?). I often get the impression that I'm cleaning up messes left by previous DIYers though, so, profits aside, I see why electricians may not want to encourage this too much 😆
What is the best method for running new power to an existing outside light into a switch
inside a house. Was considering using fiberglass fishing stick, but was told by the home owner it was to tight to fish new wiring.
Thank you great video without a bunch of senseless droning on n on about common sense stuff. Love it, very informative good info. Thanks so much
Some outlets have those holes near screws and if you stick wire in that hole it let's you LOOP the wire and it won't come off even if screw is loose.
Love your videos keep them coming
Looks good. Was that neutral coming out from the screw when it was tightened. Hard to see. Anyway, one thing about leveling. You can leave the screws a tad loose, use the level to get the cover plumb/level then just remove the cover and tighten the screws down. You don't even need to put the screw on the cover until done. Extra step but its good fit and finish work.
I spent many years as a service electrician.
NEVER USE stab in the back connections.
If you tape the device do not use more than 2 wraps it’s a pain to work on
And may not fit back in the box, especially with GFCI's.
Awesome. Now I would like to request a video on removing wire from the insert holes. Most of my switches and receptacles are connected by the insert holes method and not the shepherd's book and screw method. I have tried 4 different tiny screw drivers but am unable to unlock the wire to release it.
Aka backstab
Did you mean shepherd's hook? I know electricians use their personal terminology, but jeez:p
For your issue, grab the wire close to the back and twist the receptacle while gently pulling.
I have done my own electrical for years, but after watching all these videos online I figured out I have done lot of incorrect work. I'm older so lot of this bad work was from the 90's and early 2000's when read 40 page electrical paperback found at HD.
Don't understand the DIY hate. I am a DIY'er and I watch your channel to learn how to do things right. Certainly the average person that wants to learn can change out a receptacle or switch without subjecting themselves to any more danger than using a ladder or saw. Anyway, thanks for what you do!
Love all these. Both DIY and Pro.
As a confessed DIY guy that is willing to jump into a lot of projects, I’ll say that if anything in this video surprised you, you probably shouldn’t do DIY electrical work yet. Good video.
Nice video and detailed explanation. But I am curious as to why you didn't mention grounding the metal box ?
Because this was a video on changing the receptacle.
Found one with the green screw on the same side as brass screw live side I have a video of it on my you tube
What is different about brown outlet - notice the green screw is on live side
I found this video so helpful however i was wondering if you could make a special video of a project that a friend and i want to make using a thick extension cord installed into a junction boxed with a wall outlet on it and then next to it a little bit of thick extension cord into another junction box to install a circuit breaker into the junction box and then will put a switch plate that is fully covered up with 2 screws that you have to unscrew to reset the circuit breaker if ever tripped. I wanted to know how to wire that so we can install a 15 amp circuit breaker to a 15 amp wall outlet receptacle. Could you please make a video on that?
What do you think of the new Leviton Edge products that use levers (like wago)? It would be cool to see a tear down of them to see how they work internally (and the quality of the backstrap, internal connectors, etc)
Great video!! I thought I read somewhere that it’s code to close screws when mounted in metal enclosures idk
You forgot the most important part the screws go up and down that sideways real electrician should know lol ❤ love your videos man
Thank you for all the good information, I have a question for you, I’m replacing receptacles and when doing the first one I found that the wires are too short, the wires are 12 gauge, can I make them longer with 14 gauge wire ? Thank you.
Thank you for your video, may I ask how many torches you set for tight and loose the screws of the receptacle.
I'm a DIY that took actual electrical classes at the community college.
A few things I'd like to add:
1. Make sure there is no insulation under the terminal screw
2. Make sure the bare wire of the hot and neutral does not extend past the device back.
3 Wiggle the device after installing the conductors and recheck for tightness.
What's your suggestion with dealing with stacons that were crimped tight in the box? Maybe 2-3" of wire. Yeah, I'd like to kick that 90's electrician in the back side for using back stabs and not leaving enough wire to change to terminal connections without adding pigtails.
Finally, Thanks for your more technical videos. They help me know what I want done when I need to hire an electrician.
If the panel is not marked - Plug a lamp into the receptacle, turn it on, open breakers until it goes out. I do check the receptacle with my Fluke 117 after I get it out of the box.
This video was very helpful and insightful. I am purchasing an appliance that has a Nema 5-20 and requires a 20 amp. My circuit breaker says 20amp but I have a 15amp receptacle. Should I swap out the receptacle with a 20amp receptacle or would an adapter be ok? Thanks.
I know the white must go to the silver screws and black must go to the brass screws but like in this video does it matter which brass screw the black goes to? Will it matter if its the top or bottom brass screw? Likewise, does it matter if the white wire goes to the top or bottom silver screw?
Thank you - excellent video. Would you have links for the tools?
Hello Sir, I like your style of teaching and appreciate you sharing your knowledge. I enjoy doing electrical projects/repairs, I probably should have chosen it for a career when I wore a younger man's clothes lol.
Anyway, I wanted to ask about a residential code, I had heard many years ago, was changing or suppose too change. Which is the installation of receptacles are supposed to be flipped over to have the ground hole on the top. Could you please clarify that for me? I don't see anyone doing it that way. Thank you.
And last but not least, leave the plate screw slot in the vertical position. 👍
I prefer horizontal but whatever way you choose make it consistent ✨️
A good video might be on NCVs.
They show potential. An open/loaded neutral gives off a huge magnetic field. NCVs can be an amazing tool if used properly.
I am a DIYer and also hoping to become an apprentice electrician within the next 6 mos. I greatly appreciate all of your videos!
I might have missed it, but does the metal junction box have to be grounded?