Just to be clear. I am not advocating homeowners do this type of work on a live panel. simply being honest in the fact that I was so we could make a good video about the process. Please do not work with the power on. Cheers!
@@ragebeau - so you'd rather have no video at all, with no safety advice. Anyone who watches this "Safety Third" channel knows that when Jell says 'dude, seriously, don't do this', you should probably listen. That said, Alex is completely right, it's not a complicated process with a live *residential* panel - as long as the main line has been installed and locked off, a 120v zap will suck, but it would take extreme misfortune to cause actual harm. Wire management is everything, so respect the electricity, take your time, plan properly, and then working live really isn't a big deal.
@@ragebeau ... right, because nobody would have figured out that a panel can be worked on live on their own... snore. SPECIFYING the risk is always better than ignoring it. That's all, I'm outta here.
Your disclaimer is fine except that for one ie the BC safety authority made it "illegal" to work on a live panel.. the clause being if there is absolutely no other way of doing so, and yes us electricians work live more often than we should, if caught we could get fined and even lose our ticket if we have multiple infractions like working without permits, letting apprentices work alone etc, there is a safe way of doing it, terminating the wire onto the breaker before attaching the breaker is a nono... sometimes on older panels the bus bar is sticky and trying to attach and remove a breaker it can happen you accidently turn it back on therefor increasing your risk of shock... ive worked with great electricians and with bad ones that shouldn't be walking with the amount of stupid they have done... of all the trades electrician is the most dangerous one...just because its in the disclaimer there are enough idiots that will copy your show and tell... in your disclaimer you should also say that any additions to the circuitry without permits aka done by the homeowner voids their house insurance..that is BC and pretty sure other places too.... I've read some other comments and am worried about the dumdums getting hurt, heck I've been licensed for 7years now and still get shocked almost monthly -only with the 120 but still ....
You just saved me $200! Electricians, like plumbers and HVAC guys, are very costly and often dishonest. This allowed me to replace a poorly installed breaker in one of our rental units. The entire panel was replaced and new copper mains (removing the old Al). The panel was PURPOSELY installed WITHOUT a main breaker, SO THAT YOU HAVE TO HIRE AN ELECTRICIAN to do repairs. THEN, OF COURSE, they installed the cheapest CRAP breakers. When the disposal unit leaked, it caused a short, and the breaker tripped and would not reset. So, most people would be forced to call in the thieves! Thanks to this and MANY of Jeff's videos, I DIDN'T get ripped off! Thanks Jeff!
Some tips: 1. Don't strip the sheathing off the NM (Romex) before insertion into the panel. It's unlikely, but that sheathing helps protect against damage to the conductors as it goes through the clamp. 2. Cut just the end of the NM sheathing and pull the ground through to open it up. It will open like a zipper, and there's no chance of the knife nicking a conductor. 3. No duggada gun. In theory, those terminals have torque specs, but at least use a screwdriver so you have a feel for tight. 4. Don't work hot unless you absolutely must, and if so, wear gloves and safety goggles. Yes, I've done it, but at least take some basic precautions if you do, and if you are a beginner, just don't do it. 5. No super sharp bends in wires if it can be avoided. Think slightly gentle sweeps. 6. Slow down and take your time. You want to avoid damaging the conductors and to make sure everything is tight. You're not an electrician on the clock, don't rush.
Are you an electrician? I am in a trade school studying to become an electrician and we were learned to strip the cable the way that Jeff do (only difference is we use an electrician knife) and we were also learned to strip the cable before entering it into the box.
@@williamsavaria9722 I did, though I don't work in the field now. It's common to cut the sheathing that way, and I admit to doing it, but for beginners it's not the safest way.
As an average home DIYer, I really appreciate these additional tips. It's amazing how many little things you don't think about that could make the job easier (or more importantly, safer).
I have a pair of Philips, slotted, and square drive insulated screw drivers specifically for electrical work. A drill is 100% not needed for this application.
I was sitting on the edge of my chair after Jeff said he was doing it on a live panel! I clicked expecting a LIVE broadcast and couldn't breath until Jeff finished. I was waiting for an arc and to see his bones lighting up like in a cartoon!
One thing that I was told early in my renos was to always use a long-shaft screwdriver instead of a drill, and after using both screwdriver and drill, I definitely agree with the advice. The tactile feel of getting that little bit of give on the copper to know that it's locked in place, over potentially over-torquing and compressing or even cutting the wire is very valuable. My best purchase for electrical was a rechargeable screwdriver (like $25). It doesn't have enough power to damage the wire, so let it spin until the motor complains, then give it a manual quarter-turn to lock the wire, and I've never had a connection slip or a damaged wire, plus wayyyy better dexterity than a drill.
On most half decent rechargeable drills you can set the torque. I use the drill every time for convenience. One quick squirt on a low setting and it's done. You need to experiment with the settings to find what's right with your drill.
to each there own, with the power driver set to the proper torque you wont over torque and damage the terminal? and it sure does help if you have carpel tunnel issues.... its the difference between night and day!
Hi Jeff, Usually when I work on live circuits, I use only one hand when hooking to the hot wire. This way I am sure that in the (unlikely 😉) eventuality of an an electric shock, the power will not reach my heart, closing the circuit between my 2 hands. Also AFAIK, a good practice is to use the right hand as the heart is tilted left. First I hook the ground and the neutral and lastly the hot wire, just as you did. Have fun !!!
I was taught mumble45mumbleyears ago to always keep one hand in your pocket when working on live circuits. Of course the master electrician teaching me never actually did that, lol Just like Jeff... do as I say, not as I do. Heh.
@@devilghost Nah he's saying he wish he had a dad to teach him some shit so he doesn't have to watch UA-cam videos for basic shit everyone should know how to do.
I work live panels all the time - my rule has always been only 1 hand in the box (and the other one touching nothing) unless absolutely necessary to have 2 in there. A shock across the hand is exciting but not life threatening. One that goes up your left hand/arm, across your chest and exits your right arm/hand is a different matter. Jeff, thanks for the video - I enjoy your style, banter and info... keep up the good work!!!
Exactly my rule as well plus if I do happen to have a helper with me I make sure there is something nonconductive close by. tell him if something happens to take it and hit the shit out of my hands.
Retired from an Utility Company ,and when I was Young ,was getting some field training on an Transformer 3 phase Electric Meter standing behind the Service Man Instructer .The meter had bad lightning arrestors and When He grabbed the Meter to Disconnect it ,it Exploded -Fireball ,I instinctively grabbed Him by His shirt collar and yanked Him away from it ,as We were both Lying upon the Ground He started lecturing Me about Current going through Him and therefore through Me! Dang!!!!
Hello, Jeff! Thank you for another great and comprehensive video! There is virtually no one else I trust on UA-cam when it comes to DIY projects of this sort of magnitude. Yesterday, I finished installing a 20A breaker dedicated for my home IT network. I am not an electrician by trade, but by "experience" --- lots of experience performing electrical work in both of my homes and most recently was my installing all the electrical conduits and infrastructure for our new outdoor patio, outdoor BBQ kitchen, fire pit, low voltage wiring, light switches, outlets, and landscaping lighting (walkway, stairs, sitting wall, etc.). I did hired an electrician to perform the final inspection and blessings before going live. I checked out your video yesterday because I needed a quick refresher course and your instructions were dead on. I read other comments from so-called "experts" criticizing your work here. I won't be surprised if folks criticize a UA-cam video demonstrating how to use a screwdriver to screw in a screw. Ha! Ha! Anyhow, one of your main suggestions in this video that helped is to always carefully and methodically approach this project and most importantly, ensure the new breaker is turned off. I don't have that level of expertise as you; so I turned off the main service panel and went to work. From the time I turned off the service panel to installing two 20A outlets in an old work 2 gang box, wiring, and finally installing the breaker, it took about 45 minutes. Of course, I checked and re-checked everything and once I was satisfied with the results, I went live! I checked everything with my tester for grounding and wiring: Pass! Of course, there was about two day's worth of planning: from planning to executing this DIY project. Thanks, Jeff!
@@HomeRenoVisionDIY hey Jeff, i am trying to add a LED LAMP to a CNC machine using 3 conductor wire. (cnc machine has electrical cabinet etc) do i need a breaker ??? or should i just ground it, find. a spot for white and black wires in the terminals?
As a working mom of 4 young children who STRUGGLES to make ends meet AND save at the same time, but also purchased a historic home (because it was economical) but finds herself constantly having to figure out how to DIY home repairs because it’s too expensive… you are a godsend.
I do a lot of live connections the important thing is to keep an eye on your hand a wire all the time What I would suggest is to insert the wire to the box closest to the breaker ( to keep them better organized) and use insulated screwdriver to fasten the wire instead of the drill gun.
Journeyman Electrician here.. (USA) What you did was fine. I hate the way you strip your wire, but everyone does it differently. People need to be super super careful with that bare ground wire. If that touches something it's not supposed to touch, and it's super super bad news.
@@anonymous..- who taught you to be a dick? Only insecure losers troll informal UA-cam comments for the sake of critiquing compositional style and vocabulary. Carry on anonymous keyboard warrior!
Love this demo. I installed a new whole house surge(50 amp), and have decided on a 30 amp breaker addition for the basement equipment. This is a great refresher course. Safety first.
Well another video from my buddy that saved the day. Learning so much through your videos and you take the nerves away from doing these things. Probably because you add a little bit of humor when you talk about the dangerous parts. Thanks again!!!
The first time I added a breaker to a live box was when I was working in one of my rentals and adding a breaker for the new furnace. I told the tenants I was shutting the power off to the whole unit (shutting the box off) and a dude ran down and said, "wait! I'm on a tether, you can't turn the power off or the cops will show up!" So I did it LIVE. :) I do it all the time now-a-days.
Jeff I have to say you are my hero! I've made some good money doing minor home repairs all from your videos. Thank you for such great content and keeping things simple and real!
Absolutely wonderful tutorial! you did it exactly like it suppose to be done! I always tell people to attach the hot wire to the breaker BEFORE you plug it into the buss.... love the video!
Being in the US, the horizontal panel was making my skin crawl lol. Great video tho! PS, the lack of depth perception from it being a video made me really nervous when you were pointing at the bus bars. 😂
As always very helpful, I ran the wire under ground in a plastic conduit but now need to run it too the breaker box and add a circuit breaker, 20 amp, was going to hire an electrician to do the install but I’m sure I could do it
As a master electrician he as a renovator should not be promoting people to work live on equipment if not qualified. Wear safety glasses. A piece of molten copper in your eye is not good. Don’t use a drill to tighten. Hand tighten by feel.
I have learned a ton from this channel but as an electrician i have to say .Never use a drill on lugs,Never attach wires to devices before you install them in a panel. When you install a breaker first hook it on the non conductive plastic(retaining) rail and it be properly orientated so when you swing it into buss it fit perfectly. Also DO try to land your neutral wires on the neutral buss so they match the breaker and be very neat about your wire routing both in and around the panel as workmanship can equal a fail or at least cause inspectors to look deeper into your job............ And get the Electrical Code Simplified by Knight Publishing. I think they have the residential edition at Home Depot.
Just want to say thanks to you I really enjoyed watching your videos and to let you know you have assisted me in remodeling my kitchen two bathrooms a 16 x 30‘ deck in the backyard which we enjoy build a spare room for my mother-in-law with a standing shower again I want to say thank you so much for all that you do
THANK you for telling people to LEAVE ENOUGH WIRE TO BE COMFORTABLE. Honestly - be nice to your future self and maybe the person who is working on this after you're gone won't be cursing your name for years on end.
Just swapped out several breakers for tandem breakers (my panel is 30 slots and rated for 30 tandems if I wanted) so I can finish out my basement and add two 30amp outlets for a server room. REALLY appreciate your videos!!!
Just want to thank you for all your videos! I live in Lake Charles, LA and after two hurricanes hitting my house im doing all repairs myself and your channel has helped so much! Keep up the good work
I have installed breakers into live panels, I would suggest the mandatory use of electrician screwdrivers and not use an electric drill for tightening up the screws.
I am in process of buying my first home and I thought the double taps would be a big deal and an expensive fix. After watching other videos and this one, I could easily fix the double taps myself and learn how to care for my home better too!
Jeff, I love all the down to earth videos of yours that I have watched, common sense, and very practical. You are going to have to lighten up on those 12 ounce curls you always joke about preferring to do on a weekend rather than whatever reno you happen to be in the middle of. You don't want to lose that youthful physique you have sported for so long as you enter your mid 30's. Seriously, I do appreciate all the great advice and tips that you have shared.
i mean you knew you'd get flak for doing it live and you were right. I know your not advocating for homeowners to do live work and ill throw in a few warnings for people who are considering it. Coming from an electrician here in Canada, we do do this stuff live from time to time but we shouldn't. Even as a trained professional, fully certified we can make a mistake which could be something stupid as all hell but if you touch a live piece of bus at 200Amps, even if its just 120v your most likely dead. You gotta stop and think is the saved inconvenience of going to get a light to do the work worth never seeing your family again if you push something into the bus. You could blind yourself via a arc flash in close range or simply die. I feel obligated to say that while some professionals do live work we are also trained and equipped. We know practices to keep one hand off contact so voltage won't pass through your chest, we use composite boots made for electrical work with soles that keep you from grounding, we use 1000v rated tools that are non conductive, etc. Just stay safe folks, no one thinks it will happen to them but compliancy kills and electricity can kill in a instant.
Can we please pin this comment. I NEVER wire a live box. I have two kids and a wife. It is not worth it. I am also a software engineer. I need my eyes to make a living. I want to upvote the above comment. Don't be ignorant. Safety regulations are put in place to save peoples lives.
@@andrewgluck8740 Just wanted to say he specifically says to not work on live power but I've known dozens of electricians and I've seen numerous times them wiring live. In this video though if ya noticed the main breaker switch is down so the power supply to box was off. It is a great video for helping individuals that need to do the job themselves for whatever their reason may be. My father-in-law was an electrician and I learned plenty from him.
@@twhis9843 @Andrew Glück Just wanted to say he specifically says to not work on live power but I've known dozens of electricians and I've seen numerous times them wiring live. In this video though if ya noticed the main breaker switch is down so the power supply to box was off. It is a great video for helping individuals that need to do the job themselves for whatever their reason may be. My father-in-law was an electrician and I learned plenty from him.
If you touch the bus bar inside of a 200 Amp panel, its no worse of a shock than touching the live screw on a 120v receptacle. I dont care if its a 400 Amp 120/240v panel. You'll get the exact same shock. Of course any shock is bad, iincluding the shock from touching a wire on a 120v 15amp circuit, but its a major misconception even among electricians to think that the shock will be any worse. The real hazard is the arcflash if you cause a short in the panel while working on it. And that flash/blast will be exponentially worse on larger panels.
Quick question. When you pointed to the AWG size on the wire strippers @6:27, why did you use the stranded wire labeled side when you were stripping solid core wire?
My son and I are rewiring his first house which was built in 1916 so we will be doing connections inside the service panel this was a good video to watch
Thanks again for the informative video. I have renovated so much following your videos. I added a shed to the house and just wanted to add a few outlets. This is so helpful!
I just had to do this last weekend to run an outlet for my new hot water heater. I would be too nervous to do it live though. I shut off the main before taking off the cover.
If you're going to do that you should really turn all the circuits off one by one before shutting off the main.. and on one by one after turning it back on.
Every wire stripper I have used puts a nick in the wire. So I start by putting 14awg wire in the 12awg spot and see if that cuts the insulation enough to remove it. I don’t know if I’m just doing it wrong but this fix alwas seems to work for me. If the larger hole doesn’t cut the insulation enough I then use the correct hole.
Going to have to upgrade my panel when I redo the kitchen. (Already in the budget) will be having it installed by the pros. Will assist with the connections if I can. Used to be an electrician in my younger days but haven’t been one for the last 30 years. No longer licensed. A lot had changed since then but the basic concept hasn’t. Am slowly upgrading all the plugs & switches as I go. A few of them are a bit nasty looking.
Another interesting subject would be to instruct flipping 240 to 120 - should it be a dedicated circuit. I learned this on my own, its not too hard. Also my bus bars were so old they had gathered grease and oxidation. For contact and safety I pulled out all the breakers and cleaned them with contact cleaner and a wire brush to prevent arc/heat.
Great demo, man !! I really like the way you suggest to leave a little bit of slack on the wires. As time goes on, someday an electrician will thank the last guy who left the extra wire. As panels fill up over the years due to an increase in circuit demands, we often have to get creative and start physically relocating wires. ( I’d MUCH prefer take a minute to relocate a complete cable than I would to simply splice and extend the hot. I find it is lazy to splice a hot if the option to physically relocate the whole cable is available). I know my next thoughts weren’t part of the point of your video, so it is possible you think about this stuff as a contracting consultant too. Since your panel has loads of available spaces, one thing I like to do in an Eaton panel is leave spaces 1,3 and 2,4 empty for a future surge protector and/or a future generator transfer breaker. The closer to the main panel 200 amp breaker, the more reliable a surge protector will work, so spaces 1,3 make a nice spot to reserve for that option. It’s been awhile since I installed a mechanical interlock but I think it goes on spaces 2,4. I generally mention the idea of generator backup to my clients whenever I am at their house, so why not position their panel to be easily generator- ready. Just forward thinking… cheers !!!
Great video. I'm installing an EMP SHIELD from a sub panel to a main Challenger panel. I'm using a new tandem 20/20 breaker. Does that type on breaker snap in the same way as the ones in your video?
Wow! I saw "breaker panel" and immediately knew I'd see a record number of negative comments. Bottom line: I learn from Jeff. I know my limits. I will never do this without a pro...because you know, I want to live. I would hope others have common sense to know this also.
a comment about safety is never negative. people see someone due something on a screen and copy it. locking out a circuit is a requirement in industrial job. some crews evan in residential its a automatic suspension and or termination, really hard to tell your co work woops im sorry you're dead.
I love all your content and have watched over 100 hours. That said, this is the first video that I had issue with. It's irresponsible to show diyers how to wire it live. You know your audience and you've made a living off it. Teach responsibility even if it's slightly inconvenient at times.
This is a great video. I may not ever need to install a beaker but I’m happy to have this information should I ever need to. Please keep up the great work! Thank you for demonstrating how a breaker can be safely installed live. I think I’ll wear a head lamp and turn off the main breaker but that’s my personal choice. Don’t stop making videos Jeff!
I work on live panels all the time. But I use insulated tools and don't wave them around within inches of the live buss bars. And perhaps most importantly, I'm quiet, focussed, and not yakking it up. It's when you're not concentrating that a tool, bare ground wire, or a finger can easily drift into a buss bar.
Our city has a code where all electrical wires must run through a metal conduit. Basically, you have to call an electrican with the specialized tools to bend all the pipes unless you're willing to spend all the money for the tools. That also means you are not running new wires behind the walls unless you tear down the drywalls. A lot of fun doing anything here.
I didn't see it in comments, but one breaker looked like one was arc-fault but the other wasn't. Is arc-fault recommended for outlets but not for lights? And one more question -- can you replace old breakers with arc-fault? Do you need to do anything with the outlets and wiring? As always, thanks for the great content. And if you really want to make people's head explode, replace pull a breaker without turning the panel off. My dad used to do that.
That is the 1st time I have seen a horizontally positioned panel. I just might consider doing that to mine because I need to upgrade to 200A and vertical space is limited.
I just spoke with a local electrical supplier, and they are running out of even the simplest breakers. The store manager noted that Covid has shut down much of Mexico where they do the majority of the manufacturing. They are also in short supply of certain plastic additives for the breakers, so are only manufacturing the most critical models. With the rise of mandatory arc fault in new panels, the building code supposedly is allowing temporary non-compliance due to no supply. Houses will be certified on condition that the contractor come back and change to AFCI once supply is back up. The issue with that is who's paying for them to come back? Put your house build on hold, or pay extra when the come to rework you new house to be code compliant. If you're doing any work on your panel, make sure you have sources for all your parts. PS: Jeff, wondering if you'd be interested in the BR230SUR or BR250SUR on your Eaton panel. I've had to shop around various suppliers in my area to find what I was looking for. No supply online even. The manager said that there's a panel manufacture in southern ontario, and they can't keep up with residential panel supply, so are limiting the number of orders. People's houses are being built with no main panel available or even on order!
I was previously an electrician, and the only time I ever installed breakers without turning the power off was when I pulled the meter to do a service upgrade. Just dont touch the bus bar at all, and you'll be fine. Also, be mindful of your ground wires. Cheers.
@@HomeRenoVisionDIY you can slip along the paper cord. Better to make a short cut at the landing end and score the outside romex without going al the way through. Pull the wire and scheth at right angle and it will peal without Risk of Nick and save time looking and taping.. love your channel just a tip.
I've seen countless wire knicks from guys saving time and getting lucky 20 years later... I have to fix what the last guy left always keep In mind someone else will eventually go behind you....
Thank you for the channel!! REALLY great material!! I purchased a house, and when I took the panel off, I see every wire with a wire nut! Like if the upgraded the panel but the wires were no longer long enough… one wire per breaker, no split, just like an extension…. Just I worry about it?
Hello Jeff, I was wondering if you could make a video like this but for 3 wire cable dual plug? What I mean is there some switch that require ground, neutral, hot and common (many smart switch). Also, in the kitchen, normally, each outlet are separate circuit (even top/bottom) since we use high power stuff. I think it's made using 2 breaker space, 1 neutral and 2 hot that are on different power line
I have a 16' ×21' living room and I am looking to install led pot lights.. looking recommendations for spacing and amount of light I would need? Thanks in advance
Thank you so much for the lesson! I really like the type of staple you used to keep the wire on the wall. Looks like it screws in right? I can't find them in store. Could you possibly send a link? Thank you so much again for saving everyone $$$
i just ran 20 circuits live like that. so much more convenient if you know what you're doing and you're careful. those metal breaker box covers never seem to line up perfectly with the breakers and the screw holes. they always need some coaxing to get them into place.
I've changed out sockets and switches and ceiling fans, but there's no way I've got the nerve to install a breaker! Thanks for the video, just in case I ever get up my nerve!! LOL
Unless you really know this person along with his knowledge, please do not say you can do it. In a court of law, that will give you all the liability if he gets hurt. Be Smart
Hey Jeff, I've always understood that you're not supposed to put tight kinks in wiring in the breaker panel as that can cause extra heat build up when current is passing through, increasing the chances of circuit failure if the metal breaks. All of the wiring in my breaker panel have gentle curves to them, basically no 90 degree or hairpin turns. Is that advice still in date?
Not really. But if you can, try to evenly lay out the breakers on each side so that you’re not drawing 100+ amps on one phase and like 30 or 40 amps on the second phase. Each service entrance cable is rated for a certain amperage. You don’t want to overload one of them because the breakers aren’t evenly laid out.
You can buy 2000 lumen battery powered work lights for around $12 each. They're brighter than a standard wired indoor light. They take basically no setup. They have a magnet or a hook or a handle so you can easily attach them to just about anything. They last about 2 hours on a charge, which is more than enough to make your video.
Just to be clear. I am not advocating homeowners do this type of work on a live panel. simply being honest in the fact that I was so we could make a good video about the process. Please do not work with the power on. Cheers!
@@ragebeau it can easily be done live by anybody with an ounce of common sense. Jeff just has to tell everybody not to so they don't sue him.
@@ragebeau which is exactly why we tell everybody else to not do it.
@@ragebeau - so you'd rather have no video at all, with no safety advice. Anyone who watches this "Safety Third" channel knows that when Jell says 'dude, seriously, don't do this', you should probably listen. That said, Alex is completely right, it's not a complicated process with a live *residential* panel - as long as the main line has been installed and locked off, a 120v zap will suck, but it would take extreme misfortune to cause actual harm. Wire management is everything, so respect the electricity, take your time, plan properly, and then working live really isn't a big deal.
@@ragebeau ... right, because nobody would have figured out that a panel can be worked on live on their own... snore. SPECIFYING the risk is always better than ignoring it. That's all, I'm outta here.
Your disclaimer is fine except that for one ie the BC safety authority made it "illegal" to work on a live panel.. the clause being if there is absolutely no other way of doing so, and yes us electricians work live more often than we should, if caught we could get fined and even lose our ticket if we have multiple infractions like working without permits, letting apprentices work alone etc, there is a safe way of doing it, terminating the wire onto the breaker before attaching the breaker is a nono... sometimes on older panels the bus bar is sticky and trying to attach and remove a breaker it can happen you accidently turn it back on therefor increasing your risk of shock... ive worked with great electricians and with bad ones that shouldn't be walking with the amount of stupid they have done... of all the trades electrician is the most dangerous one...just because its in the disclaimer there are enough idiots that will copy your show and tell... in your disclaimer you should also say that any additions to the circuitry without permits aka done by the homeowner voids their house insurance..that is BC and pretty sure other places too.... I've read some other comments and am worried about the dumdums getting hurt, heck I've been licensed for 7years now and still get shocked almost monthly -only with the 120 but still ....
You just saved me $200! Electricians, like plumbers and HVAC guys, are very costly and often dishonest. This allowed me to replace a poorly installed breaker in one of our rental units. The entire panel was replaced and new copper mains (removing the old Al). The panel was PURPOSELY installed WITHOUT a main breaker, SO THAT YOU HAVE TO HIRE AN ELECTRICIAN to do repairs. THEN, OF COURSE, they installed the cheapest CRAP breakers. When the disposal unit leaked, it caused a short, and the breaker tripped and would not reset. So, most people would be forced to call in the thieves! Thanks to this and MANY of Jeff's videos, I DIDN'T get ripped off! Thanks Jeff!
Some tips:
1. Don't strip the sheathing off the NM (Romex) before insertion into the panel. It's unlikely, but that sheathing helps protect against damage to the conductors as it goes through the clamp.
2. Cut just the end of the NM sheathing and pull the ground through to open it up. It will open like a zipper, and there's no chance of the knife nicking a conductor.
3. No duggada gun. In theory, those terminals have torque specs, but at least use a screwdriver so you have a feel for tight.
4. Don't work hot unless you absolutely must, and if so, wear gloves and safety goggles. Yes, I've done it, but at least take some basic precautions if you do, and if you are a beginner, just don't do it.
5. No super sharp bends in wires if it can be avoided. Think slightly gentle sweeps.
6. Slow down and take your time. You want to avoid damaging the conductors and to make sure everything is tight. You're not an electrician on the clock, don't rush.
Are you an electrician? I am in a trade school studying to become an electrician and we were learned to strip the cable the way that Jeff do (only difference is we use an electrician knife) and we were also learned to strip the cable before entering it into the box.
@@williamsavaria9722 I did, though I don't work in the field now. It's common to cut the sheathing that way, and I admit to doing it, but for beginners it's not the safest way.
As an average home DIYer, I really appreciate these additional tips. It's amazing how many little things you don't think about that could make the job easier (or more importantly, safer).
I have a pair of Philips, slotted, and square drive insulated screw drivers specifically for electrical work. A drill is 100% not needed for this application.
@@ZombieHedgehogMakes he can't help himself using the drill for anything and everything. Lol
I was sitting on the edge of my chair after Jeff said he was doing it on a live panel! I clicked expecting a LIVE broadcast and couldn't breath until Jeff finished. I was waiting for an arc and to see his bones lighting up like in a cartoon!
sorry to disappoint. Cheers!
Not sure the video wouldve been uploaded unfortunately hahaha.
One thing that I was told early in my renos was to always use a long-shaft screwdriver instead of a drill, and after using both screwdriver and drill, I definitely agree with the advice. The tactile feel of getting that little bit of give on the copper to know that it's locked in place, over potentially over-torquing and compressing or even cutting the wire is very valuable. My best purchase for electrical was a rechargeable screwdriver (like $25). It doesn't have enough power to damage the wire, so let it spin until the motor complains, then give it a manual quarter-turn to lock the wire, and I've never had a connection slip or a damaged wire, plus wayyyy better dexterity than a drill.
And wrap the shaft of that screwdriver with electrical tape. Wouldn’t be a bad idea to wrap the driver bit in electrical tape.
On most half decent rechargeable drills you can set the torque. I use the drill every time for convenience. One quick squirt on a low setting and it's done. You need to experiment with the settings to find what's right with your drill.
Crank the torque setting way down and then hand-tighten as needed.
The rechargeable electric screwdriver works great in this situation. However, not every DIY homeowner have all the tools to do these projects.
to each there own, with the power driver set to the proper torque you wont over torque and damage the terminal? and it sure does help if you have carpel tunnel issues.... its the difference between night and day!
Hi Jeff,
Usually when I work on live circuits, I use only one hand when hooking to the hot wire. This way I am sure that in the (unlikely 😉) eventuality of an an electric shock, the power will not reach my heart, closing the circuit between my 2 hands.
Also AFAIK, a good practice is to use the right hand as the heart is tilted left.
First I hook the ground and the neutral and lastly the hot wire, just as you did.
Have fun !!!
I was taught mumble45mumbleyears ago to always keep one hand in your pocket when working on live circuits. Of course the master electrician teaching me never actually did that, lol Just like Jeff... do as I say, not as I do. Heh.
Do you mean just use one hand to install the breaker after you wire it outside the panel?
Dude, you are the dad I never had but wish I did.
Mkay, that's kinda weird, brah.
So… are you going to call him daddy? Or just leaving me in suspense.
@@devilghost Nah he's saying he wish he had a dad to teach him some shit so he doesn't have to watch UA-cam videos for basic shit everyone should know how to do.
Same,
At least your mom didn’t abort ypu.
I work live panels all the time - my rule has always been only 1 hand in the box (and the other one touching nothing) unless absolutely necessary to have 2 in there. A shock across the hand is exciting but not life threatening. One that goes up your left hand/arm, across your chest and exits your right arm/hand is a different matter. Jeff, thanks for the video - I enjoy your style, banter and info... keep up the good work!!!
Exactly my rule as well plus if I do happen to have a helper with me I make sure there is something nonconductive close by. tell him if something happens to take it and hit the shit out of my hands.
Yup ,That will end You!
Retired from an Utility Company ,and when I was Young ,was getting some field training on an Transformer 3 phase Electric Meter standing behind the Service Man Instructer .The meter had bad lightning arrestors and When He grabbed the Meter to Disconnect it ,it Exploded -Fireball ,I instinctively grabbed Him by His shirt collar and yanked Him away from it ,as We were both Lying upon the Ground He started lecturing Me about Current going through Him and therefore through Me! Dang!!!!
I love this guy. I've learned SO much. He provides confidence and great context, with the heart of a teacher. Thank you!
I swear man you read my mind. Every time I'm going to do a project, you put out content on it. I'm not complaining. :-)
Hello, Jeff! Thank you for another great and comprehensive video! There is virtually no one else I trust on UA-cam when it comes to DIY projects of this sort of magnitude. Yesterday, I finished installing a 20A breaker dedicated for my home IT network. I am not an electrician by trade, but by "experience" --- lots of experience performing electrical work in both of my homes and most recently was my installing all the electrical conduits and infrastructure for our new outdoor patio, outdoor BBQ kitchen, fire pit, low voltage wiring, light switches, outlets, and landscaping lighting (walkway, stairs, sitting wall, etc.). I did hired an electrician to perform the final inspection and blessings before going live.
I checked out your video yesterday because I needed a quick refresher course and your instructions were dead on. I read other comments from so-called "experts" criticizing your work here. I won't be surprised if folks criticize a UA-cam video demonstrating how to use a screwdriver to screw in a screw. Ha! Ha!
Anyhow, one of your main suggestions in this video that helped is to always carefully and methodically approach this project and most importantly, ensure the new breaker is turned off.
I don't have that level of expertise as you; so I turned off the main service panel and went to work. From the time I turned off the service panel to installing two 20A outlets in an old work 2 gang box, wiring, and finally installing the breaker, it took about 45 minutes. Of course, I checked and re-checked everything and once I was satisfied with the results, I went live! I checked everything with my tester for grounding and wiring: Pass!
Of course, there was about two day's worth of planning: from planning to executing this DIY project. Thanks, Jeff!
Well Done. Cheers!
@@HomeRenoVisionDIY hey Jeff, i am trying to add a LED LAMP to a CNC machine using 3 conductor wire. (cnc machine has electrical cabinet etc) do i need a breaker ??? or should i just ground it, find. a spot for white and black wires in the terminals?
As a working mom of 4 young children who STRUGGLES to make ends meet AND save at the same time, but also purchased a historic home (because it was economical) but finds herself constantly having to figure out how to DIY home repairs because it’s too expensive… you are a godsend.
YES,
such videos ARE a Godsend!
My dad got electrocuted trying this u cruel man why would u do this to us. I can't believe u
I do a lot of live connections the important thing is to keep an eye on your hand a wire all the time
What I would suggest is to insert the wire to the box closest to the breaker ( to keep them better organized) and use insulated screwdriver to fasten the wire instead of the drill gun.
I do this with my old pushmatic breakers in my 1950 home.
its pretty safe.
i have only died twice.
I died reading this comment! 😂
🤣
Lol 😆
Nothing beats a Pushmatic joke.
Haha I hate putting in pushmatic breakers. I'll be I haven't seen any in a while.
Journeyman Electrician here.. (USA) What you did was fine. I hate the way you strip your wire, but everyone does it differently. People need to be super super careful with that bare ground wire. If that touches something it's not supposed to touch, and it's super super bad news.
Agreed. That rotating move would get old. I prefer cutting at a slight angle then just give a slight twist.
Super super bad news? Who taught you English?
@@anonymous..- who taught you to be a dick? Only insecure losers troll informal UA-cam comments for the sake of critiquing compositional style and vocabulary. Carry on anonymous keyboard warrior!
@@anonymous..- Who taught you manners? Do you always critique compositional structure and grammar on UA-cam comments?
@@anonymous..-nothing wrong with that English at all Skippy
Good safety advice (every professional says do as I say, not do as I do). Another informative video for the homeowner. Thanks Jeff.
You bet
Love this demo. I installed a new whole house surge(50 amp), and have decided on a 30 amp breaker addition for the basement equipment. This is a great refresher course.
Safety first.
Well another video from my buddy that saved the day. Learning so much through your videos and you take the nerves away from doing these things. Probably because you add a little bit of humor when you talk about the dangerous parts. Thanks again!!!
The first time I added a breaker to a live box was when I was working in one of my rentals and adding a breaker for the new furnace. I told the tenants I was shutting the power off to the whole unit (shutting the box off) and a dude ran down and said, "wait! I'm on a tether, you can't turn the power off or the cops will show up!" So I did it LIVE. :) I do it all the time now-a-days.
Jeff I have to say you are my hero! I've made some good money doing minor home repairs all from your videos. Thank you for such great content and keeping things simple and real!
I always learn something new from you. I’ve taught people from all over the world while I was in the military and you’re a great instructor. Thanks
Absolutely wonderful tutorial! you did it exactly like it suppose to be done! I always tell people to attach the hot wire to the breaker BEFORE you plug it into the buss.... love the video!
Being in the US, the horizontal panel was making my skin crawl lol. Great video tho! PS, the lack of depth perception from it being a video made me really nervous when you were pointing at the bus bars. 😂
Same
My panel (retrofit) is also horizontal, it was the only way to make all the existing wires fit into the panel due to length.
I thought the same but with all of his plumbing that high up the wall their wouldn’t have been room vertical
yeah then he had to label the breaker with vertical writing. Not ideal
I agree it’s crazy to see electrical panels horizontally it just doesn’t make sense to me
Best and most clear how to install breaker in fuse box. Great humor, safety warnings and description on the process. thank you.
Thanks yours is the only video that showed what to do with a pigtail arcfault circuit breaker! I really appreciate this!
As always very helpful, I ran the wire under ground in a plastic conduit but now need to run it too the breaker box and add a circuit breaker, 20 amp, was going to hire an electrician to do the install but I’m sure I could do it
All the master electricians have left the chat
Yep!
Skill set of a first year…sloppy sloppy.
Yes, because it looks like shit, no safety by wiring live, no torque driver..
As a master electrician he as a renovator should not be promoting people to work live on equipment if not qualified. Wear safety glasses. A piece of molten copper in your eye is not good. Don’t use a drill to tighten. Hand tighten by feel.
😂
Thanks!
I have learned a ton from this channel but as an electrician i have to say .Never use a drill on lugs,Never attach wires to devices before you install them in a panel. When you install a breaker first hook it on the non conductive plastic(retaining) rail and it be properly orientated so when you swing it into buss it fit perfectly. Also DO try to land your neutral wires on the neutral buss so they match the breaker and be very neat about your wire routing both in and around the panel as workmanship can equal a fail or at least cause inspectors to look deeper into your job............ And get the Electrical Code Simplified by Knight Publishing. I think they have the residential edition at Home Depot.
Just want to say thanks to you I really enjoyed watching your videos and to let you know you have assisted me in remodeling my kitchen two bathrooms a 16 x 30‘ deck in the backyard which we enjoy build a spare room for my mother-in-law with a standing shower again I want to say thank you so much for all that you do
using unisulated tools on a live breaker panel with no glasses, gloves or PPE ....very nice Jeff show the world how its done right
I hope he was standing barefoot in a puddle of water to complete the outfit 🤣
THANK you for telling people to LEAVE ENOUGH WIRE TO BE COMFORTABLE. Honestly - be nice to your future self and maybe the person who is working on this after you're gone won't be cursing your name for years on end.
Thank you much. Your Video and explanation are very clear and plain. I also would like to see with 3 wires which is neutral one. Awesome.
Just swapped out several breakers for tandem breakers (my panel is 30 slots and rated for 30 tandems if I wanted) so I can finish out my basement and add two 30amp outlets for a server room. REALLY appreciate your videos!!!
Just want to thank you for all your videos! I live in Lake Charles, LA and after two hurricanes hitting my house im doing all repairs myself and your channel has helped so much! Keep up the good work
Glad to help
I have installed breakers into live panels, I would suggest the mandatory use of electrician screwdrivers and not use an electric drill for tightening up the screws.
I am in process of buying my first home and I thought the double taps would be a big deal and an expensive fix. After watching other videos and this one, I could easily fix the double taps myself and learn how to care for my home better too!
Jeff, I love all the down to earth videos of yours that I have watched, common sense, and very practical. You are going to have to lighten up on those 12 ounce curls you always joke about preferring to do on a weekend rather than whatever reno you happen to be in the middle of. You don't want to lose that youthful physique you have sported for so long as you enter your mid 30's. Seriously, I do appreciate all the great advice and tips that you have shared.
This video is right on time for me! I want to add a new breaker for garage outlets! And maybe a 240 plug!
i mean you knew you'd get flak for doing it live and you were right. I know your not advocating for homeowners to do live work and ill throw in a few warnings for people who are considering it. Coming from an electrician here in Canada, we do do this stuff live from time to time but we shouldn't. Even as a trained professional, fully certified we can make a mistake which could be something stupid as all hell but if you touch a live piece of bus at 200Amps, even if its just 120v your most likely dead. You gotta stop and think is the saved inconvenience of going to get a light to do the work worth never seeing your family again if you push something into the bus. You could blind yourself via a arc flash in close range or simply die. I feel obligated to say that while some professionals do live work we are also trained and equipped. We know practices to keep one hand off contact so voltage won't pass through your chest, we use composite boots made for electrical work with soles that keep you from grounding, we use 1000v rated tools that are non conductive, etc. Just stay safe folks, no one thinks it will happen to them but compliancy kills and electricity can kill in a instant.
Can we please pin this comment. I NEVER wire a live box. I have two kids and a wife. It is not worth it. I am also a software engineer. I need my eyes to make a living. I want to upvote the above comment. Don't be ignorant. Safety regulations are put in place to save peoples lives.
@@andrewgluck8740 Just wanted to say he specifically says to not work on live power but I've known dozens of electricians and I've seen numerous times them wiring live. In this video though if ya noticed the main breaker switch is down so the power supply to box was off. It is a great video for helping individuals that need to do the job themselves for whatever their reason may be. My father-in-law was an electrician and I learned plenty from him.
@@twhis9843 @Andrew Glück Just wanted to say he specifically says to not work on live power but I've known dozens of electricians and I've seen numerous times them wiring live. In this video though if ya noticed the main breaker switch is down so the power supply to box was off. It is a great video for helping individuals that need to do the job themselves for whatever their reason may be. My father-in-law was an electrician and I learned plenty from him.
If you touch the bus bar inside of a 200 Amp panel, its no worse of a shock than touching the live screw on a 120v receptacle. I dont care if its a 400 Amp 120/240v panel. You'll get the exact same shock. Of course any shock is bad, iincluding the shock from touching a wire on a 120v 15amp circuit, but its a major misconception even among electricians to think that the shock will be any worse. The real hazard is the arcflash if you cause a short in the panel while working on it. And that flash/blast will be exponentially worse on larger panels.
Quick question. When you pointed to the AWG size on the wire strippers @6:27, why did you use the stranded wire labeled side when you were stripping solid core wire?
Please do a vid how to add a 220v to the garage, for a welder or even car charging.
Thanks for great content as always.
Yes learning to do 3 phase would be great.
It's like 120, but with an extra hot wire and a double breaker. Well, a little more than that but pretty simple.
@@dustman96 yea i was going to say...not much different just an extra wire....depending on the amperage bigger wire
@@MrBigjimbrown 220v is not 3 phase, also hardly any homes in the US have 3 phase.
@@MrBigjimbrown You would likely have to have your hydro company run 3phase to your house. Residential homes don't typically have that.
Excellent video! Straight forward and to the point with some humor thrown in. Thank you!!
My son and I are rewiring his first house which was built in 1916 so we will be doing connections inside the service panel this was a good video to watch
I am so glad you do what you do. You have helped me tremendously! I like how you make it real.
Thanks again for the informative video. I have renovated so much following your videos. I added a shed to the house and just wanted to add a few outlets. This is so helpful!
I just had to do this last weekend to run an outlet for my new hot water heater. I would be too nervous to do it live though. I shut off the main before taking off the cover.
That is because you are smart. Electrical safety is no joke. Zero reasons to work a panel hot when it is easily shut-off.
Great job!
If you're going to do that you should really turn all the circuits off one by one before shutting off the main.. and on one by one after turning it back on.
@@JustinL614 Why?
@@seeya205 Wondering the same. After all, when there's a power outage, they all go off and come back on at the same time.
Teaches us how to expertly shake metal tools at a live panel :)⚡
Know what your doing...or call a sparky...
Thank You for your solid work Jeff.
so much extra wires 👀 the perfectionist in me is screaming
Every wire stripper I have used puts a nick in the wire. So I start by putting 14awg wire in the 12awg spot and see if that cuts the insulation enough to remove it. I don’t know if I’m just doing it wrong but this fix alwas seems to work for me.
If the larger hole doesn’t cut the insulation enough I then use the correct hole.
Thanks so much, this video was very helpful. Was very detailed and easy to follow. Great Job
Going to have to upgrade my panel when I redo the kitchen. (Already in the budget) will be having it installed by the pros. Will assist with the connections if I can. Used to be an electrician in my younger days but haven’t been one for the last 30 years. No longer licensed. A lot had changed since then but the basic concept hasn’t. Am slowly upgrading all the plugs & switches as I go. A few of them are a bit nasty looking.
Thanks so much for the video! Extremely helpful!
Best vid on breakers! Big thnx.
I always work with the power on. Keeps you honest.
Another interesting subject would be to instruct flipping 240 to 120 - should it be a dedicated circuit. I learned this on my own, its not too hard. Also my bus bars were so old they had gathered grease and oxidation. For contact and safety I pulled out all the breakers and cleaned them with contact cleaner and a wire brush to prevent arc/heat.
Great demo, man !! I really like the way you suggest to leave a little bit of slack on the wires. As time goes on, someday an electrician will thank the last guy who left the extra wire. As panels fill up over the years due to an increase in circuit demands, we often have to get creative and start physically relocating wires. ( I’d MUCH prefer take a minute to relocate a complete cable than I would to simply splice and extend the hot. I find it is lazy to splice a hot if the option to physically relocate the whole cable is available).
I know my next thoughts weren’t part of the point of your video, so it is possible you think about this stuff as a contracting consultant too. Since your panel has loads of available spaces, one thing I like to do in an Eaton panel is leave spaces 1,3 and 2,4 empty for a future surge protector and/or a future generator transfer breaker. The closer to the main panel 200 amp breaker, the more reliable a surge protector will work, so spaces 1,3 make a nice spot to reserve for that option. It’s been awhile since I installed a mechanical interlock but I think it goes on spaces 2,4. I generally mention the idea of generator backup to my clients whenever I am at their house, so why not position their panel to be easily generator- ready. Just forward thinking… cheers !!!
Entertaining. Simple. Short. Perfect. Thank you.
Great 👍 video our home electric panel was build 1981 by amateur need new one
Your insight are completely honest
To hank you Jeff
You're a genius! And your smile makes me choose your videos over others lol
Great video. I'm installing an EMP SHIELD from a sub panel to a main Challenger panel. I'm using a new tandem 20/20 breaker. Does that type on breaker snap in the same way as the ones in your video?
Thank you for the video. I knew I could do it but just needed verification 😊. You have great videos.
Wow! I saw "breaker panel" and immediately knew I'd see a record number of negative comments. Bottom line: I learn from Jeff. I know my limits. I will never do this without a pro...because you know, I want to live. I would hope others have common sense to know this also.
a comment about safety is never negative. people see someone due something on a screen and copy it. locking out a circuit is a requirement in industrial job. some crews evan in residential its a automatic suspension and or termination, really hard to tell your co work woops im sorry you're dead.
I am installing a solar system into a van, still has a breaker box to learn about from you! Thanks!
GOD BLESS you. You guys rock. Thank you guys for being the best and detailed.
I love all your content and have watched over 100 hours.
That said, this is the first video that I had issue with. It's irresponsible to show diyers how to wire it live. You know your audience and you've made a living off it. Teach responsibility even if it's slightly inconvenient at times.
SCREW IT WE’LL DO IT LIVE! WE’LL DO IT LIVE!!!! As a diyer getting ready to install a new circuit breaker I was nervous watching you wire it live!!!!
This is a great video. I may not ever need to install a beaker but I’m happy to have this information should I ever need to.
Please keep up the great work! Thank you for demonstrating how a breaker can be safely installed live. I think I’ll wear a head lamp and turn off the main breaker but that’s my personal choice.
Don’t stop making videos Jeff!
Can I bend the terminal into a U shape to double contact points/surface area into the breaker? Thanks
This is the best video on UA-cam, plus you’re awesome.
People like you are why we have instruction stickers on ladders.
Someday you should do a video on how to add subpanel that would be great !
Coming soon!
Sorry I missed the live broadcast last weekend.
Pointing at everything in the panel with your tools 😱😱
I work on live panels all the time. But I use insulated tools and don't wave them around within inches of the live buss bars. And perhaps most importantly, I'm quiet, focussed, and not yakking it up. It's when you're not concentrating that a tool, bare ground wire, or a finger can easily drift into a buss bar.
loving the decora cover on the tranditional receptacle.. haha
and using the 14 stranded instead of the 14 solid on the strippers!!!
Our city has a code where all electrical wires must run through a metal conduit. Basically, you have to call an electrican with the specialized tools to bend all the pipes unless you're willing to spend all the money for the tools. That also means you are not running new wires behind the walls unless you tear down the drywalls. A lot of fun doing anything here.
That's crazy and so overkill..
I didn't see it in comments, but one breaker looked like one was arc-fault but the other wasn't. Is arc-fault recommended for outlets but not for lights?
And one more question -- can you replace old breakers with arc-fault? Do you need to do anything with the outlets and wiring?
As always, thanks for the great content.
And if you really want to make people's head explode, replace pull a breaker without turning the panel off. My dad used to do that.
That is the 1st time I have seen a horizontally positioned panel. I just might consider doing that to mine because I need to upgrade to 200A and vertical space is limited.
Very informative. I hope you will talk about 220 v in future. 👍
I just spoke with a local electrical supplier, and they are running out of even the simplest breakers. The store manager noted that Covid has shut down much of Mexico where they do the majority of the manufacturing. They are also in short supply of certain plastic additives for the breakers, so are only manufacturing the most critical models.
With the rise of mandatory arc fault in new panels, the building code supposedly is allowing temporary non-compliance due to no supply. Houses will be certified on condition that the contractor come back and change to AFCI once supply is back up. The issue with that is who's paying for them to come back?
Put your house build on hold, or pay extra when the come to rework you new house to be code compliant.
If you're doing any work on your panel, make sure you have sources for all your parts.
PS: Jeff, wondering if you'd be interested in the BR230SUR or BR250SUR on your Eaton panel.
I've had to shop around various suppliers in my area to find what I was looking for. No supply online even.
The manager said that there's a panel manufacture in southern ontario, and they can't keep up with residential panel supply, so are limiting the number of orders. People's houses are being built with no main panel available or even on order!
I was previously an electrician, and the only time I ever installed breakers without turning the power off was when I pulled the meter to do a service upgrade. Just dont touch the bus bar at all, and you'll be fine. Also, be mindful of your ground wires. Cheers.
What scares me is his knife use. Easy to knick a wire.....
perhaps you missed the instruction as to how to cut the wire casing. If you can't do that find a new job like digging a ditch
@@HomeRenoVisionDIY you can slip along the paper cord. Better to make a short cut at the landing end and score the outside romex without going al the way through. Pull the wire and scheth at right angle and it will peal without Risk of Nick and save time looking and taping.. love your channel just a tip.
I've seen countless wire knicks from guys saving time and getting lucky 20 years later... I have to fix what the last guy left always keep In mind someone else will eventually go behind you....
@@adamlewellen5081 There in no paper in NMD 90. Its not Romex. Thats how we strip wires in Canada.
Thank you for the channel!! REALLY great material!!
I purchased a house, and when I took the panel off, I see every wire with a wire nut! Like if the upgraded the panel but the wires were no longer long enough… one wire per breaker, no split, just like an extension…. Just I worry about it?
as long as they are not loose it is fine. Cheers!
Hello Jeff, I was wondering if you could make a video like this but for 3 wire cable dual plug? What I mean is there some switch that require ground, neutral, hot and common (many smart switch). Also, in the kitchen, normally, each outlet are separate circuit (even top/bottom) since we use high power stuff. I think it's made using 2 breaker space, 1 neutral and 2 hot that are on different power line
Next video should be how to do CPR on an electrical shock victim. Love your other videos Jeff but, damn, you blew it on this one mate.
From the alley can you jump a switch to bring another light to a different directions
Thanks for this awesome video. 👌 content for small project diy owners.
I have a 16' ×21' living room and I am looking to install led pot lights.. looking recommendations for spacing and amount of light I would need? Thanks in advance
Jeff how did you know my (new!!) sewing machine doesn't play nice with my AFCI circuit breakers 👀
Great video thanks! It would help to talk about and use more PPE. Mostly, the rubber-sole shoes you are wearing!!!
Thank you so much for the lesson! I really like the type of staple you used to keep the wire on the wall. Looks like it screws in right? I can't find them in store. Could you possibly send a link? Thank you so much again for saving everyone $$$
You sound like Red Green! Love it!
i just ran 20 circuits live like that. so much more convenient if you know what you're doing and you're careful. those metal breaker box covers never seem to line up perfectly with the breakers and the screw holes. they always need some coaxing to get them into place.
Are you watching me? I was just planning out the weekend to put in my first breakers ever. Thanks for the vid!
He's not but I am...love what you've been doing by the way looks great
your not even subscribed to my channel. Why would I watch you?
@@HomeRenoVisionDIY I'm totally subscribed! and a long-time viewer :)
This was great. I'm about to add another breaker to my garage.
I've changed out sockets and switches and ceiling fans, but there's no way I've got the nerve to install a breaker! Thanks for the video, just in case I ever get up my nerve!! LOL
You can do it!
Unless you really know this person along with his knowledge, please do not say you can do it. In a court of law, that will give you all the liability if he gets hurt. Be Smart
Hey Jeff, I've always understood that you're not supposed to put tight kinks in wiring in the breaker panel as that can cause extra heat build up when current is passing through, increasing the chances of circuit failure if the metal breaks. All of the wiring in my breaker panel have gentle curves to them, basically no 90 degree or hairpin turns. Is that advice still in date?
Not really. But if you can, try to evenly lay out the breakers on each side so that you’re not drawing 100+ amps on one phase and like 30 or 40 amps on the second phase. Each service entrance cable is rated for a certain amperage. You don’t want to overload one of them because the breakers aren’t evenly laid out.
If the gauge of wire matches the breaker size, there shouldn’t be any heating unless you really damage the wire with a nick or pinch.
You can buy 2000 lumen battery powered work lights for around $12 each. They're brighter than a standard wired indoor light. They take basically no setup. They have a magnet or a hook or a handle so you can easily attach them to just about anything. They last about 2 hours on a charge, which is more than enough to make your video.
Like you sense of humor. 😁
Great job brother, love your presentation tutorial...