I Discovered This Hidden Wiring Trick In An Old Forum!

Summary

In this informative video, the host shares a time-saving and comfort-enhancing trick for wiring new or old electrical boxes, originally discussed by Jay Fletcher on Mike Holtz's electrical forum. The technique involves pre-wiring outlets and switches with pigtails at a comfortable workspace, such as a well-lit workbench, before quickly installing them in the boxes. This method not only speeds up the process but also improves working conditions. The host also recommends using Southwire box jaw wire strippers for easier wire preparation and suggests applying Wago 221s directly to the wires at the box for continuity. Additionally, two extra tips are provided: using Wago connectors without lifting the levers for solid wires to save time, and partially wrapping the bottom of lever nuts with electrical tape to prevent snagging during installation or servicing, while still allowing for visibility and easy wire removal.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Discovered a genius trick for wiring electrical boxes that speeds up the process and makes it more comfortable.
• 🎉 Credits to Jay Fletcher for sharing the idea on Mike Holtz electrical forum, which can be found in the video description.
• 🔌 The technique is applicable for both new and old work electrical installations, including outlets and light switches.
• 🛠️ Traditionally, wiring involves on-site cutting, stripping, and fastening wires, which can be uncomfortable and time-consuming.
• 🚀 Using Wago connectors allows pre-wiring outlets and switches with pigtails at a comfortable location like a workbench.
• 🧩 Pre-wired components can be quickly installed at each box, saving time and effort on-site.
• 🔩 For continuity, Wago 221s are applied directly to the wires at the box rather than the outlet or switch.
• 📦 Box preparation is simplified, requiring only wire and jacket strippers, avoiding Shepherd's hooks, screws, and screwdrivers.
• 🏗️ After box prep, drywall team and painters can proceed, with electricians returning later to finish the electrical work.
• 📈 The presenter aims to reach 1 million subscribers on YouTube and encourages viewers to subscribe for more DIY content.
• 💡 Provides additional tips for even faster and safer wiring, including not lifting the levers on Wago connectors for solid wires and addressing concerns about lever handles snagging with partial electrical tape wrapping.

Q & A

What is the main trick shared by Jay Fletcher in the video?

The main trick shared by Jay Fletcher is a method for wiring up new work electrical boxes that makes the process faster and more comfortable. This involves pre-wiring outlets and switches with pigtails at a comfortable location like a workbench before installing them quickly at each box.

What are the benefits of using Wago connectors as mentioned in the video?

Wago connectors allow for quick and easy connections without the need for tools. They can be used to pre-wire outlets and switches with pigtails in a comfortable and well-lit environment, which speeds up the installation process at the box.

What is the advantage of pre-wiring at a workbench?

Pre-wiring at a workbench allows for better control over lighting and more comfortable working conditions. It ensures that every wire is properly fastened to the terminal screws, and the screws are properly tightened, leading to a higher quality job.

What type of wire is it possible to connect without lifting the levers of Wago connectors?

Solid wires can be connected without lifting the levers of Wago connectors, saving time for every connection.

What is the concern raised about Wago and Ideal lever nuts, and how is it addressed in the video?

The concern is about the possibility of the lever handles coming up and getting snagged while being pushed into the box or during servicing. The video suggests wrapping only the bottom portion of the lever nut with electrical tape to secure it while still allowing visibility of the connections and the ability to quickly unlatch the terminals.

What tool does the video recommend for stripping 12 or 14 gauge wires?

The video recommends using Southwire box jaw wire strippers for stripping 12 or 14 gauge wires, as they allow for easy stripping right inside the box.

What is the purpose of the transparent housing in Wago connectors?

The transparent housing in Wago connectors allows users to visibly inspect and ensure that the wires are set properly within the connector.

How does the video suggest using Leviton Decora Edge Outlets to simplify the process?

The video suggests that Leviton Decora Edge Outlets simplify the process because they do not require screws or a screwdriver, making the wiring process even easier and quicker.

What is the significance of the video creator's 13th year of making DIY videos?

The significance is that it marks a milestone in the creator's career, and one of their goals for the year is to reach 1 million subscribers, which they view as a measure of success and engagement with their audience.

What is the video creator's stance on the return of cream-colored outlets?

The video creator is not a fan of the cream-colored outlets making a comeback, but acknowledges that trends in colors and styles are cyclical and inevitable.

What is the additional resource mentioned for homeowners to learn more about various home improvement skills?

The additional resource mentioned is PowerHomeOwner.com, where homeowners can enter their email to get updates and early access to new content related to basic electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and drywall skills.