Sub Panel I Recommend: amzn.to/4eUv5jl Tool Deals on Milwaukee, Dewalt, Makita & More: acmetools.pxf.io/9gRWRy Tip Jar: www.paypal.com/paypalme/bensahlstrom You guys are awesome. As an affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.
some of those brands assuming you have them yourself or this is all yoru collection but some of them you would be better off buying the ryobi kits at home depot or milwakee either the bottom or the top not warrior or skil. and central pnematic might as well just go to harbor freight
Ben, I know this video was three years ago, but man, it's a lifesaver. I recently had to wire a new shed, and I couldn't have gotten the sub-panel in the right way without it. I have a friend who used to be an inspector in a neighboring county, and he came to look it over before it gets inspected next week, and he told me that my wiring was better than some electrician's stuff he'd seen. All that is because of you. Thank you!
Hands-down best subpanel installation video on TH-cam. Thoroughly explained in a clear and concise manner, and some of the dry comedic relief had me rolling. Great job sir! Exceptional!
Unlike many DYI TH-cam videos, you actually SHOW what you are doing along with your comments. Great camera work. Oh yes, the sound is also excellent. Thank You
Thanks! I successfully wired my subpanel and ran about 80' of wire and it was probably about 90% due to the information you provided in this and other videos. So fun learning and really felt great when I turned everything on and nothing exploded and all my tests and checks went perfect.. thanks to all of the helpful commenters as well.. I followed every piece of advice I could find.
For the most part you do considerably better then some journeyman and I very impressed with your level of self taught education. But some points to consider. 1) Consider a LR #2 (Locked Recess) driver. I believe some people call it a Robertson. 2) You showed EMT from the panel to the ceiling and you installed PVC. This is NEC for the physical protection of NM cable below 8'. And I would never run NM down a conduit without a connector to protect the wire. Most AHJ's would require a pipe to NM connector transition connector. 3) This next one would be a point of debate among electricians on your placement of the 1/2 PVC conduit. Myself I always work from the outside in. Reason is that when I come back to install another conduit or 2, conductors are not in my way and subject to physical damage when removing knock outs or fishing in new cable. 4) I NEVER loop my wires in a panel. It is messy. Industrial maintenance people would do this because they where constantly moving machines and motors and such. In a commercial or a residential application the odds moving that breaker in the next 20 years or so is extremely unlikely. And it makes it way more difficult to add new circuits. 5) On the neutral and ground bars I never run my wire wild thru. If there is a piece sticking thru I nip it short after installation so it is nice and clean and no sharp objects sticking thru. 6) In the video NEVER make up the main breaker first....what happens if your working with a partner, or breaker is bad or you catch it with another wire and you energize that breaker? It creates a deadly situation. Phase conductors are always last. Order of landing conductors is ground, neutral and phase. this is for your safely so a ground is established for your safety. If for some reason you had to disconnect hot then reverse order (Phase, neutral (Potential Load) and ground) is the correct method. 7) PVC inside a building i almost never do. CODE does not say you can't but some jurisdictions it is. If there is a fire PVC can emit toxic gases. 8) Always tell your subscribers every video to Check State and Local addendum's to the code that have been passed. The NEC is the bases, Local and state can regulate above and beyond the code. I say this as a legal stand point so you don't come in conflict with another city, state code addendum and your subscribers. All in all your bases of understanding surpasses most journeyman.
THANK YOU for sharing your expertise. I think I'll pin your comment to the top as this information is extremely relevant and helpful. Blessings to you and yours!
Ben, for being only 16 years old, you are pretty knowledgeable! What a great teacher you are. Talented and humble at the same time. Incredible combination! (Steady camera and no dumb music is appreciated) Good luck to you.
I haven't heard the word uff da in about 30 years when I was stationed in North Dakota in the Air Force. Great video for my upcoming electrical project.
Love your videos and Electrical work! My dad was a master electrician for 40+ years and I worked many jobs with him both as a kid and adult. He passed away from cancer in 09:( and now I do all my electrical jobs with my two sons:). Your way of teaching is excellent and reminds me of my dad:) I love all things electrical!! Keep the videos coming. I'm definitely a fan!!
Great job! Super informative and you explain things very clearly! I've been in the industrial instrument and electrical trade for over 25 years. It's nice to see young guys picking up the trade and mastering it. My only advice is to always verify zero energy using a meter, saved me a few times. Great job!
Ben, Coming from a career mechanical engineer, MBA Ohio State, and military jet pilot and instructor. Exposed to lots of public speaking training and experience including "charm school where they teach you how to Teach". ---- Probably one of the best how-to videos I've ever seen ! ----- Not only was the tech top-notch, continually emphasizing turning the power on and off and calling out the Hot lugs was fantastic. THANKS. Good job.
Thanks for posting this video. I just finished installing a sub panel in my house and your video was absolutely essential to my success with that project. If I hadn't come across your video, I probably would not have been able to do this. You walked me through all of the steps and helped me to make sure I had everything I needed for this project. Really terrific video!
Good Day Benjamin : Over all you did very well explaining everything! I was a bit concerned though when I saw you cut open and striped your 12 gauge wire run in to the new panel box. ( 26.20 ) reference frame in video. It would be better if about a few inches from the end of the wire... use your knife as you did and cut the outer cover... Then grab hold of the 3 wires in side with one hand and outer cover with other hand and tear apart up to what is needed. Don't risk nicking the wire the way you did it. Good Job over all with all respect!
WHAT A AMAZING VIDEO ! No long introduction or stupid loud music. You explained how, the grounds, neutral so clear . I think all diy videos need your videos as an example . THANKS FOR SAVING ME HOURS watching frustrating videos .
One thing to add: I would highly recommend spanning two joists with your plywood mounting panel. Relying on one stud to mount the panel allows it to wiggle side to side and will likely become loose over time with use.
Our Canadian electrical code requires the main breaker to be in separate main panel metal section, with no load breaker wires feeding through main breaker enclosure. This would make working safe when main power is turned off. I like you showing the wiggle wire when tightening stranded . Very good teacher.
Due to electricians being so busy, I wired my new shop build and am preparing to connect sub-panel in the shop from another sub-panel. This video placed many of the puzzle pieces together for me to continue progress on doing that. Much appreciated and I DIG the singing interruption and the facial expressions.
Electrical work is surprisingly easy. It took me about 3 hours to run 2 dedicated lines about 30 feet each, 1 dedicated line only about a foot, 3 GFCI outlets, 2 regular outlets from 2 of the GFCIs, remove a burnt outlet and box and remove and replace 2 breakers with CAFCI breakers. It would have been even faster if my box had been a plug on neutral box or if they had wired things correctly to begin with, but I couldn't leave the last outlet on a 20 amp breaker with 16 gauge wire running to it.
Good job. Had to smile when you put your sister on. Ether camera shy. Or just wasn’t expecting the surprise sudden camera exposure. Thanks for the clear and very informative video.
Thanks for that detailed hookup of the sub panel . for me, you have the over alll best presentation for getting all the the parts and hookups understood. Thank you
As a former maintenance manager at a major food processing plant I would have used this video and comments as an educational video. We provided specific NFPA 70E training to our state licensed electricians but what this video shows is industrial or residential is regulated by the NFPA. Good stuff guys. Carry on.
Enjoy your videos. I've been doing electrical work (self taught) over the last 40 years in 30 odd houses in succession. I know I was successful in my installations as none of the houses have burned down nor people dying from electrical shocks. But, I still have more to learn. I've lived overseas for 20 years (six houses) and still trying to understand their system. I'm installing a subpanel and gained insight from your video to adapt to this system. Again, no building burned down nor people shocked into the ether. I must be doing something right. Seeing how life gets in a way while you're working is refreshing from the standard technical videos. Very enjoyable.
Thank you so much for doing a start to finish from the main panel to the subpanel. I’ve been watching for hours different videos. Yours is the only one inclusive that tells the whole story. Thanks again man.
Ben - I watched this video several years ago out of curiosity. Now that I'm in a different house I looked for it specifically because I remembered it being such good instruction. My memory was correct. I'm about ready to do the same thing in this house - my main panel is full and I need additional capacity in my garage. Thanks for the help.
I found the format and length of this video to be next to perfect for a DIY homeowner like myself. Covered many small details that others tend to leave out, such as wire gauge information. Keep up the good work! Earned a sub from me.
When “chamfering” the conduit, rather than breaking and bending your utility knife blades, you can stick the nose end of your pump pliers in there and twist it around a few times. Then open them up and twist them around the outside to nab the last little jagged edges. Great video so far!
Great instruction for the most part. I can tell you that if you go to an electric supply house, you can get #3 THHN in various colors. Also, I've always seen the breaker landed first then the wire added. Whatever is easiest i guess.
Thank you so much for this video! Between what I had learned earlier and after watching you video, I installed a sub panel next to the main panel in my basement. No troubleshooting needed, worked perfectly the first time!! I already have two circuits on it. Next project will be the generator inlet since I recently scored a Tri Fuel generator on sale at Costco. Guys like you are what TH-cam should be all about. Sharing knowledge, educating, being willing to admit you don't have all the answers and just generally making peoples lives better. I have photos of the project if you are interested. Thanks again.
9:55 How to fix your PVC cement bottle start to finish! Once you get the cap off the PVC cement bottle, put a thin film of Vassoline on the male threads. This will prevent the cap from gluing itself onto the threads. Making it very easy to get it off the next time you use it.
Dude, well done! Even my wife sitting over there on the couch commented how direct and concise you were. Right to the point. Nice bits of family comedy weren't a distraction either. Keep it up young man!
This is the "BEST" video on this subject that I have watched up till now. I worked as a lineman, and I twisted wires for an electrician years ago. I like to keep up with the newer ways of doing things, get great satisfaction watching good work being done, i love your work.
Finished building an addition to our home two years ago. We added a 100 amp subpanel (indoor), fed from our 200 amp main panel (outdoor). Out here in Albuquerque, New Mexico, only the wiring from the outdoor panel is required to be in conduit from the panel to either the soffit or exterior wall penetration. All of the wiring, including the feeders, to/from the indoor subpanel was fed through the top plate of the wall without conduit, and passed inspection. Just remember to have a can of spray foam on hand to seal all of your top plate penetrations after all of the wiring is fed through.
Around here, Commercial applications requires conduit to at least the plate line or above a suspended ceiling. In residential, you can staple to the backer board.
Ben!!! You steely eyed bastard I love ya. Watched the video went to home depot and two hours later i was wiring up dedicated curcuits for my garage workshop!!!!! Your the man. I have a 200 amp main and added the same exact sub panel you did with a 60 amp breaker from the main.
Hi Benjamin, Per latest NEC you do not need to derate SER wire or similar for interior use - that only applied for 2011-2014 code cycles, and was related to the use of thermal insulation. If you're using more than three *current carrying conductors* in a raceway you have to derate, but ground is not one of them. So one 4 wire SER should not be subject to deration :)
In 30 minutes you added a sub panel in your basement. Your sister sang a song. Almost burned the house down cooking. Then brought you a glass of delicious Tea. You guys are busy. My advice if Amelia is going g to continue to cook maybe you should do a video of how to install a vent hood so she quits setting of the smoke detectors when she burns her toast.😂
Your presentation was great.You made it so simple that even without a knowledge of electrical most people could DYI.Wish videos like these would have been available years ago.Fortrantly people don't mind sharing their knowledge for those of us who don't mind working .Instead of having to wait on a appointment just to get a quote.
Good job with the video. Just a tip: I have always used lineman pliers to remove the plug when removing out the knock out plugs instead of fingers. I've gotten cut too many times when I just used my fingers for this task.
Of all the DIY videos I have watched this gentleman has taken the time to wear and explain proper PPE (personal protective equipment). Not only is this an informative DIY video, but I appreciate the reminder to wear PPE. Thank you for that. I wish more videos did the same. And, exceptional job with explaining the install. This non-electrical DIYer appreciates it.
This is really good. The detailed instructions at a comprehensible pace added to the "reasons" for everything. This could make the total difference for what I'm trying to learn!
Great video man. I'm a pro land surveyor with a pretty extensive background in lots of things since we survey lots of electrical and plumbing. I just wanted to wire a sub panel to my shop I built but due to a packed out main panel I think I'm going to call a pro in for my application. I dug and buried 2-2-2-4 for 300 ft over my "vacation" time. With enough time I'm sure I could make it work but you electricians have a specific level of expertise. I'll pay to have a pro do my sub panel as long as they agree not to survey land. Lol.
Nice video. Couple of hints, always collect the metal knockouts so they do not short anything, and vacuum the panel to keep crap out of it. Oh, and make sure you do not have any cables near the panel cover screw holes, as I found out the hard way when I blew the 200 amp main breaker, and nearly crapped my self in the process.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 I think I peed a little at the end of your comment. Comments with “crapping oneself” will never not be funny. On a serious note, glad you’re okay and good advice 💪
Boy, did I enjoy that! I'm an old guy who is just now acquiring electrical knowledge, and have learned so much from you showing how it's done. I'm glad I subscribed. Now you and the channel "sixtyfiveford" are my favorite! This other channel explains how to put together and repair small motors & making things from scrap parts etc... Great job! keep the projects going, us old guys still can learn.
Your videos are great. I like your humility many electricians think they are so special. We are all mostly capable do anything, it's just educating ourselves. I do know most of what is your videos but I always like to see other's opinions and technics. Thanks
I heard "Uffda!"🤣 Are you Norwegian? Love your videos... Your enthusiasm, you passion for what you do. You inspire me so much and I have learned so much from you! Thanks for making TH-cam a great place. It's people like you that makes this a wonderful platform for all of us to share our knowledge and learn ramdom stuff! Sending much love and blessings all the way from Long Island, NY! Thank you! Thank you!
Thank you for the thorough details. I'm an engineering technician so journeyman skills aren't foreign but I'm by no means an expert. Very informative and helpful, thank you.
I'm working on getting training to be a journeyman but while I'm waiting, I love watching your videos, they have helped me learn a lot. I picked up a fluke 77 IV DMM and I've been using it to test things around the house (being very careful).
may I suggest labeling the breakers as the wires are attached, so you can easily determine which breaker needs to be 'opened' for a specific circuit/appliance
You just made my next big project so much easier! Thanks. LOL!!! I teased my oldest daughter when she was learning to cook, that she used the Smoke Detector as her kitchen timer!!!
Great job, as always Ben. 1. Use cable cutters/"eagle beaks" to cut the bigger cable. Should be easier than the diagonal side cutters. 2. In addition to a torque screwdriver, a torque wrench for those bigger lug bolts. 3. No use of an antioxidant compound for the feeder cables into the main lugs? Might want to explain that in the video... probably don't need since you're using copper wire, but you should explain when it is required. 4. Please explain when you need some strapping/support for the conduit between the panels and then for the branch circuit conduit going up to the ceiling bays. 5. I usually wrap as much of the wire I can (i.e. from the lug all the way to the conduit bushing) in red or white tape. Just a 1 inch wrap is hard to see.
Antioxidant jelly is only necessary for the aluminum terminations, and I believe, only stranded aluminum. The conduits should probably be better supported so they don't wiggle around. Usually conduits have some sort of strut system.
I also highly recommend he gets a dedicated #2 square screwdriver, makes installing a bunch of circuits so much faster and easier. Also easier to take the panel cover off with.
Thank you! Dude, I'm a new subscriber and love the content. I've been planning a self install new sub panel for weeks, and this is the icing on the cake. Exactly what I needed at exactly the right time. So thank you, and keep it up!
Just wanted to let you know that you are the best video here since my opinion. I have done 2 sub panels sense I found you. Good job explaining us rookies.
I may need to install a sub panel for my workshop. I have a bunch of Everlast welders and tools that require 220v which isn't available to me there at the moment.
Been doing wiring for 35 year's and just never saw the reason for useing 15 amp wiring years ago the wire was so much bigger that it was a pain to handle for lighting but now the new 12 is like 14 used to be and 14 wire feels like a common exstenion cord and I've felt the heat in wire with the more distance it's ran. So all my houses are all 20 amp breakers and 12 wire,less confusion and can run light circuits from any location using less wire.
Researched for a month on this stuff and just now found this video. You concisely summed up a months worth of research from multiple sites in this awesome video. I was so impressed I watched anyway, your knowledge of codes and to dos and not to dos was spot on. Thanks
One question I can’t find the answer to, is a sub panel only used when you run out of space on main and/or when you need/want a breaker close to application? ie shop, As it benefits running 4 big gauge wires to sub panel in shop verses a bunch of individual smaller wires to each application inside a shop. What if you max the main breaker amps capacity out, would installing a sub panel be possible?
I watched over a dozen TH-cam videos on this process. I wish I would have seen this one first! You answered my questions on conduit sizing, wire gauge (eventually used #2, since #3 wasn’t available at the big box stores and the Neutral Lug kit. I had to use a dual lug and drill it directly to the box, since it was a slender, single bank of breakers - hence, no room for a #2 wire to fit on the neutral/ground bar. Also, another video suggested using 2-2-2 Aluminum SER Cable, due to the cost. Since there was no 3-3-3-5 cable available, I used the aluminum. Big mistake. Took almost a day just trying to fit it into the load center and short of impossible to bend. Never again. It was a waste of money and lost a day’s worth of pay.
Ben, very helpful vid! I am about to install a sub-panel in my attached garage and this video of yours has been really perfect for what I am about to do. Thanks!!!
I like to strip wires as you show, by circumscribing the wire, but the inspector mentioned that the conductor could be damaged that way and possibly break. Also, he wants to see about 1/8" of conductor exposed outside of the socket to insure that no insulation is accidentally clamped into the socket.
Thank you. You have explained a lot of things I had questions about. I'm installing 2 sub panels. One to my attached 2 car garage and one to my future wood shop in my back yard. After watching your video, you clarified some things that have been boggling me.
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You guys are awesome. As an affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Bro do you shop to Jamaica ?
some of those brands assuming you have them yourself or this is all yoru collection but some of them you would be better off buying the ryobi kits at home depot or milwakee either the bottom or the top not warrior or skil. and central pnematic might as well just go to harbor freight
What about moving the other breakers from the main to the sub?
❤❤❤❤❤❤
Hi Ben, Great video. You note using #3 copper thhn wire. Is that the correct size if the distance is 100 feet away?
Ben, I know this video was three years ago, but man, it's a lifesaver. I recently had to wire a new shed, and I couldn't have gotten the sub-panel in the right way without it. I have a friend who used to be an inspector in a neighboring county, and he came to look it over before it gets inspected next week, and he told me that my wiring was better than some electrician's stuff he'd seen. All that is because of you. Thank you!
Sweet!
Hands-down best subpanel installation video on TH-cam. Thoroughly explained in a clear and concise manner, and some of the dry comedic relief had me rolling. Great job sir! Exceptional!
Why do you have neutrals and equipment grounding conductors on the same terminal strip.?
Oh you don't. That's in the panel your feeding from.
Unlike many DYI TH-cam videos, you actually SHOW what you are doing along with your comments. Great camera work. Oh yes, the sound is also excellent.
Thank You
I went on wire jobs with my dad when I was 4 years old. I'd pick up all the knock outs and thought I was rich with all that coin in my pockets.
Thanks! I successfully wired my subpanel and ran about 80' of wire and it was probably about 90% due to the information you provided in this and other videos. So fun learning and really felt great when I turned everything on and nothing exploded and all my tests and checks went perfect.. thanks to all of the helpful commenters as well.. I followed every piece of advice I could find.
What all tools you got for this project. I am not electrical but feel confident after watching this.
This is the most thorough video for a sub panel I’ve come across. Thank you.
For the most part you do considerably better then some journeyman and I very impressed with your level of self taught education.
But some points to consider.
1) Consider a LR #2 (Locked Recess) driver. I believe some people call it a Robertson.
2) You showed EMT from the panel to the ceiling and you installed PVC. This is NEC for the physical protection of NM cable below 8'. And I would never run NM down a conduit without a connector to protect the wire. Most AHJ's would require a pipe to NM connector transition connector.
3) This next one would be a point of debate among electricians on your placement of the 1/2 PVC conduit. Myself I always work from the outside in. Reason is that when I come back to install another conduit or 2, conductors are not in my way and subject to physical damage when removing knock outs or fishing in new cable.
4) I NEVER loop my wires in a panel. It is messy. Industrial maintenance people would do this because they where constantly moving machines and motors and such. In a commercial or a residential application the odds moving that breaker in the next 20 years or so is extremely unlikely. And it makes it way more difficult to add new circuits.
5) On the neutral and ground bars I never run my wire wild thru. If there is a piece sticking thru I nip it short after installation so it is nice and clean and no sharp objects sticking thru.
6) In the video NEVER make up the main breaker first....what happens if your working with a partner, or breaker is bad or you catch it with another wire and you energize that breaker? It creates a deadly situation. Phase conductors are always last. Order of landing conductors is ground, neutral and phase. this is for your safely so a ground is established for your safety. If for some reason you had to disconnect hot then reverse order (Phase, neutral (Potential Load) and ground) is the correct method.
7) PVC inside a building i almost never do. CODE does not say you can't but some jurisdictions it is. If there is a fire PVC can emit toxic gases.
8) Always tell your subscribers every video to Check State and Local addendum's to the code that have been passed. The NEC is the bases, Local and state can regulate above and beyond the code. I say this as a legal stand point so you don't come in conflict with another city, state code addendum and your subscribers.
All in all your bases of understanding surpasses most journeyman.
You got that right!
EMT = Electrical Metallic Tubing
NEC = National Electrical Code
PVC = PolyVinyl Chloride
NM cable = Non-Metallic sheathed cable aka "Romex".
AHJ = Authority Having Juridiction.
THANK YOU for sharing your expertise. I think I'll pin your comment to the top as this information is extremely relevant and helpful.
Blessings to you and yours!
One other comment; don't pull/feed wire towards a hot panel
Things I wanted to suggest as well. Specifically order of terminations. And working from the load side first.
Ben, for being only 16 years old, you are pretty knowledgeable! What a great teacher you are. Talented and humble at the same time. Incredible combination! (Steady camera and no dumb music is appreciated) Good luck to you.
16? Wait, what???? ;-)
@@sparks6666 Everyone knows Ben just turn 14.
Huh? He is 16 I am floored, amazing, better than seasoned pros.
@@keithluken5790 same
He is defn impressive if he is only 16....
hmmm
how does he have 10 years of experince if he is only 16 lol
that means he started at the age of 6 😂
I leaned so much. Your calling is to teach. thank you
I haven't heard the word uff da in about 30 years when I was stationed in North Dakota in the Air Force. Great video for my upcoming electrical project.
Love your videos and Electrical work! My dad was a master electrician for 40+ years and I worked many jobs with him both as a kid and adult. He passed away from cancer in 09:( and now I do all my electrical jobs with my two sons:). Your way of teaching is excellent and reminds me of my dad:) I love all things electrical!! Keep the videos coming. I'm definitely a fan!!
Great job! Super informative and you explain things very clearly! I've been in the industrial instrument and electrical trade for over 25 years. It's nice to see young guys picking up the trade and mastering it. My only advice is to always verify zero energy using a meter, saved me a few times. Great job!
For sure !!
Ben, Coming from a career mechanical engineer, MBA Ohio State, and military jet pilot and instructor. Exposed to lots of public speaking training and experience including "charm school where they teach you how to Teach". ---- Probably one of the best how-to videos I've ever seen ! ----- Not only was the tech top-notch, continually emphasizing turning the power on and off and calling out the Hot lugs was fantastic. THANKS. Good job.
Very helpful! I like that as he’s installing, he takes into account what the “next guy” in that panel might need. Sometimes the “next guy” is you!
Great video. I really appreciate how precise, organized and clear your work. No stuttering, stammering or searching. Great job dude.
Thanks for posting this video. I just finished installing a sub panel in my house and your video was absolutely essential to my success with that project. If I hadn't come across your video, I probably would not have been able to do this. You walked me through all of the steps and helped me to make sure I had everything I needed for this project. Really terrific video!
Good Day Benjamin : Over all you did very well explaining everything! I was a bit concerned though when I saw you cut open and striped your 12 gauge wire run in to the new panel box. ( 26.20 ) reference frame in video. It would be better if about a few inches from the end of the wire... use your knife as you did and cut the outer cover... Then grab hold of the 3 wires in side with one hand and outer cover with other hand and tear apart up to what is needed. Don't risk nicking the wire the way you did it. Good Job over all with all respect!
I like your style, you're actually a great educator and you voice is not annoying, which allowed me to listen without being annoyed. Great job.
Best explanation I've seen yet. Thanks so much for the video.
WHAT A AMAZING VIDEO ! No long introduction or stupid loud music. You explained how, the grounds, neutral so clear . I think all diy videos need your videos as an example . THANKS FOR SAVING ME HOURS watching frustrating videos .
One thing to add: I would highly recommend spanning two joists with your plywood mounting panel. Relying on one stud to mount the panel allows it to wiggle side to side and will likely become loose over time with use.
Our Canadian electrical code requires the main breaker to be in separate main panel metal section, with no load breaker wires feeding through main breaker enclosure. This would make working safe when main power is turned off. I like you showing the wiggle wire when tightening stranded . Very good teacher.
Due to electricians being so busy, I wired my new shop build and am preparing to connect sub-panel in the shop from another sub-panel. This video placed many of the puzzle pieces together for me to continue progress on doing that. Much appreciated and I DIG the singing interruption and the facial expressions.
Electrical work is surprisingly easy. It took me about 3 hours to run 2 dedicated lines about 30 feet each, 1 dedicated line only about a foot, 3 GFCI outlets, 2 regular outlets from 2 of the GFCIs, remove a burnt outlet and box and remove and replace 2 breakers with CAFCI breakers. It would have been even faster if my box had been a plug on neutral box or if they had wired things correctly to begin with, but I couldn't leave the last outlet on a 20 amp breaker with 16 gauge wire running to it.
Good job. Had to smile when you put your sister on. Ether camera shy. Or just wasn’t expecting the surprise sudden camera exposure. Thanks for the clear and very informative video.
Thanks for that detailed hookup of the sub panel . for me, you have the over alll best presentation for getting all the the parts and hookups understood. Thank you
I have been re-wiring my 140 y/o home (in Canada) and your videos have been a life saver!
As a former maintenance manager at a major food processing plant I would have used this video and comments as an educational video. We provided specific NFPA 70E training to our state licensed electricians but what this video shows is industrial or residential is regulated by the NFPA. Good stuff guys. Carry on.
Enjoy your videos. I've been doing electrical work (self taught) over the last 40 years in 30 odd houses in succession. I know I was successful in my installations as none of the houses have burned down nor people dying from electrical shocks. But, I still have more to learn.
I've lived overseas for 20 years (six houses) and still trying to understand their system. I'm installing a subpanel and gained insight from your video to adapt to this system. Again, no building burned down nor people shocked into the ether. I must be doing something right.
Seeing how life gets in a way while you're working is refreshing from the standard technical videos. Very enjoyable.
Thank you so much for doing a start to finish from the main panel to the subpanel. I’ve been watching for hours different videos. Yours is the only one inclusive that tells the whole story. Thanks again man.
Ben - I watched this video several years ago out of curiosity. Now that I'm in a different house I looked for it specifically because I remembered it being such good instruction. My memory was correct. I'm about ready to do the same thing in this house - my main panel is full and I need additional capacity in my garage. Thanks for the help.
I found the format and length of this video to be next to perfect for a DIY homeowner like myself. Covered many small details that others tend to leave out, such as wire gauge information. Keep up the good work! Earned a sub from me.
The best DIY sub panel install video that I've seen. Excellent job.
When “chamfering” the conduit, rather than breaking and bending your utility knife blades, you can stick the nose end of your pump pliers in there and twist it around a few times. Then open them up and twist them around the outside to nab the last little jagged edges. Great video so far!
Thank you for this tip. This would have saved me hours last year :-\
Yes those knifes will also get ya, cost me 4 stitches, and a write up do to Mr. OSHA and no cut resistant gloves.
Cheap inside/outside manual pipe reemer tool on ebay for $5 or less. Works on 1/2" to 1 1/4. We use them on copper, poly, and pvc everyday.
Great instruction for the most part. I can tell you that if you go to an electric supply house, you can get #3 THHN in various colors. Also, I've always seen the breaker landed first then the wire added. Whatever is easiest i guess.
Thanks your a life saver. I’m a old retired construction superintendent. Just starting a sub panel at my house. Thanks again from my hill top in. Sc.
Thank you so much for this video! Between what I had learned earlier and after watching you video, I installed a sub panel next to the main panel in my basement. No troubleshooting needed, worked perfectly the first time!! I already have two circuits on it. Next project will be the generator inlet since I recently scored a Tri Fuel generator on sale at Costco. Guys like you are what TH-cam should be all about. Sharing knowledge, educating, being willing to admit you don't have all the answers and just generally making peoples lives better. I have photos of the project if you are interested. Thanks again.
9:55 How to fix your PVC cement bottle start to finish!
Once you get the cap off the PVC cement bottle, put a thin film of Vassoline on the male threads.
This will prevent the cap from gluing itself onto the threads.
Making it very easy to get it off the next time you use it.
Channel locks work better
i have a difficult time finding the PVC cement when I need it, now you’re asking me to find the Vassoline jar?
Love that idea. We end up using channel locks to open the jar after the first use.
Yes I always have a bottle of Vaseline in my truck..... 🥴🥴
Pipe dope
Dude, well done! Even my wife sitting over there on the couch commented how direct and concise you were. Right to the point. Nice bits of family comedy weren't a distraction either. Keep it up young man!
This is the "BEST" video on this subject that I have watched up till now. I worked as a lineman, and I twisted wires for an electrician years ago. I like to keep up with the newer ways of doing things, get great satisfaction watching good work being done, i love your work.
Super awesome tutorial!!! Will make my sub panel job easier….thank you! Also, that was very sweet of your sister to make you some bubble tea.
Finished building an addition to our home two years ago. We added a 100 amp subpanel (indoor), fed from our 200 amp main panel (outdoor). Out here in Albuquerque, New Mexico, only the wiring from the outdoor panel is required to be in conduit from the panel to either the soffit or exterior wall penetration. All of the wiring, including the feeders, to/from the indoor subpanel was fed through the top plate of the wall without conduit, and passed inspection. Just remember to have a can of spray foam on hand to seal all of your top plate penetrations after all of the wiring is fed through.
Torque bar comes included with his hand - WOW - He is a miracle man
Nobody asked for your sarcasm Karen! 😉
Haha thought the same thing
You peepul are jealous of his unusual, but useful, ability !
Being a father is a good thing you'll look back on it and laugh. Keep up the videos 👍
lol
Ben, love how you present, very clear, and easy to understand, I learn a lot from this very short video. Thank you.
I second that!
Wired a whole house and garage from your videos. Thank you for giving us rookies perfect direction.
I love videos like this! The only thing I’d say is wrap more white electrical tape up the neutral wire to ensure it’s well covered and visible!
Around here, Commercial applications requires conduit to at least the plate line or above a suspended ceiling. In residential, you can staple to the backer board.
Ben!!! You steely eyed bastard I love ya. Watched the video went to home depot and two hours later i was wiring up dedicated curcuits for my garage workshop!!!!! Your the man.
I have a 200 amp main and added the same exact sub panel you did with a 60 amp breaker from the main.
Just wired up a new sub panel with success thanks to your video. Thank you!!
This has been the most understandable sub panel installation video I’ve seen
Thank you for sharing
Hi Benjamin,
Per latest NEC you do not need to derate SER wire or similar for interior use - that only applied for 2011-2014 code cycles, and was related to the use of thermal insulation.
If you're using more than three *current carrying conductors* in a raceway you have to derate, but ground is not one of them. So one 4 wire SER should not be subject to deration :)
In 30 minutes you added a sub panel in your basement. Your sister sang a song. Almost burned the house down cooking. Then brought you a glass of delicious Tea. You guys are busy. My advice if Amelia is going g to continue to cook maybe you should do a video of how to install a vent hood so she quits setting of the smoke detectors when she burns her toast.😂
Your presentation was great.You made it so simple that even without a knowledge of electrical most people could DYI.Wish videos like these would have been available years ago.Fortrantly people don't mind sharing their knowledge for those of us who don't mind working .Instead of having to wait on a appointment just to get a quote.
Thanks! This is one of the most detailed installation videos for subpanels I've seen.
Your videos are the best. Clear and easy to understand
I appreciate you taking the time to make this video. Thanks.
Good job with the video. Just a tip: I have always used lineman pliers to remove the plug when removing out the knock out plugs instead of fingers. I've gotten cut too many times when I just used my fingers for this task.
Perfect timing that I found this. I just built a shop and am getting ready to do my sub panel 👍🏼
Of all the DIY videos I have watched this gentleman has taken the time to wear and explain proper PPE (personal protective equipment). Not only is this an informative DIY video, but I appreciate the reminder to wear PPE. Thank you for that. I wish more videos did the same. And, exceptional job with explaining the install. This non-electrical DIYer appreciates it.
Exelent , From Fresno California iced coffee too keeps the engine . going ,
This is really good. The detailed instructions at a comprehensible pace added to the "reasons" for everything. This could make the total difference for what I'm trying to learn!
Great video man. I'm a pro land surveyor with a pretty extensive background in lots of things since we survey lots of electrical and plumbing. I just wanted to wire a sub panel to my shop I built but due to a packed out main panel I think I'm going to call a pro in for my application. I dug and buried 2-2-2-4 for 300 ft over my "vacation" time. With enough time I'm sure I could make it work but you electricians have a specific level of expertise. I'll pay to have a pro do my sub panel as long as they agree not to survey land. Lol.
Nice video. Couple of hints, always collect the metal knockouts so they do not short anything, and vacuum the panel to keep crap out of it. Oh, and make sure you do not have any cables near the panel cover screw holes, as I found out the hard way when I blew the 200 amp main breaker, and nearly crapped my self in the process.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 I think I peed a little at the end of your comment. Comments with “crapping oneself” will never not be funny. On a serious note, glad you’re okay and good advice 💪
Excellent note/advice and not berating someone! I would have probably crapped myself lol
Boy, did I enjoy that! I'm an old guy who is just now acquiring electrical knowledge, and have learned so much from you showing how it's done.
I'm glad I subscribed. Now you and the channel "sixtyfiveford" are my favorite! This other channel explains how to put together and repair small motors & making things from scrap parts etc... Great job! keep the projects going, us old guys still can learn.
Your videos are great. I like your humility many electricians think they are so special. We are all mostly capable do anything, it's just educating ourselves. I do know most of what is your videos but I always like to see other's opinions and technics. Thanks
I heard "Uffda!"🤣
Are you Norwegian?
Love your videos... Your enthusiasm, you passion for what you do.
You inspire me so much and I have learned so much from you!
Thanks for making TH-cam a great place.
It's people like you that makes this a wonderful platform for all of us to share our knowledge and learn ramdom stuff!
Sending much love and blessings all the way from Long Island, NY!
Thank you! Thank you!
Amazing content! Well shot, expertly explained, and one of the most thorough installation videos for a subpanel I've seen.
Thank you for the thorough details. I'm an engineering technician so journeyman skills aren't foreign but I'm by no means an expert.
Very informative and helpful, thank you.
Glad that it was helpful!
I installed a 220 single sub panel for my mini split AC. I like that better than a pullout power disconnect. Went pretty easy.
Thanks for posting this. I ddidntnknow anything about electrical but now I feel confident doing a subpanel for my detached garage!
I'm working on getting training to be a journeyman but while I'm waiting, I love watching your videos, they have helped me learn a lot. I picked up a fluke 77 IV DMM and I've been using it to test things around the house (being very careful).
you’re not a true electrician until you receive a shock that sends you running around the room in circles yelling and screaming
Thank you for all your hard work and passing on your knowledge. Thank you. I truly appreciate the time and effort you put into all your videos.
may I suggest labeling the breakers as the wires are attached, so you can easily determine which breaker needs to be 'opened' for a specific circuit/appliance
Not a doubt you’re a talented young master, this is one of the best instructional videos I have ever watched, thank you!
You just made my next big project so much easier! Thanks.
LOL!!! I teased my oldest daughter when she was learning to cook, that she used the Smoke Detector as her kitchen timer!!!
Great job, as always Ben. 1. Use cable cutters/"eagle beaks" to cut the bigger cable. Should be easier than the diagonal side cutters. 2. In addition to a torque screwdriver, a torque wrench for those bigger lug bolts. 3. No use of an antioxidant compound for the feeder cables into the main lugs? Might want to explain that in the video... probably don't need since you're using copper wire, but you should explain when it is required. 4. Please explain when you need some strapping/support for the conduit between the panels and then for the branch circuit conduit going up to the ceiling bays. 5. I usually wrap as much of the wire I can (i.e. from the lug all the way to the conduit bushing) in red or white tape. Just a 1 inch wrap is hard to see.
Great recommendations! Thanks!
Antioxidant jelly is only necessary for the aluminum terminations, and I believe, only stranded aluminum. The conduits should probably be better supported so they don't wiggle around. Usually conduits have some sort of strut system.
For that amount of conduit I wouldn’t suspect that it could benefit from strapping.
Les Gray I thought as much, but not sure what code requirements are.
I also highly recommend he gets a dedicated #2 square screwdriver, makes installing a bunch of circuits so much faster and easier. Also easier to take the panel cover off with.
22:25 didn't realize I was singing so loud! 🤣 *Shaking my head*
You’re a great singer Amelia
;) ~~why are u watching this btw?~~ oh boi never mind
@@jared5970 because it's my brother's channel 🤷🏼♀️🤣
Amelia Sahlstrom well didn’t see that coming. Thought u were an electrician until finished the vid lul.
Amelia Sahlstrom 😂🤣😂🤣
Thank you! Dude, I'm a new subscriber and love the content. I've been planning a self install new sub panel for weeks, and this is the icing on the cake. Exactly what I needed at exactly the right time. So thank you, and keep it up!
Just wanted to let you know that you are the best video here since my opinion. I have done 2 sub panels sense I found you. Good job explaining us rookies.
while studying for my home inspection license I find your content excellent informative ty.
You are so great at your job. You explain everything so well. You're awesome!
Nice work. Very neat and organized, plus I like the idea of having a bit extra wire in the box in case you need to move the breakers around later.
This guy is in the 97 percentile top instructors, imo.
Thanks!
Too bad he's violating code
@@TheDarthJesus Care to explain?
I like how I can tell you actually do a good bit of work based off the look of your insulated screwdriver. Great video man!
very educational. i have watched about 20 of these videos by electricians and inspectors and yours is easily the best.
I may need to install a sub panel for my workshop. I have a bunch of Everlast welders and tools that require 220v which isn't available to me there at the moment.
I can't believe your house only has one leg of power going to it.
On concentric knockouts sometimes I drill out one of the welds to make it easier to remove the K.O.
Been doing wiring for 35 year's and just never saw the reason for useing 15 amp wiring years ago the wire was so much bigger that it was a pain to handle for lighting but now the new 12 is like 14 used to be and 14 wire feels like a common exstenion cord and I've felt the heat in wire with the more distance it's ran. So all my houses are all 20 amp breakers and 12 wire,less confusion and can run light circuits from any location using less wire.
I do think that's the first time I've ever heard someone say "don't sing right now" while doing electrical work. Great video!
I know right! Whenever I see that part I feel bad for making her stop...
I knew you were exceptionally competent when I saw you pull out the Gerber EAB. Best knife ever.
The " Amelia... Don't sing right now " moment was cute. Sounds like a cool Bro.
I will most definitely be referring back to this video in the future, thanks dude.
Glad it was helpful!
Passed my rough in inspection today, thanks to this guide.
Researched for a month on this stuff and just now found this video. You concisely summed up a months worth of research from multiple sites in this awesome video. I was so impressed I watched anyway, your knowledge of codes and to dos and not to dos was spot on. Thanks
One question I can’t find the answer to, is a sub panel only used when you run out of space on main and/or when you need/want a breaker close to application? ie shop, As it benefits running 4 big gauge wires to sub panel in shop verses a bunch of individual smaller wires to each application inside a shop.
What if you max the main breaker amps capacity out, would installing a sub panel be possible?
I watched over a dozen TH-cam videos on this process. I wish I would have seen this one first! You answered my questions on conduit sizing, wire gauge (eventually used #2, since #3 wasn’t available at the big box stores and the Neutral Lug kit. I had to use a dual lug and drill it directly to the box, since it was a slender, single bank of breakers - hence, no room for a #2 wire to fit on the neutral/ground bar. Also, another video suggested using 2-2-2 Aluminum SER Cable, due to the cost. Since there was no 3-3-3-5 cable available, I used the aluminum. Big mistake. Took almost a day just trying to fit it into the load center and short of impossible to bend. Never again. It was a waste of money and lost a day’s worth of pay.
Ben, very helpful vid! I am about to install a sub-panel in my attached garage and this video of yours has been really perfect for what I am about to do. Thanks!!!
I like to strip wires as you show, by circumscribing the wire, but the inspector mentioned that the conductor could be damaged that way and possibly break. Also, he wants to see about 1/8" of conductor exposed outside of the socket to insure that no insulation is accidentally clamped into the socket.
You'd get fired from any reputable electrical company for stripping wires that way.
These videos are always so great and informative. Keep up the great work. 👍
Thank you. You have explained a lot of things I had questions about. I'm installing 2 sub panels. One to my attached 2 car garage and one to my future wood shop in my back yard. After watching your video, you clarified some things that have been boggling me.
It may be 2 years old but thanks , you answered ever step for me . I was sure I had it but this helped with my 100 amp sub .