My comments are a little late however I would like you to know Mr Donovan, your video was very informative and helpful. People with negative comments do not have to watch your video. Anyone who has any question at all regarding whether the power should be shut off before doing anything electrical, should hire a professional to do their electrical work.I for one understand you are just showing what you know on how to change a circuit breaker, for us DIY'ers and if we think we cannot or should not attempt it, then we know we know to use proper judgement and hire an Electrical Contractor. Not bully you when all you were just trying to do was share your knowledge and perhaps save us money for us DIY'ers. I very much appreciate you. Keep up the great work! Thank you!!
I will say that this is a great video if you know electricity well enough, and understand the risk. For me this was very helpful. If you have not handled electricity before or are nervous watching this video, then PLEASE turn off the main power breaker and follow the same instructions. Seriously guys, please stop assuming all viewers are idiots and stop condoning Les. Thank you Les! Excellent work!
Most people watching RUclips diy videos ARE idiots, or at the very least they are not competent in the task at hand. And if you don't give adequate warnings, you're a danger to those people. He gave a pseudo-disclaimer about the master shut off and good tips regarding footwear, but he under-emphasized the risk and isn't using the proper tools for electrical work.
This is a great demo meant only for smart people. But for safety PLEASE shut the main power off. Thank You Sir. watch this video have help me fix my circuit breaker. Thank You again.
Thanks Mr. Donovan! This is exactly what I needed. As a first time home buyer, I became overwhelmed with electrical woes soon after buying the home. One by one, the lights and ceiling fans in the house began to shut off and or blink continuously. I am slowly getting a handle on everything through helpful you tube videos such as yours.
I could not find a main switch on my box however I turned all breakers to the off position before removing the cover and popping off the the broken one. Your instructions were simple and I took the precautions you mentioned. The kitchen and family room connections have been restored. Thank you so much!
I just saved $165 for a service call by installing a new circuit breaker myself! A great video that starts where I needed it to start; how to get to breakers. Et viola! New breakers in, old dead one out. THANK YOU!
My main power line switch was outside! I got a little nervous when you opened your box and it was at the top, and when I opened mine it didn't seem to exist. Luckily I decided to check outside and sure enough, there it was. I also replaced an ACFI circuit breaker, which had 3 wires, not 1. Also scared me, but I used common sense. Thanks for the video and safety tips!
Was anyone else holding their breath while Old Les waved the end of that screwdriver all over the breaker box while he struggled with the circuit breaker removal ??
Thank you for the video, great tips. For those who are posting disrespectful comments about this gentleman, seriously have some respect for your elders. The man has been doing this for just as long as you have been alive or longer. What is wrong with you all, if you do not agree with what he is demonstrating move on or pay for an electrician to do the work for you.
The issue isn't about how qualified he is to perform this, it's about why he posted this as an instructional video for people of unknown qualifications. It should always be assumed that your audience has little to no knowledge- especially here. It is wonderful he feels comfortable swapping a breaker with a live box, but he makes no effort to address the danger of doing it with little to no experience.
I very much agree with respecting the elders and appreciate his effort to put this video online, but even as an unlicensed electrician I spotted multiple EXTREMELY DANGEROUS acts during this video. I don't mind him skipping a safety PSA, but he literally told people that he doesnt turn off the circuit main before changing out the breaker, and then proceeded to unscrew a breaker with a metal screw driver.
Thank you very much for this video, sir. I greatly appreciate the explanation and directions. I was stymied trying to fix a blown breaker and admittedly stubborn pride led me to search this out instead of asking a friend or calling an electrician. You not only helped fix my lights, but saved my pride. I'd hit Like more than once if I could.
THANK YOU - loved the calm instruction. This is not for children obviously and not for people who can afford to hire out, desk and chair folk, ...APPLE PEOPLE. Love it, love it love it, thank you.
Thank you! Obvioulsy, the previouos people who have commented about your safety, have NO BRAINS!! Thank you for your help! Single girl figuring things out and you helped totally!
Susan Opperman You are welcome. Don't be to harsh on the lessor sex (mails), you girls have about four ounces more brain mass than they do so you do have an advantage, along with more common sense.
He clearly discusses that he is choosing to do the work hot, but also explains how to turn off the power first. Since it simply explains the subject, how to swap out a circuit breaker, and is only about 5 minutes, I think it is more than sufficient for general info. He didn't go over code, wire diameter, amperage or many other things that are relevant to the topic, but he covered the basics. If you choose do do your own work you are the one responsible for it. You should understand safety basics and though a shock from this can kill you, it's more likely to give you a nasty zap or melt your screwdriver or some random thing like that.
Thank you very much for taking the time to make this video. While watching it, I thought myself ... small annoyance.. I would turn off the main power switch. That said... thanks again much and forget all the naysayers and disrespectful people on this and other RUclips videos. It is OK to point out suggestions politely, beyond that, some people are jerks. Pay not attention to them Les. 100's of other viewers are thankful for your efforts but don't leave comments. Cheers
I had to change a breaker and a contactor on my A/C unit in the same session. Had and aging breaker (35 yo) and aging contactor (25 yo). Contactor was sticking on, so I used the breaker panel to turn it on and off a few times. Then I fried my breaker, too. Well, I fixed them bot on my first try. Made sure I turned off the main breaker, wore rubber shoes, rubber gloves and stood on cardboard. Not dying because I decided not to pay my electrician $65.00 to swap it for me. Job cost $17 in parts.
I think there are a lot of people here who are focusing on the wrong thing. YES! This man decided NOT to turn off the main power before performing this task. For all of you out there there is a special thing that is hard to come by these days and it is called EXPERIENCE. If you have enough experience in a particular area then you know what you can and cannot do. This man obviously knows that for added safety precautions he SHOULD have turned off the power. On the other hand he knows how to accomplish this task without doing that. In fact he even stated "Normally when I change a circuit breaker I turn off the power to the circuit breaker" at about 1:40 in the video. So for all of you out there that think there should be a million warning labels on everything you do so that you don't hurt your precious ego remember that there are worse ways to learn a lesson. You all need to remember that we as a people should be learning from our elders and from scientific advancements. Who do you think figured out to turn off the power before doing this procedure? It was some old guy that made a mistake. From that point on he LEARNED FROM HIS EXPERIENCE and told others not to do it. That doesn't mean it can't be done without turning off the power! So instead of bashing this experienced person for trying to each someone how to save themselves some money, how about a nice thank you and maybe a positive comment or a neutral side not about the power issue. You all aren't the brightest bulbs on the christmas tree but you don't have to act like a shorted fuse. Thank you Les Donovan.
Fabulous video. Obviously I would wear gloves and always try to work with one hand only since I'm not a pro like the narrator (and of course it goes without saying we don't want to short out a neighboring breaker), but the basic idea of how to get it out is conveyed. Great job!
Sorry Les. You have probably forgotten more about this subject than your criticizers will ever know. Obviously they have no idea how a breaker panel works. If they did, I'm sure they would have been more thoughtful before showing their ignorance. The way you maintained you cool I can only admire!
Les, thank you for your valuable information. And yes, I am also not an idiot like the idiots freaking out about nit turning off the main breakers. I actually understand how electrical panels are set up.
DanteM is right. You say, "First, remove the wire..." NO... FIRST TURN OFF THE BREAKER and only after you're sure it is off, then put the screwdriver to the screw to remove the wire! Please change this before somebody fries themselves. Also the guys comment about working while holding a screwdriver is right, too!
Thank you sir for posting this video.👍🤝☺ I am too much of a coward to attempt this but at least you let me identify the problem so that when I do call an electrician I have an idea of what it is that they have to do.
Even if you are comfortable replacing a breaker on a hot panel, you should remember that people watching and learning, need to learn the correct and safe way to do it. I'm comfortable doing it that way, but I would never teach anyone else to do that.
I used this video to change my own breaker, however my power was off at the main so I was more comfortable doing it. I did learn from this video though and I was willing to change it live, but after reading comments I think I would turn off the breaker first and remove it then remove the wire.
I’m sorry, but you didn’t test the load before sticking the screw driver. Holy cow sir. I would shut off the Main switch as we know how that screw driver can go and slip possibly touching other live wires! I’m glad that you’re alive, but I can’t go by your steps. I only watched this to remind myself how to do it safely and correctly.
Always de energize the circuit breaker box by switching off the main breaker before ever thinking about changing a breaker and use a not touch voltage tester to check to see which one might be bad before you do. In any case where your unsure if DIY can get you killed or injured call an electrician and take a bid before okaying having it done.
I am glad you talked about safety first. HOWEVER You may have missed a few safety steps: 1.) Turn off the main power, even if you have to reset clocks... 2.) Turn off the breaker you are working on. 3.) Test for zero voltage (~AC) before inserting a screwdriver. 4.) Consult an expert. These safety tips were recommended by a community of amateurs (myself included).
First, thanks for posting this, helped me out a lot. Quick question, I have a house that is about 40 years old. I have found a several electrical outlets that "dried or rotten out" the plastic was brittle and broke at the touch. I've replaced them. What is the standard amp electrical outlet and breaker for everyday household items, such as coffee pot, computer lamps etc?
The standard house circuit for lights and small appliance is 15 amps on a 14 gage wire. However, you must be careful not to overload the circuit with too many lights and small appliances. For a major appliance such as a refrigerator, they are usually wired on a dedicated circuit using 12 gage wire with a 20 amp circuit.
If you are uncomfortable about it then turn it off however, there is no need as once the black wire is removed the circuit is dead. The buss bar behind the circuit breaker is still alive unless you turn off the main breaker. I have changed many circuit breakers and have done it just like I do in the video.
***** what if there is a backfeed of voltage on the cable you pull out? Because a "handyman" has done his own work and joined 2 circuits together at a power point in the house? What if you slip and touch the frame and the buzz bar with your screw driver, that wood that you are standing on is going to do nothing when a swichboard blows up in your face!!! Put this video down immediately, before someone gets killed!!
Vaughan Klein Get a life and get over yourself lol, Jesus man. I appreciate the fact you feel you are protecting people with your comments, however knowledgeable folks will know you lack experience. This is the correct way to do this, the guy is a pro, and knows his shit. He warns to play it safe at the beginning of the video. That said, I have many electrician friends and there ARE situations (businesses, etc) that simply cannot be shut down. Electrical work can be very dangerous, so can say, flying a plane or driving a car. This is residential voltage (200 amps max), imagine the industrial situations where power cannot be interrupted and working on live equipment is mandatory. There are inherent risks in this line of work.
509Mathias My comment was about shutting off the one circuit breaker before being replaced, not the main breaker. He was removing a live wire rather than shutting off the one breaker or popping it out to remove power. Experienced folks wouldn't need to watch the video. It is supposed to be instructional to those who don't know how to do it. Why else would anyone post such a video? Take your own advice:)
Thanks for the info. Just what I wanted to see; work is complete and no one is dead. Experience is key to do this method but accident happen. No one is perfect.....WaTcH oUt cleverness. Live wire, live person.
Yes. I would recommend that your remove the breaker from the panel and check it with an ohm meter to determine if it function properly. With breaker out of the panel determine if you have continuity across the breaker in the on position and that you don't in the off position. Most likely the breaker will fail this test based on your experiences.
Professionals like this fellow know how to safely work with live wiring. Me? In a pinch I (successfully) did it once. I don't have the appetite to do it again. In my view it's not a huge deal to reset a few clocks. Fellow weekend warriors, if we are to be in error, let it be on the side of caution. I cracked up when he talked about his wife and resetting the clocks.
One method of avoiding having to reset clocks is to buy radio controlled (atomic) clocks. They are great. You can get them in analog forms or digital. The time is always accurate to the second and you never have to adjust them for DST.
Like Sgt Shults - I know nu-thing.....how can I tell what gauge wire is being used? I have a 220v 20amp breaker in box I would like to replace the 20amp with a 30 amp but I don't know if the wire is safe to use with 30amp. I can't see the wire at the box or at the outlet - so if I remove the outlet cover can I see something that will identify what gauge wire? Or do you have to remove the breaker box cover and get in there to find out ?
Don't be huffy Rosemary. If you anoint yourself as a teacher you have a responsibility to teach safety around hazardous actions. This man is violating all safety protocols and teaching wrong. When you teach wrong stuff about hazardous materials you have dead people as your students. Don't defend actions that may lead to death. That is not teaching. That is killing.
Lass-in Angeles Well apparently you haven't read most of the comments below that have been written by MULTIPLE TRAINED ELECTRICIANS. Before you comment negatively about something, confirm your suspicions first. Les is correct.
That's wrong. If he had died, it would mean he had successfully avoided having to reset the clocks and that he could rest easy knowing his wife would be on time for the funeral. I mean know offence to you Les, I just couldn't help making the joke. I with you, I would also not shut everything down to change it. Especially because the wire you are pulling out has been de energized by shutting off the switch. And any way, getting a shock from 120V isn't usually the end of the world. I bet there is more chance of dying on the morning commute by the hand of an angry degenerate than there is from 120v. Or maybe I just have some strange resistance in my body. Or maybe...maybe I actually dead from that first time and I just don't realize this is the other side. Hmmm...Trump? Is it more of an indication?
I've changed a couple, but don't consider myself an electrician by any means. Also, I'm not taking any chances, plus my box is old, so I'm turning off the main or/and pulling my outside meter. Just to be double safe.( or in case I slip with that screwdriver ).
Thank you for this video on changing out a circuit breaker. Myself, I shall turn off the Main Power. Can reset my clocks. Since April 2017 my (forner) Landlord's wife simply blew me off (as simply being another pesky tenant) when I called about my ceiling lights, and half of my wall outlets (all of those connected to the circuit breaker in question) on one bery windy day.
I don't know if there is a more dangerous video on YT. If you are a novice doing a basic circuit breaker switch-out, please review other DIY videos. I hope that you are doing OK Les!
I changed to breaker because my well pump stopped but it stilll wouldn't work. I installed a new pump one a year ago. How do I check if there is a break in the wire to the pump? Or any other ideas.
Would you mind helping me? It was 108 here today and we blew a breaker, I wear a morphine patch, overheating=bad. I changed the bad breaker, all was well, tonight another breaker blew (one side read 4 v). I replaced that but now one side reads 12v (good) another reads 17v (not good) and the power wasnt restored to our ac and kitchen outlets. I did have some challenge screwing in one lead, but seemed like I got them all? What causes a too-high reading and shouldnt it still have restored power? Thanks so much, we can't afford $150 twice today for a quick breaker change, one I succeeded, one clearly not.
Thank you Les! Although it is a mystery to me how you managed to connect a live wire to the new circuit breaker without turning off the main power switch, and not get zapped. Cannot understand this bit. Thanks for the video!
The wire is not live until it makes contact with the terminal of a seated breaker that is in the on position. Before then it is an open circuit. That is not to say that he couldn't get into trouble elsewhere in that panel and should have dealt with the little woman's guff instead of working in the panel without turning off the main breaker.
Not using an insulated shaft 1000 volt rated electricians screwdriver, no gloves, no arc protection for live panel work. are you nuts? not even electrical long nose pliers. This is risky, if you're going to do live work do it with the right tools.
It (kills) me how many people post (instructional) videos on here that are dangerous and not the proper way to do things - this is one of them!
My comments are a little late however I would like you to know Mr Donovan, your video was very informative and helpful. People with negative comments do not have to watch your video. Anyone who has any question at all regarding whether the power should be shut off before doing anything electrical, should hire a professional to do their electrical work.I for one understand you are just showing what you know on how to change a circuit breaker, for us DIY'ers and if we think we cannot or should not attempt it, then we know we know to use proper judgement and hire an Electrical Contractor. Not bully you when all you were just trying to do was share your knowledge and perhaps save us money for us DIY'ers. I very much appreciate you. Keep up the great work! Thank you!!
I will say that this is a great video if you know electricity well enough, and understand the risk. For me this was very helpful. If you have not handled electricity before or are nervous watching this video, then PLEASE turn off the main power breaker and follow the same instructions. Seriously guys, please stop assuming all viewers are idiots and stop condoning Les. Thank you Les! Excellent work!
Most people watching RUclips diy videos ARE idiots, or at the very least they are not competent in the task at hand. And if you don't give adequate warnings, you're a danger to those people. He gave a pseudo-disclaimer about the master shut off and good tips regarding footwear, but he under-emphasized the risk and isn't using the proper tools for electrical work.
This is a great demo meant only for smart people. But for safety PLEASE shut the main power off. Thank You Sir. watch this video have help me fix my circuit breaker. Thank You again.
Normally I'd turn off the main but I'd rather risk death than listen to my wife complain.
Your comment made me bust out laughing, thanks!
Thanks Mr. Donovan! This is exactly what I needed. As a first time home buyer, I became overwhelmed with electrical woes soon after buying the home. One by one, the lights and ceiling fans in the house began to shut off and or blink continuously. I am slowly getting a handle on everything through helpful you tube videos such as yours.
Wow, there's a lot of controversy here. All I can say is thanks. Your video is to the point and your views on safety are in line with mine.
This helped me a lot, my total cost $14.99, thank you sir
I could not find a main switch on my box however I turned all breakers to the off position before removing the cover and popping off the the broken one. Your instructions were simple and I took the precautions you mentioned. The kitchen and family room connections have been restored. Thank you so much!
I just saved $165 for a service call by installing a new circuit breaker myself! A great video that starts where I needed it to start; how to get to breakers. Et viola! New breakers in, old dead one out. THANK YOU!
Thanks for sharing the electrical insights--which allowed me to please my Grandmother and mother with some home repairs this morning! Right on!
My main power line switch was outside! I got a little nervous when you opened your box and it was at the top, and when I opened mine it didn't seem to exist. Luckily I decided to check outside and sure enough, there it was. I also replaced an ACFI circuit breaker, which had 3 wires, not 1. Also scared me, but I used common sense. Thanks for the video and safety tips!
Was anyone else holding their breath while Old Les waved the end of that screwdriver all over the breaker box while he struggled with the circuit breaker removal ??
Yeah this is a how-not-to video.
Wrong type of screw driver on a live panel.
He turned the power off didn't he?
@@calebproductions5970 NO. Only a bitch would worry about clock over SAFTY.
@@BladeJones Hahahaha!! Exactly. 😂😂
Thanks for the video. Changed one out in 20 minutes and saved myself about $50-$100. Appreciate it.
This is a great demo meant only for smart people. Thanks Les.
Thank you for the video, great tips.
For those who are posting disrespectful comments about this gentleman, seriously have some respect for your elders. The man has been doing this for just as long as you have been alive or longer. What is wrong with you all, if you do not agree with what he is demonstrating move on or pay for an electrician to do the work for you.
The issue isn't about how qualified he is to perform this, it's about why he posted this as an instructional video for people of unknown qualifications. It should always be assumed that your audience has little to no knowledge- especially here. It is wonderful he feels comfortable swapping a breaker with a live box, but he makes no effort to address the danger of doing it with little to no experience.
I very much agree with respecting the elders and appreciate his effort to put this video online, but even as an unlicensed electrician I spotted multiple EXTREMELY DANGEROUS acts during this video. I don't mind him skipping a safety PSA, but he literally told people that he doesnt turn off the circuit main before changing out the breaker, and then proceeded to unscrew a breaker with a metal screw driver.
@@eugenelee9096 do they make not metal screwdrivers?
Thank you very much for this video, sir. I greatly appreciate the explanation and directions. I was stymied trying to fix a blown breaker and admittedly stubborn pride led me to search this out instead of asking a friend or calling an electrician. You not only helped fix my lights, but saved my pride. I'd hit Like more than once if I could.
THANK YOU - loved the calm instruction. This is not for children obviously and not for people who can afford to hire out, desk and chair folk, ...APPLE PEOPLE. Love it, love it love it, thank you.
Thank you! Obvioulsy, the previouos people who have commented about your safety, have NO BRAINS!! Thank you for your help! Single girl figuring things out and you helped totally!
Susan Opperman You are welcome. Don't be to harsh on the lessor sex (mails), you girls have about four ounces more brain mass than they do so you do have an advantage, along with more common sense.
He clearly discusses that he is choosing to do the work hot, but also explains how to turn off the power first. Since it simply explains the subject, how to swap out a circuit breaker, and is only about 5 minutes, I think it is more than sufficient for general info.
He didn't go over code, wire diameter, amperage or many other things that are relevant to the topic, but he covered the basics. If you choose do do your own work you are the one responsible for it. You should understand safety basics and though a shock from this can kill you, it's more likely to give you a nasty zap or melt your screwdriver or some random thing like that.
Thank you very much for taking the time to make this video. While watching it, I thought myself ... small annoyance.. I would turn off the main power switch. That said... thanks again much and forget all the naysayers and disrespectful people on this and other RUclips videos. It is OK to point out suggestions politely, beyond that, some people are jerks. Pay not attention to them Les. 100's of other viewers are thankful for your efforts but don't leave comments. Cheers
It cost me about $5 and I did it ...except I cut off the main circuit breaker first.
I had to change a breaker and a contactor on my A/C unit in the same session. Had and aging breaker (35 yo) and aging contactor (25 yo). Contactor was sticking on, so I used the breaker panel to turn it on and off a few times. Then I fried my breaker, too. Well, I fixed them bot on my first try. Made sure I turned off the main breaker, wore rubber shoes, rubber gloves and stood on cardboard. Not dying because I decided not to pay my electrician $65.00 to swap it for me. Job cost $17 in parts.
Thank you for taking the time and assist the home owner. God Bless
I think there are a lot of people here who are focusing on the wrong thing. YES! This man decided NOT to turn off the main power before performing this task. For all of you out there there is a special thing that is hard to come by these days and it is called EXPERIENCE. If you have enough experience in a particular area then you know what you can and cannot do. This man obviously knows that for added safety precautions he SHOULD have turned off the power. On the other hand he knows how to accomplish this task without doing that. In fact he even stated "Normally when I change a circuit breaker I turn off the power to the circuit breaker" at about 1:40 in the video. So for all of you out there that think there should be a million warning labels on everything you do so that you don't hurt your precious ego remember that there are worse ways to learn a lesson. You all need to remember that we as a people should be learning from our elders and from scientific advancements. Who do you think figured out to turn off the power before doing this procedure? It was some old guy that made a mistake. From that point on he LEARNED FROM HIS EXPERIENCE and told others not to do it. That doesn't mean it can't be done without turning off the power!
So instead of bashing this experienced person for trying to each someone how to save themselves some money, how about a nice thank you and maybe a positive comment or a neutral side not about the power issue. You all aren't the brightest bulbs on the christmas tree but you don't have to act like a shorted fuse.
Thank you Les Donovan.
Reminds me of my dad. Always working on live circuits. 😊
Fabulous video. Obviously I would wear gloves and always try to work with one hand only since I'm not a pro like the narrator (and of course it goes without saying we don't want to short out a neighboring breaker), but the basic idea of how to get it out is conveyed. Great job!
Thanks for taking the time to post this video. My electrical problem was solved by replacing the circuit breaker! Laura
Thank you for the video. Changed a circuit breaker for the first time ever. I did shut off the main power and kept it off though.
Dead or angry wife? Yeah I choose dead 🤣.
Thats funny lol
Hello Les, I wanted to thank you for making this video. Very informative and clear. Thank you very much.
Sorry Les. You have probably forgotten more about this subject than your criticizers will ever know. Obviously they have no idea how a breaker panel works. If they did, I'm sure they would have been more thoughtful before showing their ignorance. The way you maintained you cool I can only admire!
THANKS FOR SHOWING YOUR METHOD HOW TO CHANGES C/B ON THE CONTROL PANEL.
I could listen to Les talk all day long.
Thank you for this video. I did it exactly as you showed w/o turning off all power.
bro you must be a ghost because all the electricians said you would die if you didn't call them.
Les, thank you for your valuable information. And yes, I am also not an idiot like the idiots freaking out about nit turning off the main breakers. I actually understand how electrical panels are set up.
Changing all the clocks in the house would annoy your wife a lot less than attending your funeral.
I thought the same thing
Kevin Durette, you can't say that for sure.
He'd rather risk death than listen to his wife's bitchin. I know how he feels.
NailgunDeath I assume your wife OWNS a nail gun, then? O well...
Kevin Durette ill take it that Kevin is not married than... .
Thank you for the help, saved calling a repair person
Very helpful...I just changed mine! Saved 100 bucks.
Your welcome. Glad it helped you.
Thank you for great tips. My first time, I just finished replace the water heater circuit breaker without turned off the main power switch.
you make it simple and easy and of course turn the main breaker switch off thanks for this video
DanteM is right. You say, "First, remove the wire..." NO... FIRST TURN OFF THE BREAKER and only after you're sure it is off, then put the screwdriver to the screw to remove the wire! Please change this before somebody fries themselves. Also the guys comment about working while holding a screwdriver is right, too!
Late for work...this cheered me rite up. You should work with electricity more, and make sure you record it. Good day!
Thanks for the refresher, now I'm off to Home Depot. Cheers!
After Home Depot, you should pay a visit to your local funeral home and tell them which casket you want.
Thank you, great video. I love your reasoning for not turning the power off, cuz your wife doesn't want to have to reset clocks. Brilliant.
Thanks for the info. Had to do this today and this video helped out a lot.
Les thank you so much. Great steps . Very practical. Good Man Les.
Thank you sir for posting this video.👍🤝☺
I am too much of a coward to attempt this but at least you let me identify the problem so that when I do call an electrician I have an idea of what it is that they have to do.
Thanks Les, that was very helpful and a little funny.
Even if you are comfortable replacing a breaker on a hot panel, you should remember that people watching and learning, need to learn the correct and safe way to do it. I'm comfortable doing it that way, but I would never teach anyone else to do that.
thank you kindly for your help. just the tip on how to remove the circuit breaker saved me... :-) God bless you!
I used this video to change my own breaker, however my power was off at the main so I was more comfortable doing it. I did learn from this video though and I was willing to change it live, but after reading comments I think I would turn off the breaker first and remove it then remove the wire.
I’m sorry, but you didn’t test the load before sticking the screw driver. Holy cow sir. I would shut off the Main switch as we know how that screw driver can go and slip possibly touching other live wires! I’m glad that you’re alive, but I can’t go by your steps. I only watched this to remind myself how to do it safely and correctly.
he replace a breaker the right way.. he did not get electrocuted great job..
Hey, thanks! You made it easy, Sir!
Great job and good luck
Well done video; I don't fear opening my panel now so that I may hook up some CT clamps for a kwh consumption project ..
Thank you for making this video.
Thank you! This was educational.
Always de energize the circuit breaker box by switching off the main breaker before ever thinking about changing a breaker and use a not touch voltage tester to check to see which one might be bad before you do. In any case where your unsure if DIY can get you killed or injured call an electrician and take a bid before okaying having it done.
I am glad you talked about safety first. HOWEVER
You may have missed a few safety steps:
1.) Turn off the main power, even if you have to reset clocks...
2.) Turn off the breaker you are working on.
3.) Test for zero voltage (~AC) before inserting a screwdriver.
4.) Consult an expert. These safety tips were recommended by a community of amateurs (myself included).
Thanks for sharing this . Got one that's weak.
Great video Les. I will replace my breaker this PM. (Y)
First, thanks for posting this, helped me out a lot.
Quick question, I have a house that is about 40 years old. I have found a several electrical outlets that "dried or rotten out" the plastic was brittle and broke at the touch. I've replaced them. What is the standard amp electrical outlet and breaker for everyday household items, such as coffee pot, computer lamps etc?
The standard house circuit for lights and small appliance is 15 amps on a 14 gage wire. However, you must be careful not to overload the circuit with too many lights and small appliances. For a major appliance such as a refrigerator, they are usually wired on a dedicated circuit using 12 gage wire with a 20 amp circuit.
15 amps wired on a 14 size wire.
Stop giving this man shit he does not have to turn off the main power
Did I miss it or did you not shut off the circuit breaker you changed before you removed the live wire from it?
If you are uncomfortable about it then turn it off however, there is no need as once the black wire is removed the circuit is dead. The buss bar behind the circuit breaker is still alive unless you turn off the main breaker. I have changed many circuit breakers and have done it just like I do in the video.
***** what if there is a backfeed of voltage on the cable you pull out? Because a "handyman" has done his own work and joined 2 circuits together at a power point in the house? What if you slip and touch the frame and the buzz bar with your screw driver, that wood that you are standing on is going to do nothing when a swichboard blows up in your face!!! Put this video down immediately, before someone gets killed!!
If you feel the need then turn it off but it is not necessary if you follow instructions.
Vaughan Klein Get a life and get over yourself lol, Jesus man. I appreciate the fact you feel you are protecting people with your comments, however knowledgeable folks will know you lack experience. This is the correct way to do this, the guy is a pro, and knows his shit. He warns to play it safe at the beginning of the video. That said, I have many electrician friends and there ARE situations (businesses, etc) that simply cannot be shut down. Electrical work can be very dangerous, so can say, flying a plane or driving a car. This is residential voltage (200 amps max), imagine the industrial situations where power cannot be interrupted and working on live equipment is mandatory. There are inherent risks in this line of work.
509Mathias
My comment was about shutting off the one circuit breaker before being replaced, not the main breaker. He was removing a live wire rather than shutting off the one breaker or popping it out to remove power. Experienced folks wouldn't need to watch the video. It is supposed to be instructional to those who don't know how to do it. Why else would anyone post such a video? Take your own advice:)
Very helpful tips Thanks
Thanks so much!
Thanks for the info. Just what I wanted to see; work is complete and no one is dead. Experience is key to do this method but accident happen. No one is perfect.....WaTcH oUt cleverness. Live wire, live person.
Thank you for sharing your expertise. TomB
Yes. I would recommend that your remove the breaker from the panel and check it with an ohm meter to determine if it function properly. With breaker out of the panel determine if you have continuity across the breaker in the on position and that you don't in the off position. Most likely the breaker will fail this test based on your experiences.
I wonder how many people here who aren't even electricians are giving this guy shit for not turning off the main power first
Agree 100%
All of them
Safety first is what I've always followed, you only have one life to live!
Professionals like this fellow know how to safely work with live wiring. Me? In a pinch I (successfully) did it once. I don't have the appetite to do it again. In my view it's not a huge deal to reset a few clocks. Fellow weekend warriors, if we are to be in error, let it be on the side of caution. I cracked up when he talked about his wife and resetting the clocks.
thank you that was great GOD BLESS YOUA'L FLA MAN
Thank you for the useful video.
It takes a very steady hand.
Really helpful
Great tip about standing on the wood. My panel is right above my sub pump hole. Lol
SHEED!!!!! Nah, I'm good. I'll just turn off the power and move on. Thanks for the video.
Great video. Thank you
One method of avoiding having to reset clocks is to buy radio controlled (atomic) clocks. They are great. You can get them in analog forms or digital. The time is always accurate to the second and you never have to adjust them for DST.
Like Sgt Shults - I know nu-thing.....how can I tell what gauge wire is being used?
I have a 220v 20amp breaker in box
I would like to replace the 20amp with a 30 amp
but I don't know if the wire is safe to use with 30amp.
I can't see the wire at the box or at the outlet -
so if I remove the outlet cover can I see something that will identify what gauge wire?
Or do you have to remove the breaker box cover and get in there to find out ?
Well Les, it is very difficult to change all the clocks when you are dead.
LMAO!!!
Don't be huffy Rosemary. If you anoint yourself as a teacher you have a responsibility to teach safety around hazardous actions. This man is violating all safety protocols and teaching wrong. When you teach wrong stuff about hazardous materials you have dead people as your students. Don't defend actions that may lead to death. That is not teaching. That is killing.
Lass-in Angeles Well apparently you haven't read most of the comments below that have been written by MULTIPLE TRAINED ELECTRICIANS. Before you comment negatively about something, confirm your suspicions first. Les is correct.
That's wrong. If he had died, it would mean he had successfully avoided having to reset the clocks and that he could rest easy knowing his wife would be on time for the funeral. I mean know offence to you Les, I just couldn't help making the joke. I with you, I would also not shut everything down to change it. Especially because the wire you are pulling out has been de energized by shutting off the switch. And any way, getting a shock from 120V isn't usually the end of the world. I bet there is more chance of dying on the morning commute by the hand of an angry degenerate than there is from 120v. Or maybe I just have some strange resistance in my body. Or maybe...maybe I actually dead from that first time and I just don't realize this is the other side. Hmmm...Trump? Is it more of an indication?
I've changed a couple, but don't consider myself an electrician by any means. Also, I'm not taking any chances, plus my box is old, so I'm turning off the main or/and pulling my outside meter. Just to be double safe.( or in case I slip with that screwdriver ).
I this guy risked his life so his wife didn't complain that is fucking nuts
Thanks Les great video!
Good info, always turn off main power to be safe.
WELL DONE, THANK YOU FOR THE INFO
Thank you for this video on changing out a circuit breaker. Myself, I shall turn off the Main Power. Can reset my clocks.
Since April 2017 my (forner) Landlord's wife simply blew me off (as simply being another pesky tenant) when I called about my ceiling lights, and half of my wall outlets (all of those connected to the circuit breaker in question) on one bery windy day.
Sadly, my circuit breaker is working fine. I have a broken wire someplace. Probably, where the new wiring connects to my existing wiring.
@@wmhjarvis That sounds dangerous
I only have one working outlet on this line (from this circuit breaker). All the rest of them no longer work.
I don't know if there is a more dangerous video on YT. If you are a novice doing a basic circuit breaker switch-out, please review other DIY videos. I hope that you are doing OK Les!
Les, is it safe to replace a circuit breaker with one of a higher amperage?
thank you for your informative video
I changed to breaker because my well pump stopped but it stilll wouldn't work. I installed a new pump one a year ago. How do I check if there is a break in the wire to the pump? Or any other ideas.
Thanks!
Would you mind helping me? It was 108 here today and we blew a breaker, I wear a morphine patch, overheating=bad. I changed the bad breaker, all was well, tonight another breaker blew (one side read 4 v). I replaced that but now one side reads 12v (good) another reads 17v (not good) and the power wasnt restored to our ac and kitchen outlets. I did have some challenge screwing in one lead, but seemed like I got them all? What causes a too-high reading and shouldnt it still have restored power? Thanks so much, we can't afford $150 twice today for a quick breaker change, one I succeeded, one clearly not.
You're a good man
Thank you Les! Although it is a mystery to me how you managed to connect a live wire to the new circuit breaker without turning off the main power switch, and not get zapped. Cannot understand this bit.
Thanks for the video!
The wire is not live until it makes contact with the terminal of a seated breaker that is in the on position. Before then it is an open circuit. That is not to say that he couldn't get into trouble elsewhere in that panel and should have dealt with the little woman's guff instead of working in the panel without turning off the main breaker.
Great job. Thank you
NEC 2017 Lighting fixtures above a pool must be installed at a minimum height of?
Not using an insulated shaft 1000 volt rated electricians screwdriver, no gloves, no arc protection for live panel work. are you nuts? not even electrical long nose pliers. This is risky, if you're going to do live work do it with the right tools.