How To Work on LIVE CIRCUITS - Replacing Circuit Breakers in Old ZINSCO Panel

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How To Work on LIVE CIRCUITS - Replacing Circuit Breakers in Old ZINSCO Panel

Рет қаралды 497,135

3 жыл бұрын

There are many old-school breakers out there still working today, even though their companies have shut down, and these materials have been outlawed for safety reasons. Many of these terrible breakers...are in my house currently. So today we swap them out, and talk about WORKING ON LIVE CIRCUITS SAFELY.
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PRODUCTS USED IN VIDEO:
Zinsco 20a Breaker : amzn.to/3qvNOI7
Electrical Hot Gloves: amzn.to/39HnzYa
Face Shield: amzn.to/3bJFRLd
Fluke Voltmeter: amzn.to/3qsKq0A
Connecticut Electric reached out to me about a year ago and we sat down and did an episode together talking about many of the products they offer. They manufacture brand new breakers for old legacy electrical systems like Federal Pacific, Zinsco, Wadesworth, Pushmatic, Challenger, and Murray.
When I told them I have an old Zinsco panel they asked me to snap a picture of all of the breakers and they offered to send me all new replacement breakers so I could test out their equipment. I happily agreed and thought it would be a great opportunity to test out my new GoPro 9 in the process. Many of you have asked that I strap on a GoPro and work so you can see first hand how I work. So I went and bought one so I could replace all my breakers.
I found, in the process, that one of my busses was damaged, and it was the spot on the bus where the existing 100 amp main breaker attaches. You can tell that there's been some heating issues over the years and when I tried putting the new 100 amp breaker in it's place it gave me a lot of trouble. But that's not a flaw in the breaker, it's a flaw in the bus. All of the other breakers went in just fine and now I have a practically new panel...except that I'm going to be ripping it all down and replacing it soon lol. That damaged bus makes me a little leery, even though I haven't had any issues with it in the past.
Once I got all of the new breakers in I began working on the live main breaker. I didn't have the luxury of the power being disconnected on this one, so I put on hot gloves and a face shield because of the environment I was working in. I don't recommend working on live wires if you don't have to. It's extremely dangerous, even when you're fully aware and paying attention. But every once in awhile you do need to work on live circuits, and there are companies that make PPE just for the occasion.
There are full flash suits that can be worn, however I chose not to wear them in this situation. I have many years of experience in this trade, I've worked on live circuits for years so I used the amount of PPE that I wanted to for the situation. This is also my own home, my own company, my insurance, so it was my liability to work with the level of PPE I did. Some would say I shouldn't have bothered wearing any at all, others would say I should have had the full suit on. Every electrician is the smartest electrician on the planet, so take what they say with a grain of salt. Just be careful working on live circuits. Make sure you wear proper PPE (information can be found in NFPA 70E), and don't do this kind of work unless you are a licensed and insured electrician, or are under the direct supervision of one.
#livecircuit #electrician #connecticutelectric
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Пікірлер: 1 200

@ucnhtmenow1 2 жыл бұрын

Even though I've been doing electrical for almost 2 decades, I still like watching simple "how to" videos, even if I already know how to do something, because everyone does things a bit differently and can still contain informative information that you might not have thought about, especially with code/technology changes..

@jonp.6131 2 жыл бұрын

Same. I like to pick up new tips and techniques

@edgarumanzor1988 2 жыл бұрын

That’s what I called to be open minded congratulation

@etiennea.delarosa2383 Жыл бұрын

How many times have you used a faceshield? be honest now... I replace live panels all the time... I just take a leg off tape it, then the other leg tape it... once they all taped up is game over, old panel off new panel up...

@KenBeaconHill 3 жыл бұрын

This is my favorite electrical channel. So well done with intelligence, humor and modesty. Excellent.

@ElectricianU 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@apituraga9488 3 жыл бұрын

Been an Electrician for 20 years and never worn insulated gloves... until last week when I opened a 415volts 200amps DB, I looked at the crowded wires and I just felt I need gloves on. Have to delay the job for about and hour when I hunt around for gloves... something in my guts just gave the feeling that something bad is going to happen if I don't take care. Sometimes when you get more experience, you can begin to just 'smell' the risks... and it begins with testing the circuits with multimeters over and over and over again. Regardless of experiences, we should always trust the meters.

@garbo8962 3 жыл бұрын

Hope you send gloves out every 6 month to be tested. Each sparky thetefore needs 2 pairs of gloves. We rolled rubber gloves up to check for leaks before each use. In summer always wore thin white gloves inside ofvrubber gloves to absorb sweat.

@hmelectricincelectricalcon8327 8 ай бұрын

That is his jerkoff gloves special shield so he doesn't get all in his eyes

@geniusmarcsays2434 Ай бұрын

last saturday i was working on some main panel in a building and we shut down main breaker and backup breaker, then i tested and there was current still, it turned out the client has a solar power inverter connected to batteries and it was leaking back current from the input wires... about 95 volts both wires, so after turning the inverter off, voltage dropped to zero. it is always important to keep checking before touching

@OEB__94 13 күн бұрын

Bro facts

@50srefugee 3 жыл бұрын

DIYer here. You have no idea how valuable videos like this are--I only wish they had been available when I owned my home and often DIMS. That house (wired with fabric covered 14ga) started out with a ZINSCO panel; had to replace a breaker once with a modern upgrade, which was nice but pricey ($20 back in the 90s; regular breakers were $5 or $6, as I recall). A couple of years later, I was able to have the 100 amp service upgraded to a 200 amp Siemens. Watching the pro do that was a great education--although I still get shivers when I remember him replacing the live service drop cable down from the pole--in a light rain. He was an old guy, which to me means he had survived his mistakes--better than any license or certification in my book. Key tip: replace the wires AFTER pulling the breaker. [smacks forehead]. How did I not figure that out?] I noticed you clipping a couple of wires with excess exposed conductors. What is the deal with guys baring so much of the conductors? I see that on a lot of outlets and switches I replace.

@adirondacker007 3 жыл бұрын

Working a hot panel is kinda like being on a first date. You better know what you can and cannot touch.

@philiphorner31 3 жыл бұрын

second date....well...

@TheCompton1963 3 жыл бұрын

😂😂😂😂

@benefactionhindrance 3 жыл бұрын

Ha!

@robkershner1911 3 жыл бұрын

So what you're saying is If you glove up you can touch everything!!!

@TheBigstve 3 жыл бұрын

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

@freshgodgmv9527 3 жыл бұрын

Im a electrician in Jamaica and im going for my diploma in electrical Installation. Your channel have helped me alot during my studies . keep up the good work my friend 👍

@raymond3722 3 жыл бұрын

Fresh God I did electrical installation for my practical at school didn't get too further as I would like,but I know some the basic.i change my breaker panel and meter socket my self,I hope to go further in it..electrician U give us some real lessons.

@provocativethoughts3819 3 жыл бұрын

Yow a heart Granville you attend mi G ??

@freshgodgmv9527 3 жыл бұрын

@@provocativethoughts3819 no old Harbor

@chinuasolomon3553 3 жыл бұрын

Link me up I am a electrician from Jamaica but I am living in antigua

@chinuasolomon3553 3 жыл бұрын

Maybe I can give you some pointers too

@rogerdavid3297 3 жыл бұрын

as a electrician who retired five years ago, i worked for forty years in industrial electrics.it makes me smile to see american electricians all kitted out ppe,yet they don,t use insulated screwdrivers.

@garbo8962 3 жыл бұрын

Was told for years to wear 100% cotton t shirts underwear & socks under our company supplied PPE. Now they are saying to only wear approved PPE tee shirts under PPE ling sleeve t shirts but companies refuskng to pay for them.

@mikeanshit158 3 жыл бұрын

Face shield and rubber gloves. But no long sleeve shirt?

@tomliii8619 3 жыл бұрын

Or don't even wrap tape aroung the bare metal. LOL.

@MontyRL 3 жыл бұрын

I mean I use insulated drivers. Not everyone's the same

@jimmypennell8831 3 жыл бұрын

The shield and gloves are uncomfortable and take some getting used to but it could keep you from getting your head blown off. Speaking as one that's done plenty of hot work 3 phase power. Been in the game 21 years now myself. Glad to say I only been shocked a couple of times. Worst I ever had was off single phase 120V. Household current will kill you. Believe it. If you got gloves and shield... Wear em

@quickboy455 3 жыл бұрын

I have to say man, because of watching your videos. I started trade school for electrical and im about to finish school in May. You really inspired me. Keep up the great work 🙂

@stan56lombard 3 жыл бұрын

Same bro! He inspired me as well. I pray we both grow & master this trade.

@TheElectrican 3 жыл бұрын

Congrats fellas, its a great future!

@quickboy455 3 жыл бұрын

@@stan56lombard Thanks man we got this!

@llanman81 3 жыл бұрын

Can’t wait to see the panel upgrade! I always get a little anxious when the time comes to turn that main on for the first time. I move off to the side too, thanks for taking the time to video this for us bro!!

@turboflush 3 жыл бұрын

Take lid off for anything more than fliping a breaker.

@MikeKing-gl6pu 3 жыл бұрын

You should start by telling people to use a insulated screwdriver while working in a hot panel!

@rogertorrez1798 3 жыл бұрын

Lmfao.

@hjooy 3 жыл бұрын

Any professional electrician only has insulated screwdriver in his toolbox. Uninsulated screwdrivers are for carpenters.

@j2o3sh 3 жыл бұрын

I personally put insulation tape around my drivers and not waste my money on the insulated stuff

@j2o3sh 3 жыл бұрын

Just to point out. Not being a dick ... but if you have insulated rubber gloves on and a arc flash shield ... short sleeves just looks ... for lack of a better word ... stupid

@edcrouse5491 3 жыл бұрын

Insulated screwdriver is not necessary

@jammnj1975 3 жыл бұрын

Bro, you've helped me get my drive back with my trade 💪,I've been doing commercial electrical and building automation/controls since January 2000,,,, and let's just say life got crazy some ten years ago and I've jumped back into construction about 6 months ago and it's through a friend and he doesn't touch a wire,so he has me doing any electrical and I also help with the other builds,,but wiring is my passion and watching your DIYs,it stokes me on how you remind me of how proud it is to stand behind your work and the passion you put it ,pumps me up and is helping with getting back on track with my life and hold it down,,you kick ass boss💪🙏

@csadler 3 жыл бұрын

As an Electrical Engineer for 30 years, who work in digital (5 volts), thank you for the education in power. Love learning more!! Thanks!

@JackKirbyFan Жыл бұрын

Yup, I know exactly what you mean. I do flip houses now and going from 5 and 12 volts to 120 was an adjustment. This channel helped me learn the code!

@geniusmarcsays2434 Ай бұрын

when i hear 5 volts.... i didn't know something runs on 5 volts.. yesterday i saw some guy installing 5 volts LED lights, we use 220v in my country

@michaelmolter6180 3 жыл бұрын

Have you considered insulated screwdrivers? I'd be more worried about shorting a live screwdriver (especially a long one) to anything grounded in the box than about accidentally touching 120 VAC with my hands. They're pretty cheap too.

@AmericanOne9621 3 жыл бұрын

Or if your a chepo like me throw some tape around it...lol

@jfbeam 3 жыл бұрын

@@AmericanOne9621 Shrink wrap. (I was thinking the same thing... "It's OK, I'm a pro, ignore my totally inappropriate Ace Hardware screwdriver." :-))

@AmericanOne9621 3 жыл бұрын

@@jfbeam Been there more times then I should of had...lol

@illestofdemall13 3 жыл бұрын

@@AmericanOne9621 Milwaukee, Wiha and many other brands have affordable 1000V insulated screwdrivers.

@eddiew2325 3 жыл бұрын

@@illestofdemall13 no offense but insulated screwdrivers wont protect you from anything. i learned that from experience

@rrussell39 3 жыл бұрын

Texas Master Electrician and contractor since 1991. I like what you are doing with your videos. I wish we had KZfaq when i first got into the trade, it would have made things easier for sure. Keep up the good work.

@davidarmentano Жыл бұрын

Where are you based? I’m an apprentice and looking for a place

@doityourselfifitcoststwice7037 3 жыл бұрын

I love the arc flash rated skin on his arms LOL we get so into “safety” we loose sight. I was always taught before NFPA 70E to have long sleeves, a pair of leathers, and to bow your head down when jamming a neater or closing a main. Now with mandate safety are we safer ? Chances are nothing happens anyway, and I don’t believe there was a problem before NFPA 70E in fact I hate it. but I find the arc flash equipment with short sleeves so interesting.

@strykerjones8842 3 жыл бұрын

You can tell he’s a “master electrician” by the way he waves his screwdriver all around the energized busbar like a “master magician” waves a wand.

@matthewlewellen6516 3 жыл бұрын

i especially liked prying the breaker out while leveraging towards the energized buss.

@fmphotooffice5513 2 жыл бұрын

@@matthewlewellen6516 ...and at 4:54 ???...!

@talbertadams6586 2 жыл бұрын

@@matthewlewellen6516 And how would you do it.? Just wondering.

@filthymcnasty3788 2 жыл бұрын

He shut off the main so they busbar is dead ….. like your brain cells

@filthymcnasty3788 2 жыл бұрын

@@talbertadams6586 don’t listen to these twats . The main breaker is off therefore not feeding the busbar. These guys are clowns

@Einzee 3 жыл бұрын

My favorite panels are the Siemens and QO types with bolt in breakers. There's something exciting about putting a metal screwdriver directly onto a live bus. Also, I noticed how you instinctively stood to the side as you energized the main. I ALWAYS do the same and tell everyone in the area to stand clear. There is alot of vids out there of equipment failures that result in needless injuries.

@ElectricianU 3 жыл бұрын

I thought about mentioning that after i started editing the footage, I'm glad you noticed me step to the side. I do that on all gear.

@NieveIsThicc 3 жыл бұрын

My boss drilled that into my head from the very start. Always stand to the side when you energize panels.

@NieveIsThicc 3 жыл бұрын

As a side note, fuck those panels where the doors swing vertically

@Zerfie13 3 жыл бұрын

@@NieveIsThicc Haha we, at work, are constantly replacing old panels and pot boxes like those vertical-swinging doors, and yea they suck.

@sterlingferguson7234 3 жыл бұрын

@@NieveIsThicc 🤣😂😅

@elioselectric468 3 жыл бұрын

Great demo. Most people need to understand that the voltage in residential is far less dangerous than industrial and commercial. The arc flash from this equipment(120, 208, 240 volts) is nothing compared to 277, 480, 600 and up. I try my best to pull the meter if possible, insulated tools prevents accidents big time and when in the danger zone or working space, everyone must keep out until I say so. Licensed experienced electricians only... when in doubt shut it down and test, test, test. Always treat equipment like it's live even when you know it's not

@yongminhuh146 2 жыл бұрын

I like how you taking out each individual circuit breaker out, one at a time wires still attached to the circuit breaker and rewire back to new one , and then insert back to slot. Great work! Thanks! 😀😀😀

@Hitman.13. 3 жыл бұрын

Right on time ! The production quality has clearly improved (It was already great), best sparky channel on youtube 💪

@preachtheword1689 3 жыл бұрын

This is what we need. Video on an actual work site. More of these. Thanks for being an inspiration. 👍

@normILL 3 жыл бұрын

@PirataEscondido 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks also. I want to go to trade school now

@emuboyph Жыл бұрын

I'm an electrician too and I am watching these amazing tutorial videos because there are many different designs and even new models to know about electrical components. Also different techniques from different amazing electricians around the world like this guy.

@ArkamasRoss 3 жыл бұрын

All your disclaimers are why I like to reference your channel over any other and it has contributed a lot to beginning my path as a prospective apprentice. I just don’t like DIYer videos for the sake that you take so much more into account most normal guys can’t - especially where safety is concerned.

@jdpinbaytown 3 жыл бұрын

Zinsco usually always has Bus Damage, No way I would waste time changing Breakers in one!, Replace it with Square-D QO and be done

@ralph5450 3 жыл бұрын

Yay

@tailgunner2 3 жыл бұрын

The only problem I have with Sq D is the tiny terminals those panels use. It is like that German company forgotten the US uses larger wires for lower voltages. That and the threads for QOB panels are notorious for stripping.

@tailgunner2 3 жыл бұрын

@Thomas Heydrick For me, the hype for Leviton panels have worn off. I'm not impressed the main lugs are smaller than most other panels, barely accepts 4/0 aluminum under normal 200 amp services. God help us if the service requires 250mcm for voltage drop, there is no way to change the lugs on leviton panels. For some strange reason, the lug for the neutral Buspar is larger than the phase lugs. WTF. I stick with EATON now (I used to swear by Murrey for the last 15 years) Good breakers, good panel guts, but God dam the cans are made of tin for residential grade. At least the commercial lines are decent.

@Bremend 3 жыл бұрын

Qo or homeline?

@jdpinbaytown 3 жыл бұрын

@@Bremend QO, I don't like Homeline!

@justaquestion5080 2 жыл бұрын

love the video.. old family story was a neighbor’s child was playing outside in an old house and it was a hot day. she went to take a drink from the outside faucet and was electrocuted. Can you please make a video explaining how to check for stray voltage and what we can do to fix something like this?

@orbnitsky 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for a VERY helpful video! I am only at 3:11 and already you helped me understand why my research is so difficult. I have a weak (mushy) 30 Amp breaker on a paired 240V circuit for my water heater. I see Sylvania on the breaker box and keep seeing Zinsco online when I see breakers that look like mine. They are expensive and seem to show up more on Ebay and mostly used or refurbished, especially when reasonably priced. Since the box is old (bringing some question to the age I am told from landlords of the house I am renting) and now I learn it is no longer approved for installation and the dangers of developing hot connections... a cause for pause. I will pull the cover and look at the bus connections for these 30A breakers and may inspect them all. Seems that Connecticut Electric, Inc. (thank you VERY much!) may have alternatives, hopefully that are plug and play replacements offering a safer install at least for however long I live here. Regardless of whether you make money at this I want you to know how helpful you have already been and may God reward your helping others!

@Tipsy652 3 жыл бұрын

Back in the day I did what you did. Tape up my screwdriver, and work on stuff live. Had a panel blow up because the main lugs were broke inside and shorted when I opened the panel. I would highly suggest wearing your full gear including arc flash suit. I know it’s hot in there but will help. Also use insulated screwdrivers. They aren’t that expensive but the burn unit is.

@doctordev97 3 жыл бұрын

this is why, in my opinion, it should be required by code for there to be a dedicated separate shutoff switch between the meter and the panel, not just a main breaker. if you had a shutoff switch you wouldn't have to worry about doing hot work to swap the main breaker.

@Vanilla_Icecream1231 2 жыл бұрын

Thé problem with that is many places like here have a meter lock meaning the city requires you to pull a permit for a panel change, and if there was a disconnect it’s to easy for someone unauthorized to change the panel

@doctordev97 2 жыл бұрын

@@Vanilla_Icecream1231 Well, the shutoff would be after the meter, so changing the meter would be exactly the same regardless. Besides, making the meter itself safer to work on wouldn't be a bad thing imo, if someone does fuck with it illegally they should be fined, sure, but they don't deserve to accidentally turn themselves into a crispy critter.

@Vanilla_Icecream1231 2 жыл бұрын

@@doctordev97 yeah that’s fair I just meant that’s why many places pervent it but it would make it safer for those doing it illegally cause even If a master electrician of 30 years did if they didn’t pull a permit they could get in big trouble

@doctordev97 2 жыл бұрын

@@Vanilla_Icecream1231 very true. Even qualified professionals still need to get permission.

@WillProwse 3 жыл бұрын

Glad you found a way to force the main breaker in there. What a pain in the ass. I bet you will feel better once you replace that whole thing. Nice arc mask. I need one of those

@PatrickKQ4HBD 3 жыл бұрын

Hello, Will. I have your book. Good to see you here. Count me as among the few that do use PPE, most of the time.

@jman210210 3 жыл бұрын

Hey Will, I have the same face shield it's by Honeywell if you want to check it out. Make sure to get the gloves and also a hood to go under the face shield. I've learned a ton about PV systems from you, something a service electrician like myself never works on!

@midwestconcertvideo 3 жыл бұрын

I'm not sure why he didn't burnish the buss while he was in there.

@infblu3808 2 жыл бұрын

Don't forget the arc-rated clothing to go with that face shield, along with the arc-rated ear plugs and z87 eyepro. For a pro he is severely under-equipped to be performing hot work. Now I don't think he is saying this is how to protect yourself when doing this kind of work. However. If I saw this work being performed on any of my sites or even as a contractor working a job, I would question if that electrical contractor or company deserves their certifications and qualifications if this is their Master Electrician. I've worked on my own circuits for my house hot and I wore at least CAT I Arc-flash hazard PPE. Use the right tools. Wear the right PPE. Or don't. But don't slack on those two things then make a video of yourself doing it and making yourself look an ass for public consumption. Is that harsh? Depends. People get fired for this and then their name gets put out that they are an extreme safety risk which makes it very, very hard to get a good qualified job.

@filthymcnasty3788 2 жыл бұрын

@@infblu3808 lmao talk about overkill. I’m a lineman and we work on house services with leathers . As long as you’re careful “hot” gloves aren’t necessary . Talk to me when you’re handling 27 KV.

@intertrade9536 2 жыл бұрын

🇬🇾 Looking from Guyana, South America . I really appreciated your hands on info of how to handle/ hold live hot wires & not get shock. Safely first then you explained the rubber gloves as needed essential. Also you showed close ups of how to screw in the brakers with there safety tips. How to firstly isolate a hot main wires so as not to accedentially touch them while working. Basically you showed me how to work around my house and NOT get SHOCKED , providing i understood to use ( ALL ) the safety measures. Protect my hands with dry rubber gloves, rubber boots dry . It's best not to work with an active live main but if i must work , then employ these safety measures . Thanks . Close ups video shots are always better for learners continue to use them as they helps us to see & understand best . Thanks . I feel more confident now.

@xslabcabxhearsex 3 жыл бұрын

I’m not a electrician but do residential HVAC.i have learned so much from your videos.live in southern Virginia and there are still a lot of Federal Pacific panels down here.when I’m at a old house and the electricians are changing the service,always ask for a few of the old breakers.like you said,Saturday after hour call,no cooling and have a bad breaker,nice to have one you can use to get them going until you can get another new one.

@icanreadthebible7561 Жыл бұрын

In a pinch, they could do without their clothes dryer. Temporarily "steal" the dryer circuit breaker to feed the A/C condenser to get them through the night or a week end. Just a thought. (Unless they have a gas dryer)

@anthonyelectric6045 3 жыл бұрын

General you can call the power company and schedule a disconnect of the service via meter or service drops. Don’t take unnecessary risks as anything can happen. Nice replacement breakers as a good option.

@NickFrom1228 3 жыл бұрын

True, but here at least they charge a non trivial fee to do so.

@tripatomz3441 3 жыл бұрын

@@NickFrom1228 and can take up to 4 hours after call to come disconnect and then another 4 when calling for a reconnect lol

@pricey4566 3 жыл бұрын

So true it's not worth your life working live in Australia or more specific Queensland haha funny name we are allowed as a contractor to pull the primary fuse from an overhead supply or from an underground supply pillar box legally seems crazy to work live if you don't have to safety should be paramount

@KingcoleIIV 3 жыл бұрын

I'm in a old house with no main shut off and probably will get them to schedule a shut off when I got to put one in. I will also be waiting until fall when it's cooler 😂 it's hot here in texas

@dr.tribbles4145 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah here in Texas we can call the company and they will come out. Saftey takes planning. I would never do a panel change hot😂😂 I'm pretty sure you can get seriously fined for doing it hot as well...

@clatonblade2211 3 жыл бұрын

i love how i spent 10 months in school being told not to ever work hot. "first day of work" ok everything we do is hot :) all but the 347v

@damion1121 3 жыл бұрын

It’s my third day on the job as a maintenance tech and I changed a push button hot and changed a blown fuse in a hot panel. I just graduated 4 days ago lmao.

@clatonblade2211 3 жыл бұрын

@@damion1121 congrats! if you understand how it works 120/240 really is no big deal

@damion1121 3 жыл бұрын

@@clatonblade2211 yeah I’m being careful. I’ve touched 120 in my home before just changing fixtures and it’s only a tickle. Lol

@JeremyPeters 3 жыл бұрын

@@clatonblade2211 240 is just a wake up, about the same as a cup of coffee lol

@clatonblade2211 3 жыл бұрын

@@JeremyPeters most times you are only ever 120 from zero unless you are real dumb lol.

@KevinCoop1 3 жыл бұрын

As a electrical design engineer since 1983, now retired, I can say that you are correct about Zinsco breakers. They sometimes just would not trip. Very dangerous. Most of the rest of the companies you named in the beginning of the video, just got bought out by other companies, not because their breakers were unsafe. I can't believe you said A phase and B phase. Respectfully, Kevin

@Chase_AM 2 жыл бұрын

I am also surprised at how often he describes the separate legs of the phase as different phases on single phase residential. In practice doesn’t cause any real issues, but is factually incorrect.

@KevinCoop1 2 жыл бұрын

@@Chase_AM Correct. A conductor termination point is not a phase.

@lostbird25 3 ай бұрын

Depends on the transformer feeding the house. Alot of POCOs run 3ph OR 2ph in their distribution and use 2ph xfmrs to serve the house so the house is actually using 2 separate phases from the utility. Its 99% of the services in northern California.

@garethblake3941 3 жыл бұрын

I have observed to many near misses working on live electrical installation. One which l recall at a NHS UK hospital where l was called to the loss of all the kitchen electrical power, turned out to be an electrical contactor had unsuccessfully attempted to install a three phase circuit breaker in a live panel. It had tripped a 400 Amp. main supply C/B which had taken out all the kitchen power, the panel he was working on was now internally copper clad and he had suffered severe burns to his arms. The rule is always work on electrically isolated equipment when ever possible. Keep up the good work and stay safe.

@jfbeam 3 жыл бұрын

W.r.t. to PPE, I would recommend keeping the PPE on until the main breaker is closed. There's no protection device between the panel and the meter, or visible anywhere upstream of the meter. So, if that breaker malfunctions, there might be 25kw there, and there might be 500kw. Earlier this year, we had a new 150A 480v breaker explode when closed, third time it had ever been cycled (by us, one would assume Eaton tested it) -- in a 1000A panel. The electrician was in full PPE, but he was still "pretty far from happy." (and yes, it's live work, that panel isn't so easy to power off.)

@mattkrywyj5184 2 жыл бұрын

I’m an electrician, and I love when other electricians act like changing breakers with the busbars off is like disarming a bomb LOL. You gotta be careful, but calm down….I had to change a panel the other day and the meter was seized in the meter box, so I had to both remove the SE cable from the old breaker/panel and then install the hot SE cable into the new panel and main breaker. Just relax (as in don’t build it up as some catastrophic event), use common sense, and have quality gloves and a way to safe off the ends. I find that most people I work with that have trouble working hot have trouble MOSTLY because they’ve built it up in their head as this monumental task. Think about everything he did here other than the main breaker. When it comes down to it, he was changing breakers on a dead busbar….easy. As long as you are smart with your movements, it’s the same as putting breakers in a completely dead panel. Then you get to the main breaker install, and that’s when you have to be smart and calm. If a main breaker that turned off has you hesitant to install breakers on the dead busbar, I venture to say you shouldn’t be doing panel work at all. He did a great job.

@MD-en3zm Жыл бұрын

Probably a good idea for a yt video though considering many people watching may not have that level of knowledge. But yeah, if the main breaker is off changing out the other breakers is pretty easy and I don’t generally wear gloves for that.

@ale15MMv 3 жыл бұрын

Just a suggestion. Its something i like to do prior to putting in breakers, new or used. I like to exercise the breakers a few times to make sure it flips properly along with checking continuity with my meter to make sure when i flip the breaker to the off position there is no continuity and vice versa. All prior to installation.

@donphillips5957 3 жыл бұрын

We did a kitchen remodel for a couple who had an old Zinsco panel with one breaker for the kitchen. I explained to them that their new kitchen would need 5, and this would be an ideal time for a panel upgrade. I wound up putting in a sub panel, they didn't believe me on the need for replacement.

@michaelh9251 3 жыл бұрын

Dude keep it up you convinced me to be an electrician 3B here been grinding hard essential worker 50-60 hour weeks good pay benefits looking at becoming a foreman in a year or so keep the videos coming. Love reviewing and seeing new style breakers

@tyd3407 Жыл бұрын

Hows it going now bro? Im a 2nd year apprentice

@robertmaples3178 3 жыл бұрын

I would remove the cover to have clear work space. No need to risk grounding to it, and no need to risk it falling on your head. Also i would look at the main breaker to look for damage as a result of loose connection.

@KingcoleIIV 3 жыл бұрын

I have stepped away from a pannel and then I hit my forehead on it coming back 😭😭

@DarthTwilight 2 жыл бұрын

I've dabbled with electrical, amd now am trying to apprentice to jump to my Master and pick up the experience along the way. I confess that I've hardly taken the time to look through your videos, (maybe an hour or so) but I can already tell I'm going to be spending a LOT of time on your channel.

@oldskoolwayy 3 жыл бұрын

I came across this channel by mistake but glad I did..instant fan..

@benmusson395 3 жыл бұрын

With any zinsco breaker you can reverse the bussing clips, (2 screws on back side) Doing so would have allowed you to avoid the damaged bussing section.

@LarsDennert Жыл бұрын

Yes or he could have just put the main at the bottom where the bar was good. I can't imagine someone spending all that money on those breakers for only a couple of weeks. Good video on hot work though.

@mxslick50 8 ай бұрын

@@LarsDennert Those were sent to him by Connecticut Electric. Probably free or at lower cost.

@mxslick50 8 ай бұрын

@benmusson395 You can't do that on the top space, look closely at the bus they have stamped indents that won't allow the breaker to clip on. (But you're spot on that most parts of the bus you can swap the breaker clips which will get you to a clean bus connection.)

@garyscott7804 3 жыл бұрын

You should add long sleeve Arc Flash rated CAT 2 Shirt or coveralls to your PPE any exposed skin is not good.

@ON_THE_PERF 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent observation. Glad to see he had the face shield and gloves, but still missing PPE.

@garyscott7804 3 жыл бұрын

@Adam Cosper Anything makes it safer. though I don't believe at a cat2 or less the balaclava and ear plugs are required. But it can't hurt that's for sure.

@jrock865 3 жыл бұрын

@Adam Cosper correct

@rypdx 3 жыл бұрын

I always work on electricity jobs without any of that lmao just my work shirt but bare hands

@Big_AlMC 3 жыл бұрын

Also stored gloves fingers down. 🤔

@shaunbitz3569 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for taking the time to make these videos. I’m still considered as a newbie and I’ve been shadowing a master for the last three years now. I’m trying to learn as much as I can while not learning any bad habits and your videos has been helping me a ton. Thanks again 👍👍

@robodrone4004 3 жыл бұрын

This video was full of bad habits. Please work safely.

@BLESS.theTHUG Жыл бұрын

Dude I was kinda worried the whole video but yo funny ass pulled it off. Good job

@Squat5000 3 жыл бұрын

You should see all the paperwork we have to fill out for any hot work. It is brutal!

@ElectricianU 3 жыл бұрын

I can imagine, do you work for a large company or are you maintenance at an industrial shop?

@Squat5000 3 жыл бұрын

@@ElectricianU Contracting in CA for a Class A general engineering company with a C10. Substation, utility, tower work, and EV charge networks. There are times, especially on the utility and substations side, where things can not be offlined. Testing in tomorrow to get my Journeyman's in Montana. Then I can finally change pace and stay in my home state, commercial, residential, and utility with the local electric coop.

@christheother9088 3 жыл бұрын

Opens panel, holds long screw driver, talks with hands. Makes me nervous.

@Big_AlMC 3 жыл бұрын

He's a master electrician bro. He knows what hes doing 😂

@timdouglass4934 3 жыл бұрын

I use to do the same thing until a veteran electrician pointed out what I was doing. I appreciated that he told me about it.

@raymond3722 3 жыл бұрын

Electrician U,you really goes in real depth in every video which gave me more knowledge and understanding of electrical installation.i really appreciate your efforts..

@ElectricianU 3 жыл бұрын

Glad to help

@whatyouseenow411 2 жыл бұрын

Im a licensed home inspector in Texas, and although I do nothing like you guy's do when it comes to electrical, it's still cool to watch.

@PiRATENAMii 2 жыл бұрын

Watching you do this HOT was making my anxiety levels go through the roof lol After getting electrocuted by 277v a few years ago, I am deathly afraid of working on things HOT but it's also given me a high level of caution when working on anything HOT. Absolutely love your vids btw :)

@justincase4812 2 жыл бұрын

You weren't electrocuted, if you lived to tell about it. Electrocuted means death. Shocked means you lived.

@PHYTEthePOWAH 2 жыл бұрын

I got nipped by 277 working on a hotel, that shit was zesty!

@bogdanaronov351 3 жыл бұрын

I'm sure most of you know this but always check the bus with a meter after shutting off the main.

@zack9912000 3 жыл бұрын

Don't use a harbor fright or a cheapo meter. If you don't have the knowledge and proper tools dont even attempt.

@blindorize 3 жыл бұрын

I'm still kinda new, but what potentially could happen to leave the bus hot after shutting off the main? A faulty main?

@bogdanaronov351 3 жыл бұрын

@@blindorize well the bus would just be hot and whoever working just assumes its dead could get hurt. But yes it would result In a faulty breaker.

@blindorize 3 жыл бұрын

@John Connolly Ahh the old glancing finger test! The most efficient of them all. Thanks for sharing your experience, I''ll definitely be testing no matter what.

@jakedonald7934 3 жыл бұрын

I got hammered working in a panel with the main off, it was an old building, panel was back fed from another panel in the building on one of the branch circuits. Learned my lesson

@kdubs3 3 жыл бұрын

Great video. I hope that no one other than a licensed pro would ever even CONSIDER working on a live panel. We sold a home last year in California where an unlicensed person did some work on a live panel. We had to have the buyer sign a disclosure stating that they were aware that the person who did that died on the property. Your videos are great and you got the message across loud and clear with the PPE equipment.

@coolsnake1134 3 жыл бұрын

Did they die because they screwed up and got electrocuted and that’s why you had to have them sign disclosure disclosure or is there some weird California law with requiring disclosure for any death on a property.

@matthewstringer4424 2 жыл бұрын

I did notice how you didn't check to see if anything was still hot. Got to at least check. Especially to at least make sure the main did cut the power. Great video as always

@justinkemsley8628 3 жыл бұрын

Don't work things hot. You will eventually get bit. Call the power co. to turn the power off. Famous last words " I'm a master electrician " . Train people right from the get go. Secure the power. What is your life worth?

@PacRimElectric 3 жыл бұрын

Wow what a coincidence, I did a survey for a retire community, they wanted to upgrade their panels and all their panels were Zinsco.

@spacecadet4876 9 ай бұрын

Worked on a Zinsco panel for a brother in law that had burned buss exactly like this one. I removed all the breakers, then swapped the buss bars so their stab points were physically different. I did give each bar a cleaning with a green pad to remove grime. It worked good enough after until he was able to hire an electrician to R&R the panel.

@kin9karn4gw 3 жыл бұрын

dude! great video. SO glad you are back. Im in my third year of school and started because of you!

@mervynmanners5625 3 жыл бұрын

word of advice this dude is making to many shcool boy mistakes claims to be a master Electrician im a British electrician so I'm not sure what constitutes a Master so one would think that the recipient is capable of teaching electrical installations the fact that he's not using the appropriate tools for a Electrician tells me that this guy is either lying or he's incompetent and hes pissing me off watching him knowing that guys like you are out there looking for credible advice form competent Electricians

@Woodkin007 3 жыл бұрын

I can't remove the seal without getting a fine. I would suggest the "it was like that when I got here" line. Let them prove otherwise.

@whofixeditanyways 3 жыл бұрын

We had our local power company roll up in a black, unmarked, heavily tinted, antennas everywhere kind of Tahoe. We had pulled the meter for the exact same gig of replacing a main breaker. He showed up because they know when meters are pulled. Smart meters are not just smart for the end user.

@davep6977 3 жыл бұрын

@@whofixeditanyways funny thing. I used to break seals and pull meters all the time. Just had to call utility company and tell them I needed a reseal. They'd have you work safe also. The only seal I couldn't break was my own when I put a new panel in my house where I used to live. Guess that makes sense. At one point I was doing so many upgrades, the line supervisor gave me seals. I'd call in and give them the old and then new seal number. And I had to turn in the old seal.

@anthonyelectric6045 3 жыл бұрын

@@davep6977 yup, that’s usually what the case is when your a licensed electrician. Not the end of the world.

@tomliii8619 3 жыл бұрын

You always need to be careful taking the panel cover off. Some panels have little clearance and you can end up doing some welding. The same applies to putting a panel cover on.

@Aepek 3 жыл бұрын

Loved the PSA warnings, especially the last one of “hammering” the main in, lol.... Was pretty great. Cool that your gonna be replacing the service to your house, can’t wait to watch that vid, & hope it’s the next vid released 🤞🏼😉 Also, know wearing the correct PPE is key, but gotta tell ya, those hot gloves can be a pain at times; especially when trying to get into a tight/small space, but, better to be safe & wear, than not. Have a good one brah✌🏼

@CustomzTV 3 жыл бұрын

i am graduating from lincoln tech and this video is great to help me my teacher say even if the line is dead always treat it like its hot

@steveloux4709 3 жыл бұрын

Test before you touch. Always. Even if you have been working on those circuits all morning and then go to lunch. Test the circuits again before resuming your work.

@svmadwhack 3 жыл бұрын

I thought I was the only electrician with a zinsco panel, lol!

@PatrickKQ4HBD 3 жыл бұрын

Federal Pacific panel in my house.

@aaron74 3 жыл бұрын

We come to find out a majority of electricians own houses with the worst panels. lol

@PatrickKQ4HBD 3 жыл бұрын

@@aaron74 "the cobbler's children have no shoes."

@Veritas-invenitur 3 жыл бұрын

@@PatrickKQ4HBD Terrified

@donzmilky5961 3 жыл бұрын

@@PatrickKQ4HBD until it burned down right?

@jman210210 3 жыл бұрын

Hey Dustin, look into getting a hood for under your face shield. I used to work for Rogers and didn't know I even needed one before working there. Also 100% cotton long sleeves help a lot if you don't have a hot suit in the event of an arc flash. I know you know your stuff either way because I've learned SO MUCH from you lol Can you please do a video on Megger testing insulation? I just bought a Klein ET600 and I'm trying to figure it all out..

@Big_AlMC 3 жыл бұрын

Manual

@georgegonzalez665 3 жыл бұрын

Great video Dustin. Always using ur videos to my advantage. Thank u for what u do.

@jamesnewsom5899 2 жыл бұрын

Nice vid. One suggestion- Remove that outer panel cover so it is not banging you in the head! I always do that for panels big and small that over overhead hinged

@armandotorres626 3 жыл бұрын

When all else fails, beat the shit out of it.. 😂

@CHICAGOHAND 3 жыл бұрын

Good video. I have been doing power line work for 29 years. We have both class 0 and class 2 as our required gear, plus FR clothing. We mostly work on 12,000 volts sometimes 34,000 and on the low side of our transformers are 120 - 480 volts. A suggestion, wear long sleeve natural fiber shirts while doing energized work.

@MicahFunk 2 жыл бұрын

The most important PPE is using your brain. I always work as if whatever it is I'm working on is live. I'm also aware of who may walk up and touch me and complete a circuit to ground. Some of the most simple concepts have kept me safe for over 30 years.

@fishsquishguy1833 2 жыл бұрын

Cool video! Thanks for showing. Don’t like to be watching the electricians at work when they’re doing this and when they’re all decked you in their flash gear it’s barricaded off anyway. Even though it’s just a smaller service panel, still can be deadly to someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. Was impressed! Thanks!

@kennethjohnston1891 3 жыл бұрын

I was thinking why replace the individual breakers if you're going to replace the panel box in a couple weeks

@geogmz8277 3 жыл бұрын

Content? 😅

@thomasauto4862 3 жыл бұрын

I think he did it just for the instructional video. But yes, easier to replace the entire panel

@johnphilpott8730 3 жыл бұрын

I would suggest removing the hinged dead front cover.One less thing to ground out on and allow you to stand in front of the panel without bending your neck.

@mook528 3 жыл бұрын

Or the cover not slam into your head as you hammer a stubborn breaker in 😂

@rprastein 2 жыл бұрын

How do you get it off? I need to replace a breaker in my panel and it has one of those doors, and it will. not. stay open.

@wilburrrrr742 2 жыл бұрын

@@rprastein It's just two short screws that act as hinge points at the top sides.

@rprastein 2 жыл бұрын

@@wilburrrrr742 Thanks, I did finally go to try to replace the breaker and saw that. Then I couldn't get the breaker off -- turns out I was trying to swing it the wrong way, but even once it was out of the box, the terminal screws were on SUPER tight. I had a supervisor/trainee pair out on a "free estimate" visit that turned into I think $100 for them to change the 4-pole breaker with my new one (no warranty), and the supervisor gave the trainee some ribbing for how long it was taking him to get the wires off. One of the breaker contacts had completely vaporized, and there was carbon on the bus bar that they also filed smooth. Working great now, $100 learning experience, money well spent.

@tomsmith3045 6 ай бұрын

Great video! I get that this was just a demo. But in this case, I would have swapped out all the old breakers but the main, then called the power company and asked for a meter pull so you could swap the main breaker. That doesn't require a permit anywhere I've ever heard of, and with those side by side, the lineman would have waited the 5 minutes for you do to the swap. With this one, it's not so much getting shocked, but as you know there's no fuse on the secondary, so if you dropped a wire and it welded itself to the box, you'd be waiting until something melted through or you pulled the meter..either way you'd have some 'splainin to do. Love the content, though!

@joshuajones8455 3 жыл бұрын

That is a lot of money to spend on Conn. Electric breakers for a service getting replaced soon.

@jonholtman6065 3 жыл бұрын

Was thinking the exact same thing

@maskedamender 3 жыл бұрын

Yep me too I was literally searching the comments because I was thinking the same exact thing I've only got one bad zinsco 2 pole breaker and I am absolutely not spending $95 for one freaking breaker when I can get the Cutler Hammer retrofit kit to put in the zinsco metal box!! Altogether including the bus bars retrofit system and the needed breakers $125 versus $95 for one lame breaker!!!... Yep it's a no-brainer for me!!!

@gordonbrown2204 3 жыл бұрын

Slide the breakers down the bus bars so you dont have to use the damaged bit:

@IonVladutu 3 жыл бұрын

Okay thank you, same thought here

@702ringo1 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent video! You did a great job of demonstrating and explaining every step of the process. Thank you very much!!!⚡️👍

@djijspeakerguy4628 2 жыл бұрын

Glad you replaced these. The problem with these Zinsco breakers was that the connection between the breakers and the bus bars would fail due to dissimilar metals, causing an arc. This would cause the internals of the breaker to slowly melt together in the closed position, so if there was an overcurrent fault, the breaker wouldn’t do anything because it was stuck. One of my friends almost lost their house to these breakers. There is really no way to tell if one of them has failed, so it is smart to replace all of them with a modern breaker.

@SparksFlyin 3 жыл бұрын

We are provided all insulated tools. All the ppe you can ever need. Just weird for me to see you stick a standard flat in there hot. 😆 I’m in industrial.

@262markm 3 жыл бұрын

ignorance resy guys dont know what arc flash is

@urethrapapercut7409 3 жыл бұрын

Resi/commercial guy here. As long as you know what you can and can't touch it's usually no big deal but we also pull the meters pretty often.

@pgood7266 3 жыл бұрын

Nothing wrong with using a regular Klein flathead if you know what you’re doing, I’m in industrial aswell and all we use is regular screwdrivers

@hjooy 3 жыл бұрын

@@pgood7266Why do you NOT use insulated screwdrivers?

@MarkLawry 3 жыл бұрын

Not once, but twice, the cover falls on you. scared me both times.

@ucnhtmenow1 2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad I was a bit more careful and therefore not weary of working on live circuits, it made it a but easier and faster to troubleshoot and trace circuits. When working on the panel itself, I just take my time and, double and triple check everything and work a bit slower. I don't want to Jynx myself so I won't say more.. Safe workings my friends. A kid I worked with back in the day, very careless, was leaning against the panel with his shoulder while screwing terminals and all of a sudden he drops to one knee. He said it bit him good and his whole arm and right side of his body went numb for like 10 secs. Needless to say, he went home that day. That was early on in my electrical days so it made me always make sure not to be careless..

@Johnnybytheway 3 жыл бұрын

Good content, thanks. Old stuff can be a pain. I still have a 1/4" nut driver taped up to change old ITE 277V breakers live. Can't shut the lighting panels down. PITA

@cipher1167 3 жыл бұрын

I hate and love working on live panels. Hate knowing I could die if it arcs. Love the rush.

@enjay8950 3 жыл бұрын

fuck yeah get that rush, its the hit you been missing get it in ya veins son

@dawsonharris5498 3 жыл бұрын

I feel like with a name like Electrician U, when talking about arc flash gloves you'd mention dropping some baby powder and leak testing them before using them.

@Big_AlMC 3 жыл бұрын

And to not store them fingers down.... or wearing an ARC rated long sleeve....balaclava...so much. I get that its his own home but hes doing this as an educational video and missing a lot.

@garbo8962 3 жыл бұрын

Have worn Cal 8 12 40 & 50 and never.used bany powder. Perfer the thin white glove liners. We would get issued a 10 pak of them. As soon as they got dirty throw them out.

@robodrone4004 3 жыл бұрын

The last class I was in said not to use baby powder. Said it reacts with the rubber. There is a special glove powder to use though.

@qasion Жыл бұрын

My Zinsco panel is inside my condo so not exposed to the elements, been working fine for the last 13 years. Thinking about changing the breakers like you did here.

@austinblanco6057 3 жыл бұрын

Had to do the exact same thing on my panel on my house built in 69’. One phase on the bus bar of my 100 amp main breaker was damaged from arcing. I just filled it down a bit to make a better contact between the breaker and bus bar, and now waiting to get a new 200 amp service panel installed. Those old breakers are a pain in the ass to replace and will do damage to your bus bars.

@thesynergy2 3 жыл бұрын

I'm shocked you didn't have insulated screwdrivers and an arc-flash rated long sleeve shirt.

@WardCo 3 жыл бұрын

People who don't like you showing this stuff and/or cussing are pearl-clutching fools. Great work.

@zack9912000 3 жыл бұрын

main reason is a lot of clueless people try doing it and kill themselves or burn their homes down. Why is home insurance so high, because of piss poor DIYers winging it. We professionals see the damage daily from KZfaq experts who tried to save a buck claiming the pros are over rated. A week or less later they destroy their equipment or burn their homes down.

@WardCo 3 жыл бұрын

I understand your point, but I also don't believe in magic words or forbidden knowledge (though you'd be right to assert that KZfaq often provides INCOMPLETE knowledge). You also don't hear about all the projects that proceed without incident, which I suspect outnumber disasters by orders of magnitude.

@enriquemarino7250 2 жыл бұрын

Good video, what I do in these situations of the main breaker and because the bus it's no energized I clean it with sandpaper and apply a little nolox and very easy to install the new main.

@JMGeranimo Жыл бұрын

I have this panel with a faulty 200 main breaker. Also have a Connecticut new breaker . Thanks for the video.

@jamiesykes1115 3 жыл бұрын

Hey Dustin, thanks for your videos. I live in the UK- electricians here use mostly VDE insulated tools as standard. It seems this isn't common practice in north American - just from what i've seen on youtube. Do you know why this is?

@robertrocheville7769 3 жыл бұрын

Could the main breaker have been shifted down?

@Incognito1786 4 ай бұрын

Talking about touching hot wires reminded me of a time when I was working on a casino slot drop team and reached in the BV housing to pull a can out, and two of the wires for the lighting had ripped insulation. I touched both of those wires and lost feeling in my whole arm for a few hours. Told the techs about it and they re-wrapped it in electrical tape. Two days later, it happened again to my coworker and they re-re-wrapped it in electrical tape. They ended up having to replace the wiring because my coworker went to HR and screamed about how we keep getting the shit shocked out of us on drops. The reason they kept having to re-wrap it in electrical tape was because the wiring was rubbing up against the sharp, sheet metal of the BV housing. Every single time they had to open that machine, the wiring was flexing in a small gap between the light panel and the housing. For anyone wondering, it was a video poker machine, and BV is directly under the light panel on the right. Also for anyone wondering, BV location doesn't matter. You're NOT going to be able to get the inner BV door open. We had keys, and sometimes we couldn't get them open.

@lh98 2 жыл бұрын

I’m a mastur-bater and a master diy’er and I’ve installed breakers without shutting the bus bar off at all, I just make sure the new breaker is off then install it then connect the wires THEN turn the breaker on. Never had an issue. Although I don’t recommend just anyone do it. You need to be sure or accept your fate... be smart and don’t just follow what others do, if you aren’t 100% sure of what you’re doing stay away from it. Anytime you pull that face panel off there’s lots of risk involved, tons of wires, live bus etc One careless move with your hand, screwdriver, or pliers and you’ll never forget it. Be smart

@huskyneusify 3 жыл бұрын

Wondering why (you may have explained but in that case I missed it) why you're not using an isolated screwdriver ? And as is the case in other countries, are you supposed to tighten the screws on the terminals to a specific torque ?

@hjooy 3 жыл бұрын

Of course he needs to pay attention to the torque. This determines the resistance in the connection and with that fire hazard.

@osmith5086 2 жыл бұрын

@@hjooy but he never mentioned nor demonstrated torquing the terminals

@duanelohr1869 3 жыл бұрын

As far as the meter, you, as a homeowner, can ask your utility company to kill power to the house. With no risk.

@lostbird25 3 ай бұрын

The reason for the charred bussing is because Zinsco used cheap *insert large asian country* metal for their panels and breakers. The metal “U” style teeth in the breaker to bussbar would get hot and and expand and start to pull away from the buss, losing partial contact. This would cause a smaller surface contact area and/or arcing. This could cause either nuisance tripping because the breaker would think the load is too much for its rating; or alot of the times, it would overheat the internals and actually prevent them from tripping at a true fault. Lots of reported cases of Zinscos being way overloaded, but not tripping and causing fires in equipment or panels. Also an FYI, Connecticut Electric-while corporate is in America-the breakers are made in *large asian county known for putting out cheap faulty products* and, in mine and others experience, have failed right out of the box, failed after a week, and/or also failed to trip in a fault.

@mackfisher4487 3 жыл бұрын

Well done instructional video, but as you are watching your P's and Q's I thought that you would bring up torquing the breakers loan screws. Though I must say after you do a few thousand you're probably pretty dam sure it's tight, it would be fun to see how close you would be to the manufacturer's torque standards. (Behind closed doors one might say do as I say not as I do.)

@BAFiusRUS 3 жыл бұрын

I’m electrician in NJ. I alway suggest customer just to get new panel. You can up the service at the same time, go from 100A to 150 or 200. For the same price that takes to order this breakers just to find out that busbar is done and you have to replace panel anyway.

@MrMaxyield 3 жыл бұрын

Not worth the liability... I won't work on FPE or zinsco...

@alec4672 3 жыл бұрын

He said it's just a temporary solution for a few weeks. Not every customer is finiacially able to replace there service right away he's probably loaning out those new breakers on credit. He literally said in the video he'd be back to replace the service entirely.

@andrewalexander9492 3 жыл бұрын

@@alec4672 It's his own panel on his own house.

@alec4672 3 жыл бұрын

@@andrewalexander9492 welp there ya go I think my point still stands. It's been sketchy ordering building supplies in all trades right now. Those old breakers were probably keeping him up at night 😂 also good video content. Either way it's still just a temporary solution for a few weeks he said until he can get a proper panel.

@andrewalexander9492 3 жыл бұрын

@@alec4672 Yeah, I wasn't saying your were wrong, jut that a guy might take a stop-gap measure on his own stuff that would be out of line for a client.