The BIGGEST Outlet Wiring Mistakes DIYers Make... and How to Fix Them

In this video, we're going to talk about the biggest outlet wiring mistakes DIYers make, and how to fix them! Honestly... Even seen some pros make these mistakes!

One of the most important things you can do when installing outlets is to make sure you use the correct wiring methods. In this video, we're going to discuss some of the most common outlet wiring mistakes I've seen and how to get the job done the right way. By watching this video, you'll be able to avoid some of the biggest mistakes when installing outlets!

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Top Homeowner produces videos for informational, educational, & entertainment purposes only. Information here is not to be viewed as advice but as an opinion. Viewers should be aware that if they choose to work on their homes, they do so at their own risk. Top Homeowner is not responsible for any damages that may occur to the property of a viewer. Some of the projects, materials, and techniques may not be suitable for all ages or skill levels. It is up to the viewer to decide whether to consult with a professional before working on their home. We make no claims to the safety of the projects, techniques, or resources featured in this video, and we will not be held responsible for the actions viewers may choose to take with the information provided. It is recommended that viewers use common sense and take all necessary safety measures. Codes, regulations, standards, and rules are constantly changing around the world, so it is the viewer's responsibility to ascertain their local requirements before starting any type of work.

[TopHomeowner]

These are a few of the most common mistakes I've seen. Were there any surprises on this list?

[bernsfindsandmore]

Love those Wagos. Have used them to pigtail or correct some crappy wiring that involved someone double wiring a terminal like you showed.

[rrussell]

Good video. I understand why some people would assume that back-stabbing recepteacles could be problematic. It just intuitively looks...wrong. Here is what I have seen in 32 years as a master electrician who has worked on more homes than I could count.
I have seen more 'screw-wrap' wired receptacles burn out the termination than those that were back-stabbed, and I have seen a lot more back-stabbed receptacles in homes. People have a tendacy to either not tighten screws enough, allowing them to loosen even more from wire contraction and expansion over the years, or to overtighten them which causes other problems but to a lessor degree. Back-stabbed wires are held under fixed spring tension, and I have tried to pull the old wire out when replacing older worn out receptacles and usually have to push the release tab to get it out without twisting the wire. Most of the times I have seen back-stabbed receptacles fail, they have had the wire not inserted all the way, or forced with #12 wire which the spring-metal arm is not rated for causing it to over expand, permanently bend, and loose its ability to keep proper spring tension on the conductor like it should. Just what I have seen over many years.
They have been extensively tested by U.L. and other listing labs many times, and the insurance industry also. I believe they work when installed correctly, and like side wrapped or even pressure plate receptacle terminals, can fail...seen all of them fail, usually from poor installation or a defective product. I would say go with what you trust most.

[robertmungenast]

good video, i like the part about boot leg ground not too many people talk about it .

[SOMAnxg]

Re; Bootleg Ground. I haven't done any such connections I have a related question. I've noticed on the Leviton receptacles I've used have the side clamping terminals. Those clamping terminals have two different sides of which wires can be slid into and then clamped down. Such a connection would avoid the potential of the mentioned loose connections. Are there other reasons that a bootleg connection should not be used on those kind of receptacles? Why would the NEC not permit such connections?

[Petesworkshop]

Nice!
The 2 wires to 1 terminal doesn't look right at all.