Step-by-Step
5. A Practical Guide to Wire Connections
Alright, you’ve got your tools, you’ve identified the wires, now it’s time to make the connection. Remember, safety first! Always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before working on any electrical wiring.
Start by stripping the insulation from the ends of the wires you’re connecting. Expose about inch to inch of bare wire. Be careful not to nick or damage the copper conductor.
Next, twist the wires together using wire connectors, make sure you have enough insulation covered after connected. Twist them tightly to ensure a solid electrical connection. If you’re using wire nuts, twist them on until they are snug and secure. If you’re using Wago connectors, simply insert the wires into the appropriate slots.
Give the connection a gentle tug to make sure the wires are firmly held in place. Then, carefully tuck the wires back into the electrical box, making sure they don’t come into contact with any other wires or metal surfaces. Secure the device (outlet, switch, etc.) back into the box and replace the cover plate.
Finally, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker and test the device to make sure it’s working properly. If anything seems amiss, turn the power back off and double-check your connections.