Proper Wire Joints And How We Do Them

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Proper Wire Joints And How We Do Them
Today, we’re showing you the correct way we make a wire joint in residential electrical work. This guide follows the proper procedure used by certified electricians.

Why Proper Wire Connections Matter

Making poor wire joints can lead to:

  • Loose connections
  • Arcing
  • Overheating or hot spots
  • Fire hazards
  • Failed inspections

Let’s walk through what not to do—and then show you the right way.

The Wrong Way: Don’t Just “Cap and Go”

Some online sources suggest that we can:

  1. Hold three wires together (without twisting)
  2. Push a wire nut (marette) on
  3. Call it a day

Why this is wrong:

  • It creates a loose connection
  • The wires can pull apart easily
  • There’s poor electrical contact, which can result in arcing or fire

The Right Way: Certified Wire Joint Method

Here’s the step-by-step process we use:

🧰 What We Need:

  • Linesman pliers
  • Wire strippers
  • Wire nuts (marettes)

🔧 Steps:

  1. Strip the wires to equal length (about ¾ inch)
  2. Hold all three wires together using your thumb and index finger
  3. Twist them clockwise using linesman pliers
  4. Snip the tip at an angle
    • This helps the wire nut catch and bite properly
  5. Install the wire nut
    • Twist it on tightly by hand
    • Then use pliers to give it a final clockwise twist for a secure hold

You now have a solid, reliable connection that won’t come apart—even if tugged.

Pigtails: Connecting to a Receptacle

When continuing a circuit (say, to the next outlet), we use a pigtail:

  • One wire in
  • One wire out
  • One short wire (pigtail) to connect to the device terminal

How to hook the pigtail to a receptacle:

  1. Strip about ½ inch (1 cm) from the end
  2. Use wire strippers, not pliers, for a clean cut
  3. Hook the wire clockwise
  4. Secure it under the terminal screw
    • As the screw tightens, it pulls the hook tighter, ensuring a strong bond

This technique ensures excellent electrical contact and no callbacks or issues later.

Why We Do It This Way

We follow this method because:

  • It’s safe
  • It’s code-compliant
  • It prevents nuisance issues
  • It eliminates liability and warranty concerns

When working with electricity, there’s no room for shortcuts.

Final Thoughts

That’s how to make a proper electrical wire joint, and how to correctly connect a pigtail to a receptacle.

📌 Remember:
Just because something is shown online doesn’t mean it’s safe or approved. Always follow certified practices—or hire a licensed electrician.

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