Search results

Hello all, I am in the market for a new clamp meter. I'd like a model with inrush. I am not a pro, and am hoping to not spend a fortune to get a meter with inrush. Please note that inrush is not the same thing as a "max" setting...

Hi all, I am not a pro and may not use correct terminology. Feel free to correct me. I need to install a new 200-amp service drop to my residence before I can connect my workshop's subpanel to the home. The reason for this order of operations is because my existing 1960s load center is out of...

I recently picked up all three sizes of the Gearwrench quadbox wrenches on clearance from Home Depot. These 3 wrenches cover all sizes from 8mm through 19mm. I'd like a small case of some sort that I can pack these in so I can grab and go when needed. Any suggestions? And yes, this is...

Really great one-deal on 3 different 18V tools at Lowes. They might sell out before the end of the day. Each tool is $79 which is a substantial discount from full price. There is a multi-tool, sander, and vacuum. All three of these tools are very highly reviewed. I already own the vacuum and...

Hi all, I've done a bit of hand detailing on my cars in the past, but nothing serious. All I really want to do is wash, clay bar, and wax. Waxing by hand is somewhat laborious, so I'd like to get a power tool or two to make this a bit easier so that I'm more likely to do it more regularly. My...

My local Costco has these cordless work lights on clearance: https://www.costco.com/feit-electric-led-rechargeable-2000-lumen-work-light%2C-2-pack.product.100763962.html Regular price is $50, but on clearance for $30 at my store. That's just $15 per light. I don't know how accurate the lumen...

Only a couple of hours left for this MLK day sale, but I thought I'd mention it! DirectToolsOutlet has a variety of Ridgid branded OMT blades on sale for up to 80% off. Today only, there is an MLK day promo code that gets you free shipping: DTFOMLKSALE Here is a link that will show you the...

TODAY ONLY (12/16/2021) There are a handful of Ryobi and Ridgid tools at around 50% off at Direct Tools. In reality the "full price" at Direct Tools is often lower than the new price at Home Depot. For example, the Ryobi pressure washer extension pole is $169 at HD but the full price is listed...

Just curious what the preferred brand/model of receptacles for the workshop is by the experts here. I have been using Legrand TR5262 Commercial TR receptacles for my home renovation and they seem to be very high quality (and priced accordingly). For the workshop, I am considering using Legrand...

Hi all, I don't own (nor do I recall ever using) any appliance or tool that had a 5-20R plug for use with 120V, 20A receptacles. I am aware of only a single type of tool that uses a 120V, 20A plug: high-end dust extractors / vacuums. I am curious what other modern workshop tools or appliances...

This is my biggest electrical project to date and first time installing a sub panel. Big thanks to many people on the forum that have helped me with my beginner questions on installing this sub panel in my small workshop (especially Terry D and wyliesdiesels). I'm finally almost finished. I'm...

I've finally roughed in my small (12x14) workshop and am ready to hook up the sub panel. Currently I have 4 circuits. As I've posted previously, I ran a 10/2 UF-B wire several years ago before I knew I would ultimately build a workshop. This will provide 30A at 110V and is plenty of power for...

Hi all, I acquired a nice 1-gallon compressor a while back on deep clearance but have not yet opened the box. Since then I have purchased cordless nailers: a framing nailer, 16ga finish nailer, 18ga brad nailer, and pin nailer. So as far as pneumatic nailers go, I don't need a compressor. I...

My small workshop's center roof beam is supported by a stud pack / column made up of three 2x4s. Is it OK to drill holes for romex through this load-bearing triple stud pack / column? I know I can make holes for romex in the other exterior wall studs. But the stud pack acts as a load path for...

I'm ready to run wire for tube fixtures in my small 12x14 workshop. The shop has a sloped / shed roof with an exposed triple-2x12 beam in the center. I was originally planning on running a row of tube fixtures along the bottom of the center beam. But after using battery-operated LED lights for...

Hi all, I saw a youtube video by a "pro" sparky and he emphasized the need for a PVC expansion fitting at the service entrance for underground runs (I can't find the video link now). These types of conduit runs are typically very short - often just a couple of feet. When I looked up Carlon's...

Hi all, I've done quite a bit of electrical work by myself now and am pretty careful about doing things right. But I just had - maybe? - a close call with a very overheated dimmer switch. I'll explain what happened below. This weekend I did an electrical makeover to the living room. I added...

Hi all, I've attached a drawing of my proposed electrical service for my workshop. A few notes: - This is for 110V service to a 12x14 detached workshop - Only one leg of the sub panel will be energized due to the 110V service - The 10/2 UF-B is already run and burried 2 feet deep. This was...

I have a 5-year-old heat pump and have never cleaned either the indoor or outdoor coils. I had a look at both coils today to see how dirty they appear. The outdoor coil looks as though there is nothing to clean from it. The indoor "A" style coil also looks very clean and I don't see any obvious...

Big news? Lowes set to launch new power tool brand to beat Milwaukee & Dewault: FLEX So today it was announced that Lowes is launching a new power tool line that intends to beat - not compete - the big boys like Milwaukee and Dewalt. You probably already know the name: FLEX tools - the German...