Wired Right, The Copperfield Electric Podcast

By Rene HernandezTechnology

Wired Right, The Copperfield Electric Podcast episodes

November 13Electrical Permits vs Inspections: What’s the Difference
Julian and Nora explain electrical permits vs inspections: when a permit is required, the types of electrical inspections, what inspectors check, and how the process runs in Orange County.
A permit is the city's approval to start electrical work; inspections confirm the finished work meets the electrical code.
Wiring hidden in walls gets a rough inspection before the walls close, then a final inspection after devices and fixtures are in.
ESFI suggests a home electrical inspection once a house is 40 or more years old, and for new owners of previously owned homes.
The 2025 Title 24 edition, which includes the California Electrical Code, took effect January 1, 2026.
As of November 2026, Tustin performs inspection requests received by 3:00 p.m. the next workday, and a permit is valid for 180 days unless work is active.
Copperfield Electric | California license #1094740 | copperfield-electric.com
Blog Link: https://copperfield-electric.com/electrical-permits-vs-inspections-whats-the-difference/
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
8 min
November 10Understanding the Cost to Install Sub Panel in Garage
Julian and Nora walk through subpanel installation cost for a garage, what moves the price, and what to ask for in a quote.
Published guides put a typical garage subpanel at $500 to $2,000; Homewyse's May 2026 national average for a basic install is $924 to $1,119.
Homewyse's estimate leaves out permit and inspection fees.
A Sacramento electrician's guide says electricians usually charge $60 to $150 per hour.
Most garage workshops need a 60 to 100 amp subpanel, based on the tools you run at once.
The California Building Standards Code requires a permit before a structure is altered or improved, according to CSLB.
Copperfield Electric | California license #1094740 | copperfield-electric.com
Blog Link: https://copperfield-electric.com/understanding-the-cost-to-install-sub-panel-in-garage/
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
7 min
October 24Can Any Electrician Install a Tesla Charger in Orange County?
Can any electrician install a Tesla charger in Orange County? Julian and Nora explain who is allowed to do the job under California rules, what Tesla Certified Installer status really means, and what a good electrician checks before the install, using CSLB, DIR and Tesla sources.
Why a C-10 license matters more than a Tesla certificate
How the CSLB handyman exemption works and why permit work is excluded
DIR certification hours for electricians who work for a C-10 contractor
Wall Connector output, 32 amp models and breaker sizing
What Tesla's standard install pricing includes and what adds cost
Five checks before you book an electrician
Copperfield Electric, California license #1094740. Find more guides at copperfield-electric.com.
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
9 min
October 22How to Identify Federal Pacific Electrical Panels
Julian and Nora explain how to identify Federal Pacific electrical panels, what the CPSC and insurers say about Stab-Lok breakers, and when to replace the whole panel.
Look for "Federal Pacific," "FPE," "Stab-Lok," "Federal NOARK" or "Federal Pioneer" on the panel label, and red or orange breaker label strips.
GNY Insurance says to check closely if your home was built between 1950 and 1990.
CPSC's 1983 statement (revised 2011) says its tests confirmed the breakers fail certain UL calibration test requirements, but it closed the case without a safety ruling.
An AmTrust bulletin cites tests done for CPSC in which 51 percent of Stab-Lok breakers failed to trip.
AmTrust recommends replacing the whole panel with UL listed equipment, not just the breakers.
Copperfield Electric | California license #1094740 | copperfield-electric.com
Blog Link: https://copperfield-electric.com/how-to-identify-federal-pacific-electrical-panels/
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
7 min
October 22Do You Need a Permit to Replace Electrical Panel in Orange County?
Julian and Nora explain when you need a permit to replace an electrical panel in Orange County, who issues it, how SCE fits in and what the inspector checks.
Tustin requires electrical permits for replacements and change outs, not just new work; the County lists electrical systems as permit work too.
Each city runs its own building department; homes outside city limits go through OC Development Services and myOCeServices.
Laguna Niguel wants the SCE or SDG&E service order before it issues a panel permit, and SCE usually disconnects and reconnects the same day once the panel passes.
Inspectors check working clearance, grounding, water and gas bonding, one conductor per breaker and labeled circuits under the 2025 California Electrical Code.
Owner-builders become the responsible party of record on the permit, so most homeowners hire a licensed C-10 contractor.
Copperfield Electric | California license #1094740 | copperfield-electric.com
Blog Link: https://copperfield-electric.com/permit-to-replace-electrical-panel-in-orange-county/
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
7 min
October 21Can I Upgrade My Electrical Panel Without Rewiring My House?
Julian and Nora explain when you can upgrade your electrical panel without rewiring your house, which wiring has to be fixed first, and what a 200 amp upgrade costs in 2026.
A panel swap replaces the breaker box, not the cables running to your outlets; sound copper branch circuits can usually stay.
CPSC found pre-1972 aluminum-wired homes 55 times more likely than copper-wired homes to have outlet connections reach fire hazard conditions.
The 2025 California Electrical Code, based on the 2023 NEC, took effect January 1, 2026.
This Old House (updated March 2026) puts a 200 amp panel upgrade at $1,300 to $3,000; Rewiring America cites $2,000 to $4,000.
A utility service or transformer upgrade can push costs to $5,000 to $25,000, per Rewiring America.
Copperfield Electric | California license #1094740 | copperfield-electric.com
Blog Link: https://copperfield-electric.com/can-i-upgrade-my-electrical-panel-without-rewiring-my-house/
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
8 min
October 17How to Wire a Detached Garage the Right Way
Julian and Nora walk through how to wire a detached garage the right way, from the first load list to the final inspection, using 2023 NEC rules that the 2025 California Electrical Code is based on.
A detached garage gets one feeder or one branch circuit, plus a readily accessible disconnect.
A feeder, or a branch circuit over 20 amps, needs a grounding electrode at the garage.
PVC conduit needs 18 inches of cover; direct burial cable needs 24 inches.
Every 125 to 250 volt garage receptacle needs GFCI protection, with at least one receptacle per vehicle bay.
Tustin requires a permit for any electrical work, and a permit expires if work does not begin within 360 days.
Copperfield Electric | California license #1094740 | copperfield-electric.com
Blog Link: https://copperfield-electric.com/how-to-wire-a-detached-garage-the-right-way/
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
7 min
October 15Tesla Charger Installation Cost: How Much to Install One at Home in 2026
Julian and Nora break down Tesla charger installation cost for Orange County homes in 2026: what the install costs, what the charger costs, and what pushes a quote higher.
Copperfield Electric's standard install starts at $499 for homes that meet basic electrical requirements.
Tesla lists the standard Wall Connector at $585 and the Universal Wall Connector at $660.
Installed totals usually run $1,200 to $3,000 when the panel has room; a panel upgrade can push a job to $4,500 to $7,500.
A 60 amp breaker gives the full 48 amps (11.5 kW); smaller breakers charge slower.
The federal 30C charger credit is not allowed for chargers placed in service after June 30, 2026.
Copperfield Electric, California license #1094740. copperfield-electric.com
Blog Link: https://copperfield-electric.com/breaking-down-tesla-charger-installation-costs/
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
7 min
October 09How Much Does a Whole House Generator Cost? An Orange County Guide
How much does a whole house generator cost in Orange County? Julian and Nora break down what drives the price, from generator size to installation, permits, and fuel line work, using national cost data from HomeAdvisor and Bob Vila.
Why online price ranges rarely match your quote
How generator size in kilowatts changes the unit price
What installation, the transfer switch, and fuel line work add
Permit rules in Irvine and across Orange County
What a complete generator quote should include
Whole house versus essential circuits
Copperfield Electric, California license #1094740. Find more guides at copperfield-electric.com.
This episode uses AI-generated host voices.

Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
7 min
October 01Full Home Rewire Guide: 5 Steps to Plan a Safe Electrical Rewiring Project
Planning a full home rewire can feel overwhelming, but following the right sequence makes the project safer and easier to manage. This episode walks through the five major stages of residential electrical rewiring, from the first inspection to the final sign-off.
How electricians assess old and unsafe wiring
Why load calculations and electrical permits matter
How to plan a home rewire room by room
What affects rewiring costs and project timelines
What happens when new wiring, outlets, and switches are installed
Why GFCI protection and properly sized breakers are essential
How the final electrical inspection protects your investment
Learn how proper planning, professional electrical work, and code compliance can help you complete a full home rewire safely while avoiding costly surprises.
Blog Link: Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Full Home Rewire
Thanks for tuning in to Wired Right – Powered by Copperfield Electric.
Serving homeowners across Orange County, we specialize in EV charger installation, panel upgrades, and all things electrical.
🔗 Learn more about our services: Copperfield-Electric.com
📍 Proudly serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and surrounding cities
⚡ Yes You Can – with Copperfield Electric.
Follow us for more tips, stories, and updates from the field.
#EVChargerInstallation #PanelReplacement #CeilingFanInstallation #LightInstallation #OrangeCountyElectrician #ResidentialElectrician #HomeElectrical #ElectricianLife #ElectricalUpgrades #WiredRightPodcast #CopperfieldElectric
23 min

About Wired Right, The Copperfield Electric Podcast

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Welcome to Wired Right, the official podcast of Copperfield Electric, serving Orange County, CA. Join Rene and the Copperfield team as we break down the essentials of modern home…

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Wired Right, The Copperfield Electric Podcast

Wired Right, The Copperfield Electric Podcast episodes

About Wired Right, The Copperfield Electric Podcast