Wired Right, The Copperfield Electric Podcast

Rene Hernandez

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 electrical systems—from EV charger installations and electrical panel upgrades to energy-saving tips, home safety, and smart solutions for today's homeowners. Whether you're a homeowner, EV enthusiast, or just want to understand your home's wiring better, this podcast is for you. New episodes every week—clear, quick, and always wired right.

  1. FEB 19

    Free Estimate to Upgrade Electrical Panel in Orange County: Costs, Warning Signs, and Safety Benefits

    In this episode, we explain why homeowners are requesting a free estimate to upgrade their electrical panel in Orange County and how a breaker panel replacement can improve safety, efficiency, and home value. You’ll learn: Common warning signs that you need an electrical panel upgrade Why panels under 200 amps may not support modern appliances How breaker panel replacement reduces fire risk The typical cost of an electrical service upgrade in Orange County What happens during a professional panel installation Why hiring a licensed electrician in Orange County mattersIf your breakers trip often, lights flicker, or your home struggles with today’s electrical demands, your panel may be outdated. Many Orange County homes built before 1990 were not designed to handle EV chargers, HVAC systems, smart appliances, and high-powered electronics. Upgrading your electrical panel improves safety, ensures code compliance, and gives your home the capacity it needs for future expansion. Most electrical panel upgrades in Orange County range from $3,800 to $5,300, and requesting a free estimate helps you understand your options with no obligation. Whether you’re planning a home upgrade, installing solar, or simply want peace of mind, this episode will help you understand when it’s time for a breaker panel replacement and how to take the next step safely. Blog Link: Free Estimate to Upgrade Electrical Panel in Orange County 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

    20 min
  2. FEB 18

    Do I Need a 15 Amp or 20 Amp Outlet? How to Choose the Right Electrical Outlet Safely

    In this episode, we answer a common wiring question: Do I need a 15 amp or 20 amp outlet? Choosing the right electrical outlet protects your appliances, prevents circuit overloads, and keeps your home or business safe. You’ll learn: The difference between a 15 amp outlet and a 20 amp outlet Which everyday devices work safely on a 15-amp circuit When high-power appliances require a 20-amp outlet How circuit breakers and home wiring affect outlet selection Why matching outlet amperage to your circuit breaker is critical for safety What local electrical codes require for proper outlet installationA 15-amp outlet is standard in most homes and works well for lamps, TVs, computers, and small kitchen appliances. A 20-amp outlet is designed for high-power appliances like air conditioners, microwaves, and power tools that draw more electricity. Installing the wrong outlet on the wrong circuit can lead to overheating, breaker trips, and serious electrical hazards. That’s why it’s important to check your circuit breaker, review your appliance amp ratings, and follow proper electrical codes before making changes. If you’re upgrading appliances, remodeling, or planning new wiring, this episode will help you choose the right outlet safely and confidently. Blog Link: Do I Need a 15 Amp or 20 Amp Outlet? 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

    18 min
  3. FEB 18

    What Runs Your Electric Bill Up the Most? Top Energy Wasters and How to Lower Energy Costs Fast

    In this episode, we break down what runs your electric bill up the most and explain how to lower energy costs without major lifestyle changes. If your electric bill keeps rising, this episode will help you understand where your energy consumption is coming from and what you can do about it. You’ll learn: What appliances use the most electricity in an average home Why heating and cooling systems are the biggest energy consumers How water heater energy use impacts your monthly electric bill Which large appliances drive up energy consumption the fastest Simple energy-saving tips you can apply right away How smart thermostats, Energy Star appliances, and insulation improve energy efficiency When to consider a professional energy evaluation for long-term savingsHeating and cooling systems, water heaters, and large appliances account for most home energy use. The good news? Small adjustments like changing thermostat settings, running full loads, lowering water heater temperature, and switching to LED lighting can reduce electric costs quickly. If you want to take control of rising utility bills and create a more energy-efficient home, this episode gives you clear, practical steps to start saving today. Blog Link: What Runs Your Electric Bill Up the Most? 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

    13 min
  4. FEB 16

    Can You Wire a Tiny Home with Regular House Materials? A Safe and Practical Guide

    Wiring a tiny home with regular house materials is possible, but only with the right planning and a strong focus on safety and electrical code. In this episode, we explain how standard house wiring can work in small spaces and what you need to consider to build a safe, efficient, and inspection-ready electrical system. You’ll learn: Whether standard house materials work for tiny home wiringHow to plan compact home circuits without overloadingWhen to use 120 volt and 240 volt circuits in small spacesHow grid power, solar, and hybrid systems affect wiring choicesCommon tiny home wiring mistakes that lead to safety issuesWhy energy-efficient lighting and smart outlet placement matterHow following the electrical code protects safety and simplifies inspectionsWhether you’re building a DIY tiny home or planning a compact living space, this episode helps you understand how to wire safely, avoid common errors, and make the most of standard electrical materials. Blog Link: Can You Wire a Tiny Home with Regular House Materials? 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

    15 min
  5. FEB 9

    What You Need to Know About Electrical Rough-In for New Construction: A Practical Guide

    In this episode, we break down what electrical rough-in means for new construction and why this early phase is so important for safety, inspections, and long-term performance. You’ll get a clear, practical overview of how wiring is planned and installed before drywall—and how smart decisions at this stage can prevent costly problems later. You’ll learn: What electrical rough-in includes and how it fits into the new construction timelineWhy the rough-in phase is critical for safety, efficiency, and code complianceHow does proper wire gauge, grounding, and box placement support reliable electrical systemsCommon electrical rough-in mistakes that lead to failed inspections and delaysWhat inspectors look for during rough-in inspections and how electricians prepareHow planning for EV chargers, home offices, and smart technology saves money long termWhy working with a licensed electrician improves reliability and code readinessWhether you’re building a new home or managing a construction project, this episode explains how strong planning during the rough-in phase creates safer wiring, smoother inspections, and room for future upgrades. Blog Link: What You Need to Know About Electrical Rough-In for New Construction 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

    15 min
  6. FEB 4

    U.S. EV Fast-Charging Network Surges 30% in 2025: What It Means for EV Drivers and Infrastructure Growth

    The U.S. EV fast-charging network saw record-breaking growth in 2025, expanding by 30% in a single year and adding more than 18,000 new DC fast-charging ports nationwide. This episode breaks down what’s driving the surge and why it matters for electric vehicle adoption, charging reliability, and the future of EV infrastructure. You’ll learn: How the U.S. fast-charging network surpassed 70,000 total DC fast-charging portsWhy public fast-charging usage jumped 30%, reaching 141 million sessions in 2025How ultra-fast 350 kW charging is reducing wait times for EV driversWhy have non-Tesla networks installed over 60% of new fast chargersHow private investment, utilities, and state programs are fueling EV infrastructure growthWhat rising reliability rates mean for everyday EV charging experiencesWhy NACS charging adoption is accelerating across non-Tesla networksWhat does the projected expansion in 2026 signal for long-term electric vehicle adoptionWhether you’re an EV owner, industry professional, or simply tracking the future of transportation, this episode explains how rapid EV fast-charging expansion is shaping a more reliable, competitive, and accessible charging network across the U.S. Blog Link: U.S. EV Fast-Charging Network Surges 30% in 2025 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

    2 min
  7. JAN 30

    How to Maintain Your Emergency Power System Year-Round: Essential Generator Maintenance Tips

    In this episode, we break down how to maintain your emergency power system year-round so your backup power is always ready when outages happen. From routine generator maintenance to professional inspections, you’ll learn practical, easy-to-follow steps that help extend the life of your equipment and prevent unexpected failures. You’ll learn: Why is regular emergency power system maintenance critical for reliable backup powerHow often to test your generator and what to look for during monthly checksWhen to change oil and replace air and fuel filters for peak performanceHow to inspect and maintain the battery for dependable generator startupsWhy is a transfer switch inspection essential during power outagesHow to keep your generator clean to avoid overheating and airflow issuesThe importance of load testing to ensure your system can handle critical appliancesWhen to schedule professional inspections and stay compliant with local codesWhether you rely on backup power for your home or business, this episode helps you avoid costly breakdowns and stay prepared for outages all year long. Blog Link: How to Maintain Your Emergency Power System Year-Round 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

    13 min
  8. JAN 29

    Electrical Wiring Tips for a New Kitchen Remodel: Safety, Power, and Code Compliance

    In this episode, we cover essential electrical wiring tips for a new kitchen remodel and explain how to design a kitchen that’s safe, functional, and built to handle modern electrical demands. From appliance circuits to lighting design, you’ll learn how proper wiring helps prevent overloads, improve safety, and ensure code compliance. You’ll learn: Why planning for an adequate power supply is critical in a kitchen remodelWhen and where are dedicated circuits required for kitchen appliancesHow GFCI outlets protect your kitchen near sinks and countertopsHow to choose the right electrical wiring for high-power and small appliancesThe role of kitchen lighting design in managing electrical loadWhy following electrical codes and local regulations mattersWhen an electrical panel upgrade may be necessary in older homesIf you’re remodeling your kitchen or planning an upgrade, this episode breaks down what homeowners need to know to avoid common electrical mistakes and build a safe, reliable kitchen setup. Blog Link: Electrical Wiring Tips for a New Kitchen Remodel 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

    13 min

About

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 electrical systems—from EV charger installations and electrical panel upgrades to energy-saving tips, home safety, and smart solutions for today's homeowners. Whether you're a homeowner, EV enthusiast, or just want to understand your home's wiring better, this podcast is for you. New episodes every week—clear, quick, and always wired right.