How to Power Your Workbench

Adding power to your workbench through an NVR switch means safe, convenient electricity for your power tools.
Amazon links to the equipment used in this video...
UK Links:
► NRV Switch: amzn.to/3q6Az2U
► Flex cable 1.5mm: amzn.to/3f2Xlm0
► P Clips: amzn.to/3q27QMI
► 4 way extension lead: amzn.to/3qXT3Cc
► 13 Amp Plug: amzn.to/33cOpI1
► Dewalt 18v Combi Drill: amzn.to/2MiM71A
► Wood Chisels: amzn.to/3eop2G3
US Links:
► NVR Switch: amzn.to/3zzDuV2
► Extension Lead: amzn.to/3G3V9qw
► Dewalt 18v Combi Drill US: amzn.to/3q7uzW7
► Wood Chisels: amzn.to/3AZ2g0w
The Amazon links above are affiliate links. It doesn't cost you anything to click on them but I do earn a small commission if you do. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@dazdaz105]

To say that the chiselled hole would not be seen again it was rather neat. . I’ve seen door hinges and locks chopped out rougher than that ! 👍

[@dg2908]

Thanks for making clear that the point of the fuse is that it melts before the cable does! Those 1mm extension reels seem a bad buy for general use as you can't plug very much into them safely whilst they are rolled up. The fuses all too often just get substituted for 13A too A few safety tips from a British domestic spark of over 10 years: * When you cut off a moulded 13A plug it could be hazardous if left lying around. Even if I'm chucking one in the bin I'll twist/bend the Earth pin to render it impossible to insert into sockets * Check that electrical parts bought from Amazon, eBay etc. are made to the appropriate product standards, particularly if you don't recognise the brand name - often they aren't * 50-60 years ago, domestic accessories such as switches and socket outlets used to be mounted flush into joinery without a back box. If these are found now when undertaking an EICR it's coded as 'potentially dangerous' and the installation will be deemed unsatisfactory

[@davideyres955]

@@millomweb interesting that you don’t like rcd in the consumer unit. I’m guessing nuisance trip is a concern? Up to you but when you consider the rcd should trip in the event of a fault and given that places like the kitchen are full of nicely earthed parts that would conduct a lot of current if you make the circuit. An rcd should cut the current before it stops your heart. Tripping is a pain and can be just the earth leakage of a lot of stuff but having rcbo split that across different circuits and reduces that risk while giving you the additional protection. Hope you never need a rcd though.

[@colinroberts4892]

I live in Oz, moved here from the UK when 17th edition was around. i cringe at some of the household wiring done by tradies here. Sockets less than 20cm from a sink in a bathroom, no socket boxes, loose sockets etc. and all within regs here

[@SmithyScotland]

Wee tip - buy an extension socket with a longer cable to start with. Then just cut the cord as required. That way no need to fit the plug. I've also found it cheaper to buy cable as part of an extension cord than buying the raw cable. Another good video.

[@ianbutler1983]

Yes, I have had the same experience. An extension cord can be much cheaper than buying cable separately.

[@illestofdemall13]

@@Grauenwolf He didn't use any "house wire" from what I can tell. Looks like flexible cord cable which is more or less what extension cords are made from. Building cable is generally flat unless it is more than 2 conductors+ one ground/earth.

[@carlbussmann7559]

I have never missed one of your videos. They are simple and easily understandable as well as sensible. I wish every DIY would watch these.

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you

[@ahn1073]

Do solar generators work on cloudy days?

[@benhandelsman7360]

you need batteries for night time and cloudy days

[@mrporridge2304]

NOTHING more satisfying than a well routed and neatly finished cable track in my opinion, my wife disagrees and calls me boring but she clearly doesn't know what she's talking about!! 😂😂 Great vid again Stuart, never heard of an NVR switch before so thank you! Keep up the good work.

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you Steve

[@LordPhobos6502]

Tripping over power cables can be many things, but 'boring' is not one of them. If someone who does not share your hobby calls your shop boring, it's a compliment!

[@dieselbushcraft1299]

Your comment about the chisel made me smile, each time I’m braying my chisels with a hammer I hear my old woodwork teacher tearing a strip off me 😂.

[@ProperDIY]

I know how you feel - I get it all the time in the KZbin comments!

[@paulrichter3081]

Nice neat job 👍👍 A tip a chippy gave me was always lie your drill down so it can't fall over and damage anything. I noticed yours was wobbling on the bench when you were chiselling.

[@Mstred]

I am so glad I found your channel. I just like to putter around with a few projects because I am old. I have learned so much from your videos. You are so easy to understand and explain things thoroughly it is a pleasure to watch. I also very much like your one sheet of plywood projects. Thank You from across the pond in Tennessee.

[@SparkleanAutos]

Brilliant idea and clear instructions as always! I'm looking forward to the router table now 👍🏼👍🏼

[@andymen51]

Thanks, you’ve alerted me to a real risk, that I’ll now deal with. One idea I’ve heard about but not yet implemented is to have the power cable going up to the ceiling and across to the wall socket. Avoids the trip hazard of trailing leads.

[@paultay23]

Another great video Stuart, and I agree with Paul Smiths views about cable length on the extension cable. Cheers again

[@DjGiluk]

Love the work bench gadgets! I will be building my first work bench in the spring and will be using your video from a few months back. I might opt for a 9mm ply top with thinner 4x2 [34mm by 27mm) glued and screwed to try and bring the costs down, as timber prices are crazy money atm. Hopefully the sturdiness will still be there! Learning so much from you every week Stuart, great channel, great content and great presentation as always. Roll on next Friday! Thank you

[@David-bl1bt]

"I like the excitement of not quite knowing whether if I'm gunna get it right... "😂 That's my philosophy with every job that I do 🤣😂🤣 I put a couple of screws above the power strip to ensure it can't be pulled off the keyhole slots, or you could just tack on a battern from a bit of scrap. The nvr switch should be mounted in an appropriate backbox, if there is arking it could easily cause a fire.

[@JohnCarr43]

Another great video thank you Stuart, really liked your explanation about fusing VS cable size. Possibly a good idea to mount a surface box on the bench leg to avoid any overheating / timber issues.

[@adamlawonphotography5219]

Another really enjoyable video Stuart. I just loved the instruction of fitting the kill switch. I will be doing this to my bench when I remodel and tidy up my workshop in the spring, looking forward to the router table video. Magic stuff!!!

[@DSmith-ix1xf]

Great safety idea! Less hazard more diy success!

[@raydebbiemcdonald3208]

Thanks for that, great timing. Just about to mount a circular saw under a bench and this is perfect for that.

[@stephenpower9572]

Another great video Stuart. Really enjoy all your content. Always clear and easy to follow. As an electrician I would suggest mounting that nvr switch on a suitable plastic enclosure as opposed to inserting into wood due to it combustibility. Insulated crimps could also be an improvement. INot a criticism just an suggestion to improve. Good explanation on what a nvr switch does. Thank you for sharing your great content. keep up the good work and keep them coming.

[@TheRealMozes]

As an electrician aswell, i was just about to mention the same. If you get a small fault that isn't big enough for the fuse to recognise, the wood legg wil burn from the inside out.

[@malcolmpurser686]

Stuart....you failed to mention connecting live in with the A1 terminal...always like your tutorial videos...

[@chrishewlet5471]

I simply can't get enough of Proper DIY. Excellent videos: professional host, and not only proper DIY; proper everything! Love the video production quality. I would like to see what cameras and lighting is used. Excellent!

[@derekgranger8228]

We all know about safety but it is great that someone reminds us aboutd it, doing it for years dose not make you immune to an accident Love the channel

[@kbiggs49]

Another spot-on video thank you.

[@utilitarian]

Nice upgrade to the workshop! That Amazon cut off switch is brilliant!

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks!

[@simondavid4084]

I really appreciate the clarity of your explanations, the quality of the video, the editing and the humor (I think my kids would define them as “dad jokes”, which I guess is why they appeal to me). I really look forward to each new post on your channel. Great stuff.

[@deanwellerassociates]

Couldn't agree more

[@ProperDIY]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@fst1775]

Thank you for sharing! Looks brilliant.

[@admirosmankovic1065]

This is a pretty solid little workbench. While once you figure out how it comes together, it is physically Easy to assemble kzbin.infoUgkxyFZUPFEey-PuqsPMxqaykBhgA1LWxFHh by yourself. But the diagrams explaining the steps are really pretty bad. I could not get the handle pins in all the way despite multiple attempts, so I just used a screw I had on hand for the 2nd handle. I could not get the first pin in further or pull it back out. You are supposed to hammer it in, but I had no leverage and the handle is plastic and I did not want to risk breaking it. I will get a lot of use out of the bench because of the convenient size and height. It does fold up nicely for storage. They even explain how to fold it so you don't get pinched...that is important!

[@bigbunnyprojects10]

Great video as usual Stuart, thank you. Personally I fit rubber plugs to my workshop power tools. Then, if I drop the plug on the concrete floor by accident, less chance of plug cracking. I hope!

[@alexstewart7652]

My preference is to run the cable overhead, thus no trip hazard, or opportunity to get nicks , cuts and bumps in the cable. In the past have used curly cable, so it was above head height when not used. Each to their own.

[@donkey1007]

Top notch tips their Stuart, Looking forward to the next task,

[@billhandymanbill2775]

Very nice step-by-step video! I have 3 exact switches I installed on my 2 table saws and router table that I bought from Amazon. In case the the power goes out and comes back on instantly, you don’t to risk kickback if you are using that tool. I installed each switch in a 4”x4” electrical box and mounted each one at thigh height so I could turn off the switch/power tool with a bump of the leg and without letting on hand go to turn off the switch. This way, I always maintain control with two hands instead of without letting one hand leave the wood. IMPORTANT: you want a MAGNETIC switch that prevents the power from automatically coming back on. There are several switch that “look like” this magnetic switch but they don’t kill the power when it comes back on so be careful when buying the switch. Excellent switch for safety reason and for conveniences.

[@awantamta]

A great job and well executed

[@MartynPS]

Without wanting to be that person, you might want to look at using insulated crimps. That switch is single insulated due to the exposed mains, and a few years of high frequency vibration from the tools could cause one to come off. Lecky tape would also work.

[@alanpervin]

Another nice little project Stuart easy on the ears as usual oh and the brain☺

[@davidharle8794]

Brilliant idea. I will do it tomorrow or when I get the switch anyway!

[@facetelemetry]

Great video lad. I like how you put safety first. I'm building a workshop and I love your tips.

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you

[@ashleymccarthy6232]

Fantastic video as always! Right, now to get a workshop.

[@alanalan1206]

Stuart, nice job done. Thank you.

[@ericpetitclerc5519]

Glad to see the 100K suscribers coming closer. Thank you for this option for powering the workbench with a safety device.

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks 👍

[@1charliechum]

Good to see you have a box of Frexenet in the garage. Keeping stocks up.

[@georgiemae11]

Nice little adage to the workbench, great idea. Nice video

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@flyc3]

Cracking video as always! I have the same router as you in a router table and fitting an NVR switch was the first thing I did. As you say, scrabbling around whilst the old Katsu is running isn’t a good idea. Looking forward to your router table project video! All the best, John.

[@christycullen2585]

Great Video Stuart well explained as usual

[@valborchardt3596]

Thanks Stuart, very good plan that, thanks for sharing that, take care and be safe as always from south africa

[@ProperDIY]

No problem

[@random_life_videos]

Ah ha! So the screw spacing for hanging the powerstrip was messed up 😂🤣 But, another great video mate! Love your style and narratives.

[@Stu1982]

Proper job me ole mucker. Another awesome video, happy new year let’s hope it’s a good one

[@davedunn4285]

I love how you do things like putting wheels on your bench mate , I have just done mine bar one wheel which I will get first opportunity

[@ChrisMurley]

Great video. Just finished my new bench (or so I thought)). Now to power it up with an NVR. 😀

[@ProperDIY]

Nice one!

[@simonhinson9367]

Another job well explained an made to look easy. 👍🏻

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you

[@llapmsp]

Very nice project, well worth doing. Thanks for sharing.

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you

[@simonmiddleton4977]

Great job😃👍 looking forward to the router install into workbench. Cheers

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks 👍

[@williammcilrath9828]

just found your channel I like yor work style keep it coming brother Bill

[@richardphillips3303]

Some great tips there and thanks for the video 🙂

[@ProperDIY]

No problem 👍

[@kylerichards29]

Iv watched every video you have posted and they are great! Look forward to the next vid 👍

[@ProperDIY]

Glad you like them!

[@1955DocBrown]

A very happy new year to you. And long may the videos continue 👍

[@grotekleum]

Excellent stuff.

[@GrumpysWorkshop4]

This is something I've been wanting to do in my small workshop.

[@ProperDIY]

Time to 'Give it a go'!

[@michaelgovers8036]

Hey Stewart, what a wonderful but simple idea, thanks for sharing :)

[@ProperDIY]

You are very welcome

[@rodgerq]

Good video mate, some great tips and things pointed out that could be overlooked. Always handy when it comes to the ziggies

[@granttaylor8179]

Another great video with really useful information. 👍

[@ProperDIY]

Glad you think so!

[@patrickkelly7085]

Great videos thank you, your a modern day Barry Bucknell.

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks. That's been mentioned before - I don't know him - ill have to look him up

[@AccountantDoesDIY]

Really enjoyed this. And I also learnt some new things again too, eg the NVR. I’ve just ordered the same router as yours in your links (whilst I do like dewalt I couldn’t justify the money they wanted for even their cheapest router). It will also be my only latched tool but I may end up with more in future. My main observation however was that I think you deserve to treat yourself Stuart to a new pair of work gloves - those green ones look a little worse for wear!

[@richbuilds_com]

Mount the power strip upside down. That way the cable is coming out of the end that matches the hole it's going through, and your plugs will be upside down so the cable coming out the plugs in those sockets will be facing up and you wont have a bend in the wire going up to the tool on the table.

[@TheGavner1]

Great content really helpful and useful too know

[@lcook0825]

Very nice video. Thanks.

[@twentyonetwos3967]

Brilliant idea!!!

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you! 😊

[@stevelarkin3285]

Anther great video and a very neat job 👍👍👍

[@somewhereelse3813]

Thoroughly enjoyed.......... Again. You're building me a great. Library to refer to as and when I need. Hopefully going to do the outside security the weekend, using your method. 'I ain't doin it until Stuart's shown me how' 😂

[@ProperDIY]

Nice one!

[@somewhereelse3813]

I've done it! Outside security light fully installed, working well and put through wall to internal unused socket. Done completely following you previous video. Thankyou. Sadly I feel like a DIY King right now 😁😁 Wonder how much that saved me! Ha! So chuffed 😁😁

[@ProperDIY]

@@somewhereelse3813 Nice one - well done! Not only cheaper but you didn't have to wait 3 months for someone to come around!

[@somewhereelse3813]

@@ProperDIY thanks Stuart. Genuinely appreciate you

[@williammcilrath9828]

Stuart I see why PROPER DIY is your channel name everything is done correctly and neat good practice BILL

[@csimet]

Great idea to use a switch (NVR or even a regular non-NVR, w/paddle stop - anything that provides easy access to shutoff is a good thing), but I disagree with placing the switch directly into the wood leg. A rated plastic or metal box is best to provide protection from combustable materials (wood in this case) from being exposed to possible sparking. In the US, we are required by NEC to house electrical devices in boxes and never mounted directly into cavities exposed to combustable materials.

[@Tattysnuc]

Happy 2022 Stuart! Great video - looking forward to the benchtop router install and seeing your solution to the raising and lowering of said bit. I would have thought that you would have installed the 4-gang with the earth point down to maximise the length of cable and feed from the plug toward the benchtop & tool. Eagerly anticipating the next installment :)

[@grotekleum]

Good point, never thought of that - now I know!

[@johncolquhoun6416]

Nice job. Possibly the switch mite have been better surface mounted in a back box. Is it not a possible fire hazard recessed into the wood.

[@ElliottHurst]

Nope. Only a fire hazard if the wiring in the switch is poor, which is a problem in itself.

[@ianbutler1983]

If it helps anyone-a NVR is known as a Magnetic Start Switch in the US.

[@richardpawlowski4540]

I find using the key hole slots on the back of the multi-socket do not always ensure that it stays in place no matter how much you adjust the screws tightness. A simple solution is to screw a modesty block against the top edge holds it in place and just requires one screw undone if you need to remove it.

[@ProperDIY]

Yes you can do to really secure it

[@rainerfrantzen3523]

Great Job.

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@AshLDN]

Another great video 👍🏻

[@ProperDIY]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@brucestumbo977]

Thank you!!

[@ProperDIY]

No worries!

[@davidbarton215]

great vid many thanks

[@ProperDIY]

No problem 👍

[@jasonmettam9832]

I’ve just done an order on its and used your code as I spent £60

[@RondenBreems]

Great, I bought the same NVR switch and now I will definitely install it. I was a bit uncertain about the wiring but now all is clear. Great point about the cable capacity. I've got one question.. where do you get the floor cable protector? Great video again. So calm and clear.

[@mrxmry3264]

To be safe, you need the following in addition to that NVR switch: - a fuse or circuit breaker. Should already be there, and it sounds like it is. - a GFCI or RCD. - an AFCI or AFDD. IMHO RCDs and AFDDs are more important in a workshop than they are in a residential environment because the cables are more susceptible to damage which can then lead to arcing (that's where the AFDD comes in) or touching a live wire (that's why you need an RCD). And yes, the cables and switches need to be able to take more current than the fuse or circuit breaker. You seem to know how to do that kind of thing safely. The problem is that too many others don't, and that's when people get hurt.

[@bangelta]

another great video.

[@ProperDIY]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@andyandrion9819]

Looking forward to the router fit to the table. I've been swithering about doing the same for some time now.

[@roberthill3970]

Thanks for these videos Stuart. I am a total newbie when it comes to DIY around the house and I have found the biggest hurdle to be having the initial confidence to say "I can do this", whatever the job may be and at least start to have a go. However having seen your videos and listening to the way you approach things I have tried several jobs now and found I can actually do DIY stuff. I still have all my fingers, the house hasn't fallen over, nothing has blown up...and I can hide away in the garage for hours at a time - jackpot! I really like the way you do things and the way you put it over to people like me...the humour is pretty good too! Thanks for everything and don't stop...I am looking forward to your next vid. By the way, the quality of your filming and editing is excellent, will you be considering a run through your video making setup anytime soon?

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you for your kind words. Well done getting started and I'm glad I helped you along. Like anything, DIY is practice and learning by doing some things wrong however it all starts by getting up and deciding to do something - which is what you've done! Keep going and I hope I can help you along the way.

[@roberthall7732]

Very good 👍

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@fireblaster9961]

I’ve used a pop up tower socket into the surface of my work bench, pretty much the same found in kitchen worktops

[@ProperDIY]

You can do but it makes it difficult to use the whole surface while using a tool - ie cutting down a full sheet of ply.

[@Norfolkonsea]

That left screw mysteriously moved right, it's the twilight zone, do do do do. 😉

[@leandersmith6184]

Nice work, but if you are using a claw hammer with a chisel, use the side of the hammer (with the claw away from your head) giving you more service area to work with. Thanks for sharing.

[@colinroberts4892]

i've got my bench electrified with a power board and my built in tools ( i have a table saw and router fitted into the bench) are controllers by nvr switches. But a great point about having one to control the power board for all the normal plug in tools..... think there's some adaptations coming

[@mungoh]

Couple of comments: First, if you cut off a moulded mains plug then please destroy it. Otherwise a kid could plug it in and get a shock off the bare end. (or please remove the fuse). Second, consider using a new mains plug with a loop to help removing the plug (the plugs for older, arthritic hands). Saves grabbing the sides of a plug to remove it.

[@alanalan1206]

One another thing to mention, when you fit cable with connectors, it is not allowed to twist un-twised wires befor insert it to the crimp connector...

[@derekhealey4743]

Nice job only thing you got wrong was fitting the switch into the timber, should have mounted on a suitable back box, like watching your projects 👍.

[@sidwainhouse]

The resess within the bench for the NVR switch is a fire risk. Should be in an approved enclosure and the blade connectors should be shielded.

[@SpartanMJO12]

Cracking vid

[@WokLover]

'm a recent convert to your channel and really appreciate your videos, which are really informative & entertaining to watch. Please keep it up! Bit confused about your link re the flex though...it goes thru to Amazon ok but it's to a 4-core flex (which as far as I can see you don't use in your project), is not the same manufacturer & is not on a reel (as in the video)? Thanks again.

[@colingraham1065]

A great video and some good safety points but any 4 or 6 way mutiblock is 13a in total not as some people think that each socket is 13a!

[@ProperDIY]

Yes i should have mentiined that. No problem for me - ill only ever be using 1 tool at a time

[@timward5690]

You never fail to produce excellent ideas which you share … cheers Tim

[@LordPhobos6502]

8:20 - Every system has a 'fuse'. Every system. If you engineer it right, it's the fuse itself. If you engineer it wrong... your 'fuse' is the wire. Or a socket. Or something else you don't want exploding. Every system has a weak point of failure; it's best to make sure it's the part that's designed to fail safely 😊

[@FrankWoodPhotography]

As a right handed guy I think I’d have wanted the cables out the way on the left. Great job though.

[@-chris1965]

Happy new year youth

[@ProperDIY]

Same to you

[@dangoesfast]

6:28 watch the screw take a little walk to the right, guess it was more like 160mm 🤣