---
title: How do I wire this thing? Essency's EXR.
description: It looks a bit different since we don't use wire nuts, but it's easy!  If something seems difficult or it's not going in easily, you may be doing it wrong.
---

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# How do I wire this thing? Essency's EXR.

## It looks a bit different because we don't use wire nuts, but it's easy! If something seems difficult or it's not going in easily, you may be doing it wrong.

- Before you begin 
    - For Pros Only
    - Follow all Codes
    - Read the Manual before attempting
    - Cut the Power
    - If it's your first time: 
          - Step away
          - Give us a call
          - Get trained
- After you open the connection box 
    - Do you see the 2 open levers? - Use those ones
- Wire  
    - Copper Only
    - Solid core is okay, but stranded or fine-stranded is better
    - The more strands the merrier, for better contact and flexibility
    - Use clean, 10 AWG wire only 
          - Lighter gauge wire = not enough current
          - Heavier gauge = won't fit! 
                  - Keep a close eye on dryer cord on a retrofit - the jacket is typically to thick to fit into the connector properly.
    - Strip to 1/2"
- Connecting 
    - Remove bracket if necessary - gives you a bit more space & makes it easier to thread a strain relief nut, connect ground, etc...
    - No excess wire or wire nuts inside the box!  
          - Do not attempt to join existing wire to new wire inside the heater's junction box.  If existing wire is too short or the wrong gauge/type, it's best to run a new line.  If you must use wire nuts, it must be done externally and according to local & national codes.
    - Use strain relief whenever possible, especially if not in conduit
    - Wire must go in straight, with no tension - tense wire may pop out.
    - Push all the way to the back of the connector - you'll feel it bottom out.    
          - While holding wire to back of connector, push lever down.  If it won't close, double-check that you have straight, clean, 10 AWG copper, stripped to 1/2", with no tension.

- - After you've successfully closed the levers, give 'em a gentle tug to ensure good connection
    - Incorrect wire or connection may cause no/bad conductivity, or overheating
    - Don't forget ground wire
    - Should look something like this below (factory-connected wiring removed for illustration) 
          - Note the following:  
                  - Strain Relief
                  - No extra length of wire or wire nuts inside box
                  - No exposed copper
                  - Levers fully closed  
                    ![](https://learn.essencyhome.com/hubfs/IMG_2975%20(1)-jpg.jpeg)

- Look good?  
    - If so, close it up & flip the switch.
    - Here's a slide from our training sessions for your reference...
    
  ![](https://learn.essencyhome.com/hubfs/image-png.png) 
    - And a video from Wago themselves that might provide some additional insight...
      
      <iframe height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n8gLG6c-iKc?feature=oembed" style="position: absolute; top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; border: none;" width="200" allowfullscreen data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n8gLG6c-iKc?feature=oembed" data-mce-style="position: absolute; top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; border: none;" data-mce-fragment="1"></iframe>
- Don't forget to register & connect the unit.  Call us with any questions!

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