Toolbox: Soldering Tools

Figure A Figure B Figure C

If you’re hooking up an entertainment or security system around the house, you may need a soldering iron or a soldering gun. A soldering iron puts out a lot of heat, stays hot all the time and it is inexpensive (figure A).

You may want to consider a soldering gun for more intricate projects. It has a built-in light and the tip is only hot when you pull the trigger (figure B).

Often times when soldering wires together you could use a third hand, and that's when you'll want to have some clamps handy. First twist the wires together and then heat and solder together using a solder rated for electrical use.

Tin or prime the tip of your soldering iron or gun by lightly touching a bit of solder to the tip. This will allow the tip to heat more evenly. Once the soldering tool's ready, heat the wires so they're good and hot. Not too much heat, you don't want to burn, scorch or cause the insulation to melt. Once the wires are hot, add just enough solder to completely cover the wires (figure C).

Also in this Episode

Help Around the House : Episode ARH-309
•	Repair Nesting Tables
•	Wallpaper Patch
•	Canvas Roof for Outdoor Playhouse
•	Toolbox: Soldering Tools