Ep 2. EV Chargers, China Cabinet Repair

In Ask This Old House season 21 episode 2, viewers are introduced to two unique projects that take homeowners into unusual territory when it comes to repairs in and around the home. The first project involves Lucy in Denver, Colorado, who is interested in installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger in her garage. She has recently purchased a plug-in hybrid, and she wants to make sure she can keep it charged properly. However, she's not sure how to do it herself and wants advice on the best type of charger to get, how to properly install it, and how safe it is to do so. Tommy Silva takes on this challenge, providing Lucy with valuable insights into the installation process and what to look for when choosing a charger.

The second project featured on this episode is a fascinating one that involves China cabinet repair for a customer in Pennsylvania. Matt Blashaw is tasked with this project, and it's not a simple one. The homeowner has a lovely antique china cabinet that has seen better days, and he wants to restore it to its former glory. However, it's not just a matter of removing scratches and making it look pretty again. This cabinet has been around for generations, and it carries with it a lot of memories and sentimental value. Matt must delicately restore the cabinet without causing any further damage or detracting from its unique character.

The episode begins with Tommy Silva arriving at Lucy's home in Denver. She shows him where she wants the EV charger installed, and he decides that it would be best placed on the side of the garage. Tommy explains that there are several types of EV chargers on the market, and that some are easier to install than others. He also provides some great tips on how to properly install the charger, including what kind of wiring is needed, how to ground it properly, and what type of breaker is required. Tommy emphasizes that safety is always an important consideration, especially when dealing with electricity.

After Tommy completes the EV charger installation, the program shifts to Pennsylvania, where Matt Blashaw begins his project. He starts by assessing the cabinet and planning his restoration strategy. He notices that the cabinet has some small cracks and the doors are not sitting properly, so he decides to remove them and make some adjustments. Matt also discovers that the cabinet has been damaged in the past, and he must find a way to repair it without actually removing any of the original wood. This requires delicacy and precision work, but he's confident he can get the job done.

As the show continues, viewers get to see Tommy and Matt tackling their respective projects with determination and skill. Tommy focuses on making sure the EV charger is properly wired and secured, while Matt uses a variety of woodworking tools and techniques to restore the antique cabinet. Along the way, the viewer also gets to learn about the history of EV chargers, how they work, and how they differ from regular household outlets. In addition, they learn about the importance of preserving antique furniture and how to repair it properly.

Finally, the show wraps up with Tommy and Matt demonstrating the finished projects. Lucy is thrilled with her new EV charger and excited that she can now keep her plug-in hybrid charged and ready to go. The homeowner in Pennsylvania is equally delighted with his restored china cabinet, which looks even better than it did when it was brand new. Overall, viewers get to see two unique projects that showcase the best of what Ask This Old House has to offer: expert advice, great tips and tricks, and a deep respect for the value of preserving both the past and the future.