No wiring splices are allowed outside of an approved enclosure, according to the National Electrical Code (NEC). Any conventional outlet, switch box or light fixture box can be used as an acceptable enclosure. However, a junction box is commonly used when a wiring splice is required at other points along the circuit.
Electrical Junction box is a conventional electrical box that contains the connection (splice) of two or more circuit cables and is securely fastened to the house framing or similar structure. Cable clamps (or conduit connectors, if the circuit incorporates conduit) attach the wires to the box, and the box must have a removable cover to make a full enclosure. Junction box covers must be accessible; do not use drywall or other surface material to cover them.
A junction box is most typically employe when an electrical circuit branches off in two or more directions from a site where an outlet or fixture is not practicable. It’s also a frequent solution for extending an electrical circuit.
Electrical cables are protect by junction boxes, providing shock protection and preventing sparks from igniting flammable materials nearby. You’ll need to strip all of the wires in the trunk of their ends before installing one. To complete the electrical circuit, tie the same-colored cables together and secure them with wire nuts. Take the essential precautions to guarantee that your home has energy for a long time.
Selecting the Correct Electrical Junction Box
Make thing to see before purchasing an Electrical Junction box from Electrical Junction box Manufacturers is to buy a box which is suitable for your installation. For example, a weatherproof junction box with gaskets is require to avoid moisture ingress in outdoor situations.
Also, make sure the junction box can handle the number of wire connections you’ll be making. The smallest 2-by-4-by-1-1/2-inch-deep box, for example, can splice only two cables (four or five conducting wires), but the largest 4-by-4-by-2-1/8-inch-deep boxes may splice up to six cables (up to 18 individual conducting wires). Many DIYers chose the largest container that is practical for the application for ease of installation.
Before You Get Start
Switch off the proper circuit breaker in your home’s service panel to turn off the power to the circuit you’ll be working on (circuit breaker box). Use a non-contact voltage tester to test all of the wires you’ll be dealing with. The test should show that none of the cables have any voltage.
Getting Rid of a Knockout (Metal Box Only).
Remove a knockout on the box for each cable that will enter it if you’re using a metal box. Break out each cutie (metal disc) with a screwdriver or hammer, then twist off the metal knockout disc with pliers
Install the Electrical Junction Box
To place the new junction box, separate the circuit wires at the old splice and loosen the cables as needed. Screws driven through factory-made holes in the back or side of the box, as applicable, anchor the box to the framing (or other support structure).
Setup of Clamps for each cable
As needed, secure each cable with a cable clamp. Internal cable clamps are include in standard plastic Electrical Junction box Manufacturers, which do not have knockouts.
If your metal box does not have internal clamps, attach a locknut-type clamp for each cable. Using the ring-shaped nut, fasten the clamp within the box by threading the threaded end through a knockout hole. Using pliers, tighten the nut.
Cables Security with Electrical Junction Box
Feed the cords into the box through the clamps. Beyond the clamp, the cable sheathing (outer jacket) should reach ¼ to ½ inch, and the individual conducting wires should extend around 6 inches. Trim the wires as needed and use wire strippers to remove ¾ inch of insulation from the ends of each wire.
Tighten the clamps’ screws to secure the cables, cautious not to overtighten and damage the wires.
Connect the Dots
Follow the manufacturer’s directions when connecting the wires with appropriate wire connectors.
First, connect the bare copper (or green insulated) ground wires. If the box is metal, link the ground wire connection with a pigtail—a 6-inch piece of the same type of ground wire—then connect the free end of the pigtail to the box’s ground screw.
Connect the white (neutral) and black (hot) wires using a wire nut or other suitable connection for each wire pair. If there are any red (hot) wires, connect them all. By gently tugging on each wire, ensure that it is secure.
Why Use a Electrical Junction Box Instead Of A Different Option?
Wiring problems with hot tubs, water heaters, and various gadgets can appear to be fairly difficult. In these situations, a simple junction box can be a savior.
Wire splicing is an alternative to employing an Electrical Junction box Manufacturers. It violates the wire code. The reason for this is that if done incorrectly, it can result in a fire. Not only that, but it has the potential to destroy your home. Your insurance will not cover any losses caused by such wiring. It is because such work is entirely unlawful.
- To make a connection behind the wall, use wire nuts and wire.
- After that, close the border and push the cables behind it.
Another reason why you shouldn’t do it is that it’s illegal. That instance, suppose you are planning to sell your home shortly. The new owner may be unaware of the wiring, resulting in issues.
Conclusion
Fold the wires into the box with care. Place the Electrical Junction box on top of the box and secure it with two screws. The cover must be a solid “blank” with no perforations, according to the code. Switch on the circuit breaker to restore electricity to the circuit. Use the methods wisely to effectively install an electrical junction box.
