Can you use a light fixture as a junction box?

For example, if you have a light fixture that doesn't need a box for mounting, but the wiring connections are not protected by some kind of cover, then you can't use the fixture without a junction box. Or, if a fixture meets all of the criteria of a box but lacks a cable clamp, don't use it without a box.

What can be used as a junction box?

Junction box enclosures can be made either of metal (usually aluminum or stainless steel) or plastic (usually polycarbonate or ABS). Choosing between plastic and metallic junction boxes is one of the first big decision points when specifying an enclosure type for a commercial application.

Do I have to have a junction box?

You'll need a junction box if you can't make the connections inside an existing electrical box. You should install the box with the opening facing out from the wall so all the wires inside are accessible. Like any electrical box, it should be installed so that the edge of the opening is flush with the wall.

Can you splice wires without a junction box?

Short answer: NO. Long answer: All splices must be in a junction box, and the junction box must be accessible.

Does a junction box have to be attached to a stud?

They don't need to be fastened to a stud, so you can install them anywhere.

How to Choose an Electrical Box | Ask This Old House

Can I hide a junction box behind drywall?

Junction box covers must remain accessible; they cannot be covered with drywall or other surface material.

Is it OK to splice Romex?

It must be noted that while it is possible to splice different types of Romex wire—12/2 to 12/3, for instance—you should never splice together wires of a different gauge. Wire gauge is determined by the amount of amperage the wire is expected to carry.

Do all electrical splices have to be in a box?

Electrical splices can never be left on their own in a wall or ceiling cavity. Instead, all splices must be contained within an approved junction box or fixture electrical box.

Can you install a light fixture without a junction box?

For example, if you have a light fixture that doesn't need a box for mounting, but the wiring connections are not protected by some kind of cover, then you can't use the fixture without a junction box. Or, if a fixture meets all of the criteria of a box but lacks a cable clamp, don't use it without a box.

What is code for electrical junction box?

Securing Cables

Article 334.30 states that cables coming out of the junction boxes should be secured within 12 inches of the box in all boxes equipped with cable clamps. These cable clamps are not to be removed. 314.17(C) states that cables must be secured to the receptacle box.

Can an outlet be used as a junction box?

Yes. For code-compliance purposes: Each 14 gauge wire is 2 cubic inches, each 12 gauge 2.25. All of the ground wires count as a largest wire.

Does a junction box have to be metal?

A plastic electrical box might be a better choice for your application if: You're using non-metallic sheathed wire (often called Romex wire). Romex wire and plastic junction boxes are frequently used together, but metal enclosures may be acceptable as well (depending on the project).

Is it legal to splice Romex in a wall?

The only condition is the splice has to be fished, meaning you cannot legally use this splicing device where there is no drywall yet installed because the NEC expects you in this case to use a proper junction/outlet box, so the splice can later be accessed.

Can you put a junction box inside a wall?

Electrical wires run behind the walls and through the ceiling of your home, meeting at junction boxes. It is a safety hazard to completely bury a junction box in a wall.

Can I use electrical tape to cover exposed wire?

Don't use Electrical Tape to Seal up Loose Wire Ends

Although it may be tempting to keep wrapping new tape around any exposed wires, don't let the damage get too out of hand. This means anything past a minor abrasion or cut.

How many junction boxes can you have on one circuit?

There are no limits on the number of junction boxes (without devices) in any particular circuit.

Can I bury a junction box?

You can't bury a junction box - it has to remain accessible. The usual thing to use is a handhole - like a box where the lid is flush with the ground. You could get a handhole as small as 12" x 12".

Can you put a junction box in the attic?

Yes, junction boxes in attics, suspended ceilings and crawl spaces are legal. Basically, the rule is that ALL wire connections must be accessible. In other words, you can't cut a hole in a wall or ceiling and bury a junction box by covering it with drywall, paneling, tile, or whatever.

Where should a junction box be placed?

Junction boxes are often located on walls near compressors, pumps or large pieces of equipment. In addition, junction boxes are often used on the roof of commercial buildings to provide access to circuits associated with air conditioning units and ventilation fans.

Does a ceiling fan need a junction box?

The National Electric Code requires that all fans 35 pounds and over must be supported with an outlet box or outlet box system that is listed for ceiling fan support. The manufacturer must have marked the outlet box system to indicate that it is acceptable for ceiling fan installations.

How do I wire a receptacle from a light outlet but keep it hot when light is off?

In this case, you must change the cable from the switch to the light outlet from a 2-wire to a 3-wire cable. As you can see, connecting a receptacle to the light would see the receptacle only hot when the light switch is on.