By Dave Rongey Summary:
Electrical junction box splices can be made safely when you understand the method. This example will show you step by step how to make a outlet box wire splice.
After the splice is made be sure to place a cover plate on the box.
Outlet Box Wire Splice
Step 1: Always identify the electrical circuit and make sure it is off.
IMPORTANT:
Always be sure the outlet circuit is off. Use a voltage tester to verify the power is off before proceeding.
Install the outlet box in an accessible area.
Bring the wires into the box and allow enough length to make your splice.
Step 2: Using a good pair of wire strippers and pliers.
After stripping back the insulation about 3/4", twist the bare wire in a clock-wise direction. Trim off the end of the wires evenly.
Step 3: Use approved wire connectors that are the right size for the splice.
Select the right size wire connector, otherwise known as a "wire nut". Notice the depth of the connector, your twisted wire sets should not be longer than the depth of the wire connector internal area. Screw the splice connector onto the twisted pair in a clock-wise motion until the connector is good and snug. The bare wire should be all the way into the wire connectors. Bare wire should not be seen. If bare wire is seen, back off the wire nut and trim more of the twisted wire sets and reinstall the connector.
Step 4: Fold the spliced wires carefully back into the junction box.
Fold the wire sets carefully into the junction box.
Step 5: Always install a blank cover onto the junction box.
Place a blank cover on the junction box and you're all done! You have now made a legal and accessible splice. Turn on the circuit when all the work is completed and completely checked and verified.
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The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!
The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
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It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
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Splicing Electrical Wires
Electrical Project Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced.
Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, Crimping Tool.
Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level of experience, ability to work with tools for splicing electrical wires and the available access to the project area. Electrical Safety:
Identify the electrical circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials:
Electrical parts and materials for splicing wires typically include splice connectors, a splice enclosure. The parts should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and the NEC National Electrical Codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections:
Repairing electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes with a permit and be inspected.
This is a testing tool that is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
This is great to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring, is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect, Very handy and easy to use.
A wire stripping tool used to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.
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