Electrical Switch Box Types

The shape of an electrical box can help you identify its purpose.

Electrical switch box types.

Carlon 2 gang blue plastic old work standard switch outlet wall electrical box. The wall switch is one of the most common and important electrical devices in the home. Square boxes offer more room for wiring connections than rectangular boxes. 203 744 7445 the rac535 x cube adapter 5cui steel sidecar electrical box space extender retails for 1 79 and a rac519 2 12 d nmc gang type electrical switch steel box retails for 2 45.

So for the beginning do it yourself electrician it can be helpful to break down types of electrical boxes into two areas. Square boxes with mounting holes for two devices are also called double gang boxes. Square boxes are used as junction boxes for splicing multiple wires or cables and for single or double devices. Certain switches offer special features that can make your home more convenient and energy efficient.

It houses a single electrical switch or outlet and comes in metal or nonmetallic units. Choose a weatherproof box for outdoor applications. The world of electrical boxes can feel overwhelming in terms of sizes materials and purposes. A junction box is not a special type of box but rather a term used to describe any standard electrical box used to enclose wire splices.

The standard box used for junctions is a 4 inch square box which offers plenty of space for making wire connections with multiple wires or cables but other type of boxes can be also used for this application. A standard rectangular shape is the most common electrical box. Old work boxes it is a simplification but simplifying electrical boxes in this manner goes a long way toward helping you understand all types of boxes. Materials electrical boxes are made of various materials most commonly steel pvc fiberglass or cast aluminum.

Ideal for indoor use with all types of conduit and metal clad cable steel is also suitable for nonmetallic sheathed nm cable with appropriate fittings. New work boxes vs. There are a range of different light switches to choose from based on the functionality you re looking for. There are several different types of switches and although they may look the same when they are installed with their faceplates intact the various switches look and function differently on the inside.

Rectangular boxes are used for installing most wall switches and outlets receptacles where only a single device is used. Danbury top m electric supply 29 federal road danbury ct 06810 tel. Types of light switches single pole switches are the most common electrical light switches you ll find in a home. The material you should use is largely a matter of environment.