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Plastic Electrical Box versus Metal Electrical
Box
Which Electrical Box is Right for Your
Residential Wiring Project
By Mark J. Donovan
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When it comes to doing minor
residential work a lot of do it yourselfers find themselves contemplating the
plastic electrical box versus metal electrical box decision. The simple answer
is that for most residential applications the plastic electrical box is the
better choice. For one, a plastic electrical box is less expensive. Secondly, a
plastic electrical box, unlike a metal electrical box, does not need to be
grounded. Grounding an electrical box takes more time, and thus why most
electrical contractors try to use non-metallic electrical boxes when they can.
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This said, the metal electrical box
has been around for decades, and was the only option until the advent of the
non-metallic or plastic electrical box. In addition, there are some applications
where the metal electrical box is the required choice. For one, electrical metal
boxes have traditionally been used and even required in commercial applications.
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Second, they are also frequently used
in outdoor applications. Metal electrical boxes are also required when the
electrical box is to be buried behind an exterior wall as in possibly a junction
box application.
Another advantage of plastic
electrical boxes versus metal electrical boxes is the fact that plastic
electrical boxes commonly have mounting nails integrated into them. This makes
the installation of a plastic electrical box easier than a metal one. In
addition, the break-out tabs for inserting the Romex cables are usually easier
to pop out than with metal electrical boxes, plus there is less risk of getting
cut.
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Though a plastic electrical box,
versus a metal electrical box, does not need to be grounded itself, the ground
wires associated with the various Romex cables coming into the box, along with
the outlet or switch receptacle, need to be properly tied off together.
Connecting the various ground wires together and tying them to the electrical
outlet receptacle or switch prevents the risk of short circuits that could lead
to fire and life threatening shock. Make sure to always use the right grounding
clamps when tying grounds together and fastening them to the electrical outlet
receptacles and switches.
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Photo By Mark Donovan |
No matter the decision between a plastic electrical box and a metal electrical
box, it is important to purchase electrical boxes that are rated for the
particular number of Romex cables that are to be fed into it. If an electrical
box is overstuffed with cables broken wires and short circuits could occur. All
electrical boxes are marked with the rating capacity stenciled on the side of
them. In addition, always make sure to buy electrical boxes that meet local and
national electrical codes.
If you still have questions on buying the right electrical box ask a store
manager at the home improvement center for assistance.
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