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View Full Version : Can I Splice Cut 110V Wires?


C5GUY
Dec 10, 2007, 11:17 PM
My contractor cut through one of my master bedroom 110V wires that runs the bedroom plug outlets. He actually cut it in 2 different places. He wants to install a "circuit box" to rewire this damage. I hate to see a box in this high visibility area and wonder why I cannot simply add a piece of wire by wire splices to repair this fubar?

KISS
Dec 10, 2007, 11:42 PM
Can't. Junction boxes need to be accessible and splices need to be made in junction boxes.

When you do what you want to do there is nothing to mechanically secure the ends and you can't inspect the connection. Besides the splice can generate heat and it needs to be contained in a heat resistant enclosure. This paragraph is logic, not something from the code book.

He can also fish wires and patch drywall. He's taking the easy way out.

C5GUY
Dec 10, 2007, 11:48 PM
Can't. Junction boxes need to be accessible and splices need to be made in junction boxes.

When you do what you want to do there is nothing to mechanically secure the ends and you can't inspect the connection. Besides the splice can generate heat and it needs to be contained in a heat resistant enclosure. This paragraph is logic, not something from the code book.

He can also fish wires and patch drywall. He's taking the easy way out.
Thanks! This was what I figured but wanted to make sure.:)

labman
Dec 11, 2007, 06:12 AM
Not just logic, but code does require the splices to be in an assessable box. One alternative to new wire or a sore thumb box would be to put the cover of the box on the other side of the wall. The box could go in the attic with a new wire running down to the outlet.

Cobraguy
Dec 11, 2007, 08:45 AM
Sorry... but that contractor would be hiring a Sparky to come fish a brand new circuit for me. Especially with two breaks. Tell him to suck it up and bite the bullet.

Which brings up another issue. Since it's a bedroom, would the installation of the new circuit require AFCI's to meet code? Or could he get away without needing that?