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View Full Version : Can the junction box on a recessed light fixture be used for different circuits


BRH
May 11, 2009, 10:23 AM
I'm remodelling my kitchen and we have the ceiling open to add/move switches and outlets. We noticed that we have a junction box hidden in the ceiling (an obvious code violation). In order to eliminate the stand alone J-box, can I route the wiring through the J-box that is attached to the side of a recessed light fixture. J-boxes that are attached to recessed light fixtures are considered "code" and can accommodate up to 6 connections. The circuit that I want to run through the recessed light J-box is on a separate circuit (i.e. separate breaker) and is not part of the recessed light circuit. I've read on a previous post that it is OK to have different circuits in a J-box, but I'm not sure if this applies to recessed light J-boxes.

Washington1
May 11, 2009, 11:08 AM
Poor design plan, but you can do it.

If there is no access above the ceiling--once the ceiling is rocked, then j-boxing the wiring in the can is favorable.

If you have access above the ceiling, then can you install a Junction box near the recess can light--instead of using the recess can's junction box?

BRH
May 11, 2009, 11:23 AM
Thanks. I figured it was poor design, but I was hoping it was code.

We have no access above the kitchen. Bedroom floor is above. We have attic nearby, and we moved one of the j-boxes into the attic where it is accessible, this particular j-boxes is not close to the attic, and the only alternatives would be run a new line from the breaker box, or put an exposed j-box in the ceiling.