Installing a junction box in any room where a person plans to use electricity is an important step in conducting electricity. Thanks to this design, it is possible to use electrical wiring smoothly and safely. Visually, this is an ordinary box made of plastic or metal, the sides are equipped with holes. Wires depart from the structure, which supply all devices with electricity.
What is a junction box for?
A junction box is a device designed to distribute electrical current evenly to points of the fence, such as switches and sockets. Thanks to this device, it is possible to conditionally divide the electrical network into main directions. The main cable is led to each room, and all switches, sockets and lighting fixtures are already connected to it.
In addition to basic protection against overheating and burning, the device is able to keep wire connections from aggressive environmental factors. The presence of an electrical box prevents dirt, moisture and dust from entering the wiring.
Types of junction boxes
The main difference between the distribution structures is the installation method used. The device can be built into the wall and carefully masked with mortar or installed on the wall surface.
For open wiring
The junction box for exposed wiring must be firmly fixed to the wall surface. This also applies to cable ducts in which electrical wires will be placed. This method of installation is preferable to use in industrial plants, in offices, where the appearance of the premises does not matter. Also, the open method of installation is often used in country houses and dachas, technical rooms.
The main advantage of the method is the ability to quickly and easily access the device, as well as the connection point of electrical circuits.
For hidden wiring
The devices are installed in a certain wall opening at the points of connection of leads and electrical wires. Installation is also possible in free space of partitions. This allows you to install the distribution structure and place the wiring in special cable ducts located in the wall. They are hidden with the help of various building mixtures, for example, plaster. After installation, the appliance door must also be carefully hidden in the wall.
The advantages of a hidden installation method are that all details are securely hidden and do not spoil the appearance of the room. Among the disadvantages is the lack of access to the device. In case of failure, it will be necessary to "spoil" the repair.
Junction box device
According to its purpose, the device case should have a low weight and size, as well as provide high-quality insulation of the wiring connecting points. Junction boxes can be rectangular, square, or round with holes for wiring.
Devices intended for outdoor installation have the following types of wall mounting:
- They can be installed on special tension lines, as well as equipped with special fasteners on a cable.
- The case is equipped with internal holes for a secure fit.
- The presence of external holes.
Switchgears are also divided by material of manufacture and dimensions. Experts recommend giving preference to plastic cases.
Installation rules
The boxes, designed to distribute electricity evenly, are installed approximately 25 cm from the ceiling. If the device will be mounted in a hidden way, the cover should be located on the surface so that, if necessary, it can be easily opened and work can be carried out.
It is also important for junction boxes for hidden wiring to find a suitable place so that the interior design concept in the room is not lost.
Installation
Before installation, it is important to familiarize yourself with all the requirements of the regulatory documentation listed in the PUE manual, as well as the simple recommendations of specialists with extensive experience.
- The switchgear must always be accessible. There are cases when, when installing a suspended or stretch ceiling, its level drops, therefore, the device is out of reach. In emergency or abnormal situations, this can lead to great problems and difficulties.
- If we are talking about an open method of installation, the equipment must be regularly checked: inspect the connections for heating, if necessary, tighten the contacts.
- With a hidden method of installation in the wall, it is required to make a recess for each distribution structure, which corresponds to the shape and size. The depth should be such that the box then does not protrude from the wall, and the closed lid is almost flush with the surface.
- If the cover of the structure is pasted over with wallpaper, it is recommended to remember its location or mark it somehow. Experts also recommend at home to have schematically all box currents and wiring paths. This will allow you not to forget where everything is, and during the next repair you will not accidentally stumble upon the wiring with a drill.
- Outdoor models must be installed on already prepared and decorated walls.
If a high-quality repair has been made in an apartment, house, office, so as not to spoil the appearance, it is recommended to arrange a cover for the design of the room or purchase a box with a decorative cover in advance.
Connection principles
To avoid confusion, each wire has a different color for quick connection. The following color combination is considered the most popular: light green, green - ground, blue - zero, white or yellow color symbolizes the phase. It is important to follow the sequence when connecting the device.
To correctly connect the wires in the junction box, you must first draw up a project. It is required to determine the exact location of the points of electricity intake. Switchgears in accordance with the diagram are installed in the most suitable and convenient places.
