Junction Question?
 

Hi;
Does code allow me to run the following configuration:

Breaker > Outlet 1 + Pigtail in outlet box > outlet 2 + Pigtail in outlet box > Junction Box > Outlet 3, Outlet 4 (both from junction box)

For some reason, I suspect this is not allowed, but going to junction box first, then daisy-chain outlets is OK.

I can do either way, might end up with a junction box in a closet (which I don't like, but is probably OK as long as it's accessible)

Thanks for your input

FW

It is perfectly acceptable as long as the junction box is TOTALLY ACCESSABLE.

By totally accessible, I assume that means in a closet, etc as long as there is no permanent fixture/structure blocking access to it.

FW

Totally accessible means you can open it without smashing drywall or demolishing something to get to it.

OK. So, you're saying that my feed can come first into an outlet box, have a pigtail with wires coming off for the outlet,. and continue on to a regular (4" square) junction box?

I think that the reasoning behind my question concerning the order of boxes comes from when we used to use the receptacle itself to make a daisy-chain splice.
While I understand this method is still allowed, I don't use it. I prefer to splice with wirenuts in the outlet box, and have only the two wires + ground going to the receptacle.

FW

Why wouldn't you continue from outlet to outlet without the jbox?

You're right. It's kind of silly. I was just thinking that having a J-box in the attic would save 9' of wire for the outlets. Rethinking the concept, I will just go from outlet to outlet.
If I put a J-box in the attic, it needs to be on a main wall or a roof rafter, and that's going to add length to the wire run anyway.

FW

Every point of connecton is a potential point of failure. The less joints the better. I prefer to make the connections on the receptacles. In Canada we count wire nuts in box fill.

only time i run to a junction box before distro is when pulling a main trunk a long long distance. for example, from panel in basement to attic is one wire and terminated in a junction box in attic. from this box to room just below attic is then distrobuted.

keep in mind that this attic junction must have >= 1meter space above box and be accessible.

i do this just incase there is a problem with the wiring in the room in the future... then i can just remove the one wire and don't have to remove the trunk which is a pain.

but.. every junction box = possible failure point as previous poster said. so you must weigh your options carefully.

Knucklez

Thanks for the heads up about 1m space above the J-box. I was thinking I could put one on the roof rafter, but I guess not. It would have to go on an outside wall.
I am going to just go from outlet to outlet instead.

FW

In the US there is no requirment to keep the area clear for 1 meter. The j-box can be mounted to the top of the rafters if you choose.