Need help using plastic outlet boxes

Mi Feller

Have only used metal boxes in the past. Installed several plastic ones this week end in new construction (but not yet wired). Contrary to sales claims, am finding that 14-2 wire does not lock into place and can be easily pulled out. Often the plastic clip breaks off leaving more room than wire fills. Isn't there a code that you have to secure the wire to the box or am I misinformed? I can staple the wire an inch or two from the box if that would put me in compliance. Also is it a violation if the hole is twice the size of the wire? Thanks for any help.

AllanJ

Staple the cable to the stud a few inches before it enters the box. I think the code requirement is 8 inches or less for boxes without cable clamps.

If the wire was stretched over from the other side of the section of wall between the studs (other side of the stud bay), it needs to be looped far enough to touch and be stapled to the same stud the box is attached to.

Don't worry about it if the opening in the plastic box as originally molded is larger than the cable.

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dSilanskas

Code is 12" or less.

Mi Feller

One box was brittle and the opening is now maybe 50% larger than originally molded. Would be a bear to pull this box and reinstall. Hoping inspector will ignore or else recommend a way to seal it w/o having to remove. Thanks for all the help.

dSilanskas

Don't worry about it. Its perfectly legal you don't have to do anything with the holes.

Speedy Petey

For one gang non-metallic boxes without clamps or a way to secure the cable it is within 8".

Gary in WA

If the clamp doesn't work, 8", same as if it had no clamp. "Within 8 in. of boxes without cable clamps or within 12 in. of boxes with cable clamps. Most plastic boxes for two or more switches have built-in cable clamps."
NEC- 314.17CX and 334.30.

Be safe, Gary

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Mi Feller

Preparing to wire several lights at outdoor entrances. Just came across article claiming special waterproofed wire required. Never heard that one before. Had planned to use same 14-2 for lighting as indoors.

Mi Feller

Will be wiring several lights near entrance ways. Just ran across an article claiming special water resistant wire needed. That's a first. What's wrong with using same romex 14-2 for outdoor lights as indoors?

darren

Are these lights attached to the house, if so you can use regular NM wire, if you need to take this wire outside and run it underground you will need to use NMWU(wet rated nm wire)

Mi Feller

Yes, attached directly to house or to attached garage with switches inside these structures. Thanks for the response.

J. V.

Then follow darrens instructions.

Mi Feller

First hands-on today pulling wire. Was careful to staple and bore 1 1/4" from edge of studs. But, in going from stud into a box for a light switch with knock outs at the back the wire briefly passes much closer to the side of building. Do I need to find another box with a center knock out or are you allowed to come closer to the siding when going into the box? THANKS.

brric

What you desribe is allowed. No way around it.

Mi Feller

Thanks again brric. Makes sense. Did my best to stay clear until going into box. Guess the siding people ought to locate light switches along outside walls before proceeding.