Any property, be it residential, commercial or industrial, is bound to have at least a few electrical boxes. A mounting block electrical can be found wherever electrical wires connect to a device such as breaker boxes. These blocks or boxes are available in a variety of sizes each with their own set of uses. Therefore, it is critical that the correct mounting block is used.

Types of Electrical Mounting Boxes

There are quite a few types of electrical boxes. However, each one of them is designated for a particular purpose. If the proper box is not used, it can cause more damage than just a simple fine for failure to adhere to building regulations. If electrical boxes are not fixed properly, they can easily create electrical hazards. Moreover, they should be made out of rust-proof material and they should be resistant to chemical spilling.

Junction Box

These boxes act as intersections. From this box, electrical wiring branches off in various directions. Conduits are often attached to these boxes. Wiring from the main power source get distributed to various parts of the building or structure through the junction mounting block electrical. These boxes always have their cover screwed shut. They are not meant for any switch or receptacle.

Handy Box

A handy box is designed so as to hold only a single switch or electric outlet. They can generally be found in places which do not require in-wall installation as these boxes are simply mounted on the wall. Some of the places where these are used include utility rooms, basements and workshops. Generally, galvanized metal or PVC is used for creating this type of mounting block electrical.

Square Box

As the name suggests, these boxes have a square shape. They are designed for two outlets. This can include two power outlets, two switches or a combination of the two. They are also constructed from galvanized metal usually. Square boxes are often installed during a new phase of construction. While it is possible to mount them flush, they can also be mounted to studs. Double face plates are used for covering them.

New Work Box

These boxes are installed when the construction phase of the structure has just started. As the frame and walls of the building are created, these boxes are generally attached by means of studs. Of course, they are not attached if the drywall has already ben placed. There are access ports on the top and bottom of these boxes for the electrical wiring. The boxes are generally made from PVC. Additionally, these boxes are only meant for use with nonmetal cables or coaxial cables. The boxes are blue in color.

Old Work Box

This type of mounting block electrical is used then existing structures are being remodeled or restored. A hole is cut into the drywall so that the boxes can be installed. The box itself contains mounting clips which make it easier for it to be placed on to the drywall. They can accept light switches as well as power outlets. Just like new work boxes, these blocks can be made from PVC or other suitable plastic materials. Additionally, they are compatible with coaxial cables and cables that are not made of metal.

Outdoor Box

Also known as outside boxes, this type of mounting block electrical is designed to be waterproof. As the name suggests, they are generally meant for outdoor power outlets. They can be mounted flush with an attached conduit, on a variety of places including concrete foundations, porch supports and crawl spaces. Either heavy duty plastic or metal is used in their construction.

The choice of mounting blocks is very critical. An incorrect selection can lead to a variety of problems such as power outages, collapse of the entire electrical setup of the structure and it can even lead to fires.