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Thursday, March 19, 2020

Question:

Good Day Code Lads, here is a question that has bothered me for quite some time. Does the Code prohibit back wiring of switches and receptacles in a wiring system. I was always told that you can’t back wire devices and that the wires have to be wrapped around the screws on the device. I appreciate the response or opinion you have.

Charles Timmons

A

Answer:

Hello Charles, thanks for your question. The NEC does not restrict devices such as switches and receptacles from being back-wired. Many of these products are listed (certified) and evaluated for terminating the conductors this way. Some devices provide both options, back wiring and screw terminals. The key here is to follow the manufacturer's requirements in the installation instructions as required in Section 110.3(B). As an aside, Section 110.14 of the NEC generally addresses these types of connections.

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CHARLIE TROUT: Charles M. Trout, better known as Charlie, was a nationally known NEC® expert and author. He served on several NEC® technical committees and is past chairman of CMP-12. In 2006 Charlie was awarded the prestigious Coggeshall Award for outstanding contributions to the electrical contracting industry, codes and standards development, and technical training. Even though Charlie passed away in October of 2015, his work continues in spirit. NECA continues to maintain this question forum for its many subscribers in memory and recognition of all his significant contributions to making the NEC what it is today.

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