Maya Ellison
Plastic junction boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes, due to their non-conductive nature. However, it is still necessary to bring the equipment-grounding conductor into the enclosure to ground devices such as switches and receptacles. This can be done by connecting the bare or green wire directly to the green screw on the device. If you are unable to replace the plastic box with a metal one, you can use a small hose clamp to clamp the bare end of a grounding jumper to the outside of the armour on the end of each MC coming into the box.
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes
- Metal boxes are grounded using a metal grounding screw
- In the UK, you don't need to ground a plastic junction box
- Grounding wires are connected to the screw, making the box part of the grounding system
- An alternative method is to use a ground clip
Plastic boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes
Plastic boxes, on the other hand, are made of non-conductive materials, meaning they cannot be grounded in the same way. Instead, it is necessary to bring the equipment-grounding conductor into the enclosure to ground devices such as switches and receptacles. The bare or green wire is connected directly to the green screw on the device. If another cable exits the box to feed downstream devices, a pigtail should be connected to the equipment-grounding conductors in both cables to attach to the grounding screw.
It is important to note that while plastic boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes, they can still be used safely. Plastic-sheathed cable, also called NM (for "non-metallic"), is always used with plastic boxes. This type of cable uses an internal copper wire for grounding, so it does not require a metal box for proper grounding. Additionally, plastic boxes are often preferred by do-it-yourselfers because they are easy to work with and inexpensive.
However, there are some situations where a metal box is necessary. For example, metal-sheathed cable, also called BX cable, must contact a metal box for proper grounding. Metal boxes are also stronger and provide a more secure attachment to the stud, making them ideal for mounting heavy items like ceiling fans or light fixtures. In unfinished basements or mudrooms where there may not be a complete wall system, metal boxes can be attached directly to a masonry wall, providing the necessary support for exposed wires and conduits.
In summary, while plastic boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes due to their non-conductive nature, they can still be used safely in certain situations. However, it is important to choose the correct type of box for proper grounding, especially when using metal-sheathed wiring, as failing to do so can be highly dangerous.
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Metal boxes are grounded using a metal grounding screw
Grounding a metal junction box is an important step in any electrical installation, and it can be achieved through various methods, including the use of a metal grounding screw. This is a convenient and reliable method of grounding a metal box and making it part of the grounding system.
To use this method, a green grounding screw is inserted into the threaded hole in the back of the metal box or enclosure. This screw serves as a connection point for the equipment-grounding wires, ensuring that the box is effectively grounded. The process involves a few critical steps: preparing the box, installing the screw, and connecting the wires.
Firstly, it is essential to ensure that the metal junction box is accessible and ready for grounding. This may involve removing any covers or obstructions that could hinder access to the back of the box, where the grounding screw will be inserted. It is also important to gather the necessary tools and materials, including the appropriate size and type of grounding screw.
Once the box is prepared, the next step is to install the metal grounding screw. The screw should be made of a conductive metal, and it is typically coloured green to indicate its specific function in the electrical system. The screw is inserted into the designated threaded hole, ensuring a secure and tight fit. This provides a reliable contact point for the grounding wires.
Finally, the equipment-grounding wires are connected to the screw. These wires are an integral part of the grounding system, ensuring that any electrical faults or surges are safely directed away from sensitive components and devices. By connecting the wires to the grounding screw, the metal junction box becomes a part of this protective system.
While using a metal grounding screw is a common and effective method, it is worth noting that there are alternative methods for grounding metal boxes, such as using a ground clip. However, the grounding screw method is widely regarded as a straightforward and dependable approach to achieving a proper ground connection in electrical installations involving metal junction boxes.
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In the UK, you don't need to ground a plastic junction box
Metal junction boxes always need to be grounded, whether you are using NM (non-metallic) plastic-sheathed cable or metallic cable. This is because metal-sheathed wiring depends on bonding with the metal electrical box for grounding. If you use metal-sheathed wiring with plastic electrical boxes without other grounding measures, you will sever that ground, which is highly dangerous.
NM cables, on the other hand, are not self-grounding. To ground an NM cable, you must attach the cable's internal bare copper wire to a screw located inside the metal junction box.
Plastic electrical boxes are easier for home remodelers to work with. They are also the least expensive option and come with pre-attached nails for nailing into studs. However, plastic boxes tend to become misshapen when stressed and can crack when struck.
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Grounding wires are connected to the screw, making the box part of the grounding system
Plastic junction boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes. Metal boxes are conductive, so a ground connection can be established with them. However, plastic is non-conductive, so it is not possible to ground a plastic box.
Despite this, it is still necessary to bring the equipment-grounding conductor into the plastic box enclosure to ground devices such as switches and receptacles. To do this, connect the bare or green wire directly to the green screw on the device. If another cable exits the box to feed downstream devices, you must take an additional step. Connect a pigtail to the equipment-grounding conductors in both cables to attach to the grounding screw.
Using a metal grounding screw is a convenient and reliable method of grounding a metal box. If you are using a metal box, insert a green grounding screw into the threaded hole in the back of the box or enclosure. The equipment-grounding wires then connect to the screw, making the metal box part of the grounding system.
An alternative method is to use a ground clip, which is an approved piece of hardware that slides onto the edge of a metal box. This anchors the equipment-grounding conductor tightly against the metal.
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An alternative method is to use a ground clip
An alternative method to grounding a plastic junction box is to use a ground clip. This method is useful when the fixture doesn't have a ground screw. In this case, the ground from the fixture can be connected directly to the ground from the Romex wiring.
If there is no exposed metal in the junction box, it does not need to be grounded as there is no risk of the box becoming energized. However, if there is a ground wire, it can be left in the box for future use.
It is important to note that the local electrical code should be consulted before installing a plastic junction box, especially in areas like the attic. Metal boxes are generally stronger and offer better protection against damage compared to plastic boxes. They are also essential when using metal-sheathed wiring to ensure proper grounding.
However, plastic boxes have their advantages too. They are easier for DIY enthusiasts to work with and are less expensive. They also come with pre-attached nails for easy installation.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic boxes cannot be grounded in the same way as metal boxes because they are non-conductive. However, it is still necessary to bring the equipment-grounding conductor into the enclosure to ground devices such as switches and receptacles.
Connect the bare or green wire directly to the green screw on the device. If another cable exits the box to feed downstream devices, connect a pigtail to the equipment-grounding conductors in both cables to attach to the grounding screw.
Using a metal grounding screw is a convenient and reliable method of grounding a metal box. Insert a green grounding screw into the threaded hole in the back of the box. The equipment-grounding wires then connect to the screw, making the metal box part of the grounding system.
