11 types of electric box and how to choose？

Distribution boxes are an important part of a home's electrical system and are used to wrap wire connections to prevent short circuits. But for many DIYer, the variety of boxes is dizzying. There are plastic and metal boxes; "New Works" and "old Works" boxes; Round, square and octagonal boxes; And boxes with rated loads for ceiling fans and heavy light fixtures. All of the most commonly used junction boxes for home wiring projects are available at home centers and large hardware stores, and knowing the difference is important to buying the right junction box for each job. Here, we break down the different types of electrical boxes you need to know in order to safely install the right model in your home.

Best smart switches for high-tech homes.

 01 Total 11 

Metal and plastic electrical boxes 

Best for: Metal sheathed cables or metal conduits (metal boxes), Romex or non-metal cables (plastic boxes) Most electrical boxes are either metal or plastic: metal boxes are usually made of steel, while plastic boxes are PVC or fiberglass. Weatherproof metal boxes for outdoor use are usually made of aluminum. If you are using a metal conduit to connect the wiring to an electrical box, you will need a metal box - either to secure the conduit or to ground the system using the conduit and the metal box itself. Metal boxes are more durable, fireproof and safe. Plastic boxes are usually cheaper and include built-in wire clamps. If you are using a non-metal cable, such as type NM-B (non-metal sheathed cable), then you can use a plastic box or a metal box, as long as the cable is secured to the box using a suitable cable clamp. Modern wiring systems that use NM-B cables often include a ground wire inside the cable, so the box is not part of the grounding system (however, the metal box must be connected to the system systematically, often using short wires called pigtails).

02 Total 11

Best for: Single lamp switches and receptacles Standard rectangular boxes, also known as "single link" or "single link" boxes, are commonly used for single lamp switches and receptacles. They are usually about 2 x 4 inches in size and vary in depth from 1 1/2 inches to 3 1/2 inches. Some forms are composable - with detachable sides that can be removed, so the boxes can be joined together to form larger boxes for placing two, three or more devices side by side. Standard rectangular boxes come in various types of "new" and "old" designs, and they can be metal or non-metal (metal is more durable). Some types have built-in cable clamps for securing NM cables. The cost of these boxes varies, but most of the standard options are very affordable.