Residential electrical wiring, known as non-metallic sheathed cable, or often referred to by the brand name, Romex, is installed in a continuous run of wire from the service panel’s circuit breaker to the receptacles and switches that make up the given circuit. Traditionally, wire splices or circuit connections are made in a receptacle, switch, or junction box and remain accessible behind a face plate that is fastened to the box.
Conversely, the wiring in factory built home is often connected once the modules are permanently placed on site using cable interconnect devices. These homes that are fabricated and shipped in discreet sections, or modules, rely on quick, non-destructive methods to connect all of the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems. A plug-like apparatus – a cable interconnect device - installed at each end of the electrical wire that exits from a module provides a solution to electrical connectivity among house sections.
In remodeling or rewiring situations, it may be simpler and more beneficial to use such devices to connect circuits, rather than having to find a location and install a junction box.
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Cable interconnect devices save considerable labor (wiring and finish material repair) time in the field installation of modular homes. Similar efficiencies could be expected in some remodeling situations.
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Cable interconnection devices are usually installed where an electrical box isn’t feasible or would be unsightly. Access to the wire ends is necessary. Whether used in new construction or remodeling, prior approval for interconnector use should be obtained from the building inspector. An interconnection device is limited to use with wire sizes of 12 and 14 gauge on 15 and 20 amp circuits, maximum. Each interconnector device has the capacity for one wire.
Sheathed wire interconnects cost four times as much as the box and plate cover that they might replace. The connections are usually selected for a specialized situation in which a box would be undesirable.
Not Applicable
The International Residential Code (IRC) 2003 covers electrical wire splicing in section E3306.10 and requires conductors to be spliced or joined with splicing devices listed for the purpose. In addition, the IRC references the National Electrical Code (NEC). The NEC permits usage of concealed cable interconnections in manufactured and modular homes, in specific applications.
Not Applicable
Non-metallic wire interconnections should require approximately the same time to install as an electrical box and cover.
Warranties of up to twenty-five years are offered.
Interconnect devices for non-metallic sheathed wire are an alternative to an electrical box and plate cover. The devices have been widely used in factory built housing to easily make electrical crossover connections between sections that might not be accessible after the house is completely assembled. They could be useful in providing more flexibility in relocating or repairing wiring in new or existing homes. The devices slide and clip together the wires while insulating them. The need to find a location and install a junction box becomes unnecessary.
Because wire interconnect devices are not common to residential construction, it is advisable to seek prior approval for use from the plan reviewer and building inspector. Inspectors may want to see the connection before it is concealed.
Some interconnectors are approved for use with solid conductor cable, only. Work with distributors and electricians familiar with interconnection devices and their application.
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