–Check local regulations for restrictions and permit requirements before beginning electrical work–
When doing remodeling work it may be necessary to splice wires to relocate circuits or add new devices. A splice is the joining of two or more wires by twisting them together. A plastic connector, called a wire nut, is used to insulate and secure the splice. Use a wire nut size appropriate for the number and gauge of the wires you're using.
Wire splice connections must be housed inside a covered electrical box, known as a junction box. A junction box is usually square and made of metal. When installed, the box must not be concealed inside walls or ceilings so it remains accessible at all times.
According to the NEC there is a limit to the number of conductors allowed inside an electrical box, depending on the gauge you're using and the size of the box. While wires are conductors, they aren't the only ones in an electrical box. Devices like switches and receptacles are also considered conductors, and they add to the total present in the box. All metal parts that qualify as conductors must be added to determine the total you will have in the final installation. Find detailed explanation of how to count conductors here.
A junction box has several holes with removable plugs in the sides and back. Choose holes conveniently located for the cables to be spliced and remove the plugs. Use a clamp collar for each one and loosen the screws to open it. Pull about 8 to ten inches of cable through the clamp and tighten it back down collar around the cable.
Split the sheathing on the cable leaving 1/4in of the plastic sticking out of the clamp. Cut the sheathing to remove it and strip off about 3/4 inch of the plastic insulation from the end of each wire. Avoid nicking or scratching the copper wire while removing the insulation.
Insert a clamp, with wires attached, into the junction box hole and from inside the box, push the included nut over the wires and onto the clamp threads. Turn the nut as far as possible onto the threads and then use a screwdriver and hammer to tap it down until it's tight.
The best way to remove the insulation without nicking the copper is to use a wire stripper. Most strippers have a set of cutters for the most common gauges. Gently twist the strippers back and forth once or twice, and pull the insulation straight off the end.
Hold the wires together so the ends match up and twist them together in a clockwise direction using lineman pliers. Make 2 or three turns to form a solid union.
If the ends of the wires are too far apart, the nut won't go on properly. Be sure the ends match up before twist them together. If necessary, snip off a bit at the tip to get them even before attaching the connector.
Thread the connector clockwise onto the twisted wires, being sure no bare copper is exposed at the bottom. Pull gently on the connector to be sure it's secure. You can wrap electrical tape around the wires and cap for extra security or just push the splices into the back of the box and attach the cover plate.
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