Device box in ceiling

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tom baker

tom baker

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One of my students asked me and I didn't know, is it allowed to use a device box in the ceiling as a junction box, as typically they are used in the wall for well, a device?
 
The only restrictions that I can think of would be for the support of equipment. If it is just a splice box with a blank cover, I don't see any code issue. Of course there is always the 314.16 box fill issue.
 
tom baker said:
One of my students asked me and I didn't know, is it allowed to use a device box in the ceiling as a junction box, as typically they are used in the wall for well, a device?
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I don't understand why that would even be a question. A box in the ceiling, a receptacle or switch in the ceiling. Why would it not be allowed???
A round box? A 1900 box? sorry, I'm not getting the question.
 
ritelec said:
I don't understand why that would even be a question. A box in the ceiling, a receptacle or switch in the ceiling. Why would it not be allowed???
A round box? A 1900 box? sorry, I'm not getting the question.
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Standard single gang nail on box
 
Only concern I can think of would be box fill, have used them for a slice box (remodel and moving of lighting fixture but not rewire) as they have a smaller footprint for the blank cover, less obtrusive.
 
A device box has 6-32 screws and is intended only for the support of devices. The exception to 314.27(A)(1) permits a device box to support a luminaire or lampholder that weighs 6 pounds or less. The Exception to 314.27(D) permits a device box to support things like smoke detectors.
 
tom baker said:
Back in the day, I may of used a device box to mount a luminare...
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Years ago when I was an apprentice I remember removing a cast iron paddle fan and finding and old work metal switch box supported by mad bars on a wood lath ceiling with 6/32 screws supporting the fan to the box. The home owner told me he installed over 25 years earlier.
Go figure.
I believe that style had an oil bath/ reservoir to keep the bearings lubed.
They may still manufacture them..
 
Knuckle Dragger said:
Years ago when I was an apprentice I remember removing a cast iron paddle fan and finding and old work metal switch box supported by mad bars on a wood lath ceiling with 6/32 screws supporting the fan to the box. The home owner told me he installed over 25 years earlier.
Go figure.
I believe that style had an oil bath/ reservoir to keep the bearings lubed.
They may still manufacture them..
Click to expand...
I think Hunter still makes them, you have to be careful after you fill them to not tilt them. The oil and white carpet doesn’t look good. Don’t ask me how I know! LOL!
 
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