What is this?

[grepin7]

This (link to pic) is in a closet next to the electrical panel. It is warm to the touch. Can someone tell me what it is and if it should be warm?

Thanks!
RS

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Looks like a doorbell transformer and yes they do get warm

 

[Hv&Lv]

I agree. Doorbell transformer. Kinda crappy way to mount it though..

 

[Chamuit]

I agree too. Doorbell transformer mounted on a single gang plate that has a 1/2" KO in the middle.

 

[junkhound]

Unless 1st year apprentice vs. teacher, surprised anyone in the trade would have to ask about a doorbell xfmr.

OTOH, in my university engineering classes, there were folks who had never before held a pair of diagonal cutters or needle nose pliers in their hand, let alone a soldering iron. Was totally amazed that some EE students had never wired anything.

 

[Knuckle Dragger]

Seen it done many times where the panel is located in a finished room/ hallway in a condo or apartment.
I guess it beats installing it inside the CB panel like I have seen many times as well.

 

[drcampbell]

It might also be the transformer for a boiler or furnace. (the old style without a pump or fan)

 

[electricman2]

I would like to know where the secondary leads go. Appears they go back into the box to ???

 

[LarryFine]

I would like to know where the secondary leads go. Appears they go back into the box to ???

Seeing two reds, my guess is that the two whites are joined; one cable to the button and one to the chime.

I agree that they should not be in the box; I'm guessing/hoping they're not.