When is code going to change on backstabbing

[B Bassett]

I hate that code still allows to backstabbing of switches and receptacles. I pull out burnt receptacles, and cracked switches on a weekly basis. plus all the calls I get for receptacles not working because the wires have backed out . Don’t get me wrong it provides me with good paying work, but to it ends up being a safety issue in the end. To me it doesn’t take that much longer to use the screws which is the best. I just believe that this is unfair to the homeowners in the end , having to pay for repairs that could have been prevented.

This is not a code issue, it is a listing issue, ie; U L

 

[shockmate]

Okay, My turn. I would love to make the argument of safety as a reason for requiring bathrooms be on their own circuit. Using the hair dryer and teenage girl scenario, everyone seems to wait to the last minute to get ready to go somewhere, including wifey. Now, compound that with teenaged friends. If you can't dry your hair in another bathroom without tripping the breaker, extension cords are drug in through the doorway so they can use the mirror. Now, you have created a situation where an unprotected extension cord must be used. This is not an uncommon occurrence that is directly attributable to the fact that multiple bathrooms are all on one circuit. I agree, can't wire a house for all possible scenarios, however, this issue can easily be resolved. I personally put all bathrooms on separate circuits.

 

[shockmate]

Back on topic. The only connection failure I ever had was many years ago and it was when I used a back-stabbed switch. First and last time I ever used it. I do use Wago "Lever" nuts all the time without issue. Can't bring myself to ever trust back-stabs or push connectors though.

 

[kwired]

Okay, My turn. I would love to make the argument of safety as a reason for requiring bathrooms be on their own circuit. Using the hair dryer and teenage girl scenario, everyone seems to wait to the last minute to get ready to go somewhere, including wifey. Now, compound that with teenaged friends. If you can't dry your hair in another bathroom without tripping the breaker, extension cords are drug in through the doorway so they can use the mirror. Now, you have created a situation where an unprotected extension cord must be used. This is not an uncommon occurrence that is directly attributable to the fact that multiple bathrooms are all on one circuit. I agree, can't wire a house for all possible scenarios, however, this issue can easily be resolved. I personally put all bathrooms on separate circuits.

Nothing prohibits or requires you from running more than one circuit to a bathroom either - if you have a dual basin vanity, it possibly worth consideration to have a separate circuit for each basin.

 

[kwired]

Back on topic. The only connection failure I ever had was many years ago and it was when I used a back-stabbed switch. First and last time I ever used it. I do use Wago "Lever" nuts all the time without issue. Can't bring myself to ever trust back-stabs or push connectors though.

most the back stab connection failures I have seen were items that had been in place for years. Most of them from a time when devices still accepted 12 AWG in the back stab ports.

Seen screw terminal failures also that had been in place for years, maybe not as many as backstab failures but it does happen.

 

[Fred B]

Nothing prohibits or requires you from running more than one circuit to a bathroom either - if you have a dual basin vanity, it possibly worth consideration to have a separate circuit for each basin.

But I think if I'm correct these circuit(s) would still be limited to the bathroom(s)

 

[kwired]

But I think if I'm correct these circuit(s) would still be limited to the bathroom(s)

Look at definition of bathroom in art 100.

It does not say "room" it says "area", so maybe partition walls within said "area" still can mean you have a bathroom? I think you need to do some your own interpretations at times (or at least the AHJ does).

Example, a "mud room" at a farm house. Typically a back entry area to take off dirty shoes clothes, etc. that also contains the laundry. Common to have a sink in the main area that may be used for various purposes, including laundry, hand washing, or other personal hygiene reasons. Adjoining that room may be a small separate "room" or "closet" containing a tub/shower or a toilet, or both.

Is it a bathroom or not?

Many might run a 20 amp receptacle circuit to near the sink regardless, with no other outlets on it.