outlet box
Noun: 1. A metal or plastic box designed to house and protect the electrical connections for a power outlet, switch, or light fixture: It is a fixed enclosure mounted within a wall, ceiling, or floor that provides a safe, contained space for connecting electrical wires to a device and secures the device to the building structure.
The term "outlet box" is used specifically in the context of electrical installations and construction. It refers to the physical container, not the outlet (receptacle) or switch itself that is installed into it.
- Noun:
- Before installing the new light fixture, you must first secure the outlet box to the ceiling joist.
- The electrician checked all the outlet boxes for proper grounding.
- This type of outlet box is designed for use with non-metallic sheathed cable.
- "Old work" or "remodel" outlet box: A type of outlet box designed to be installed in an existing wall without needing access to the wall studs from the side, often featuring clamps or wings that secure it to the drywall.
- For the renovation, we used old work outlet boxes to avoid having to cut into the studs.
- Electrical box: A more general term that includes outlet boxes, switch boxes, and junction boxes.
- Junction box: A similar enclosure used primarily for housing wire splices or connections, not necessarily for a device like an outlet or switch.
- Switch box: An enclosure specifically designed to house a light switch.
- Electrical outlet box
- Device box (common trade term)
- Wall box
While commonly called an "outlet box," this component is technically a "device box" or "junction box" when defined by electrical codes. The name "outlet box" persists in common usage because it is frequently associated with installing power outlets. It is a critical safety component that prevents wires from contacting flammable materials and contains potential electrical sparks or heat.
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(electricity) receptacle consisting of the metal box designed for connections to a wiring system
