For example if you have a light fixture that doesn t need a box for mounting but the wiring connections are not protected by some kind of cover then you can t use the fixture without a junction box.
Can i install a light fixture without a junction box.
It poses a danger of electrical shock and could cause a fire.
If you have an old light fixture that is not attached to the wall or ceiling with a junction box you should repair the light fixture by removing it installing a junction box and installing a new fixture.
It is simpler and you get to do away with additional work and costs of buying and installing a junction box.
Light fixtures that simply protrude from the ceiling or wall without a junction box are a fire waiting to happen.
Before you begin make sure your junction box can support the weight of the new light fixture.
You can people do it all the time.
How to center a light fixture when the junction box is off center.
You can t install a light fixture without a junction box but the fact that there s no box at the spot where you want to install the light doesn t mean you can t install the light.
That doesn t mean it s correct.
Types of devices that don t need boxes.
Here is a link to the box i m referring to.
People aren t always careful about placing electrical boxes especially when installing fixtures with wide bases.
If your fixture weighs more you may need to install a junction box that s designed to support heavier light fixtures.
In most cases you would opt to install exterior light without junction box.
If you are removing an existing fixture.
This is a standard single gang weather proof box.
Installing a light fixture in a wall or ceiling without a junction box does not meet mandatory electrical codes.
However a junction box makes work easier in case you need to do more external wiring later on.
Junction boxes typically hold up to 50 pounds.
Whenever it s too late to install a junction box in the wall without ripping off a large section of drywall you can use a remodel junction box instead.
Drywall saw or utility knife.
Or if a fixture meets all of the criteria of a box but lacks a cable clamp don t use it without a box.
What you use for a junction box depends on the light you want to install.