replacing a 2 gang box with a 4 gang
#1
01-24-04, 01:23 PM
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replacing a 2 gang box with a 4 gang
I currently have a 2 gang box with 1-3way switch and 1 sigle pole feeding a ceiling fan and a light. I am adding lights to the room and wish to install a 4 gang box where the 2 gang box currently is. I took the cover off the 2 gang box and it is mounted with a 2x4 stud on either side so there is no room to add the 4 gang box. I am not sure if the wall is weight bearing so cutting the stud out is not an option at this time.
In the room I am adding 3- wall sconces on one dimmer, 4 recessed lights on 2 single pole switches, the existing ceiling fan and the existing light. I figured I could use some stackable switches to get this in a 4 gang box.
What are my options to make this work?
Thanks
In the room I am adding 3- wall sconces on one dimmer, 4 recessed lights on 2 single pole switches, the existing ceiling fan and the existing light. I figured I could use some stackable switches to get this in a 4 gang box.
What are my options to make this work?
Thanks
#2
01-24-04, 01:33 PM
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- Cut the stud.
- Cut in boxes above or below the existing one.
- Cut in boxes to either side of the existing one. You will have to get the feed over though.
#3
01-24-04, 04:58 PM
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I'm not a great fan of 4-gang boxes. And duplex switches are okay in a pinch, but not as convenient as separate switches. Furthermore, because dimmers generate heat, they do better in boxes with fewer other switches.
So my preference would be to install a second (or second and third) double-gang box on the other side of that stud that's in the way. On install boxes someplace else. For wall sconces, I prefer the switch to be near the sconce (especially if the wall sconce might be used for reading).
The key to switch placement is to design something that is intuitive, so that you won't have to keep flicking the wrong switch before you find the right one. A four-gang box with duplex switches will be hopelessly confusing.
So my preference would be to install a second (or second and third) double-gang box on the other side of that stud that's in the way. On install boxes someplace else. For wall sconces, I prefer the switch to be near the sconce (especially if the wall sconce might be used for reading).
The key to switch placement is to design something that is intuitive, so that you won't have to keep flicking the wrong switch before you find the right one. A four-gang box with duplex switches will be hopelessly confusing.
#4
02-01-04, 09:31 AM
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Thanks for the replies. I thought you had some good insight so I put a double gang box beside the existing and it worked well and went in without any issues. I have been reading every day for a year and I think I have gotten a better feel for what I can do and how to do it and the need to proceed with caution.
Thanks again
Thanks again
