Pigtails...part deux

I have been looking through various wiring books and threads on this board regarding pigtails at receptacles. I'm finding mixed messages.

I'm trying to make sure I understand...

As I get it, pigtailing is not required, but is preferred.

It is required at least for the neutral connection of a multi-wire circuit, as I understand it so the device does not become "part" of the circuit and failure of the device won't result in interruption of the neutral.

Is all this correct?

Is there a good reason not to use both sets of screw connections on a middle-of-the-run receptacle rather than pigtails? No multi-wire circuits.

This board has been very helpful with my project.

Thanks.

 

Pigtails are required when there are more wires than connection points. If you have three wires to connect, and only two screw terminals to connect them to then you have to use a pigtail.


As for two wires and two screw terminals, it is your choice. Some people prefer to use the screw terminals, as they like the connections better. TOhers prefer to use pigtails. The advantage of a pigtail is that you can temporarily remove a recepticle and still have the circuit functioning.

 

There is no consensus. Do whatever makes you feel good. I prefer not to use the pigtails except where required, but that's just me.