Wire Splicing
#1
11-22-20, 04:41 AM
Wire Splicing
I am installing some builtin bookshelves and there is one wall socket that I will not be able to mount in the bookshelf. I need to remove this wall socket and splice the wires. Since I will not be able to get to it after the bookshelves are installed, should I also solder the connecions?
#2
11-22-20, 04:57 AM
Member
Wire nuts will be fine, but you can't block access to the outlet box via any permanent covering such as wall board or paneling or a built-in bookshelf that cannot be removed to gain access.
#3
11-22-20, 05:31 AM
It's usually better to cut out the back of the bookcase than starting with electrical work.
But if you do want to go down the electrical route, you need to do it right. Make the connections securely, use approved cable (14ga SOJ type cable), use a cover plate and strain relief on the existing box, an approved box and receptacle on the other end, and as Norm mentioned, the existing junction needs to remain accessible - though that's a bit of an opinion presuming it's a movable bookcase.
We can help with the project, but we want to make sure you do it safely!
But if you do want to go down the electrical route, you need to do it right. Make the connections securely, use approved cable (14ga SOJ type cable), use a cover plate and strain relief on the existing box, an approved box and receptacle on the other end, and as Norm mentioned, the existing junction needs to remain accessible - though that's a bit of an opinion presuming it's a movable bookcase.
We can help with the project, but we want to make sure you do it safely!
#5
11-22-20, 06:46 AM
Member
If your existing outlet is at the side or back of the built-in bookcase, you could add a box extension and mount a receptacle or blank plate there. You could also cover the existing box with a removable panel or access panel in the built-in. The wiring in the box must remain accessible unless it can be abandoned after being disconnected/made safe at its source.
#6
11-22-20, 09:50 AM
Member
Outlet in Bookcase
Here is an example:
<img src="https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.doityourselft.com-vbulletin/432x324/p5020014_2_ace9fb57f6f1b49175c0ba0c521dcc614d87f083.jpg" width="432" height="324"/>
Box extension at outlet.
<img src="https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.doityourselft.com-vbulletin/666x292/p5040041_82d229d1a865de2bf3fb6fca1b1d655766dba1e2.jpg" width="666" height="292"/>
Finished outlet in bookcase.
<img src="https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.doityourselft.com-vbulletin/432x324/p5020014_2_ace9fb57f6f1b49175c0ba0c521dcc614d87f083.jpg" width="432" height="324"/>
Box extension at outlet.
<img src="https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.doityourselft.com-vbulletin/666x292/p5040041_82d229d1a865de2bf3fb6fca1b1d655766dba1e2.jpg" width="666" height="292"/>
Finished outlet in bookcase.
#7
11-23-20, 09:24 AM
Member
What is on the other side of the wall where you plan to put the book shelves? Possibly you could remove the existing box and mount one accessible from the other room.
I have read somewhere that there might be some kind of latch above and inside the lens cover but I have not found it, and this space is very awkward to work in (big ladder in 6 foot room), so if someone could give me a clue as to where along this 4.5 foot exspanse I should concentrate my search efforts, I would be very grateful!
Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
Margaret