ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area To Tape or not to Tape?

I never tape wire nuts, and maybe it is just a habit, but I tape devices. I always leave a "courtesy tail".

I was reminded of this thread today as I wrapped tape around a wire nut. Not all red wirenuts are created equal and sometimes the only ones available are the least adequate. I decided that I had no choice but to work it hot therefore I stripped more insulation than I would have if I had been able to touch the stripped ends. I didn't feel good about stuffing everything back in the box that way, so I taped it. I'll sleep well tonight.

As an FYI, I recently came across this in Instructions for installing a Light Fixture.



There is an accompanying description on how to apply tape to the wirenut.

Bill

off topic
I wouldn't consider taping a wire nut because the conductors are overstripped to be acceptable.
After twisting the wires together, I would snip any excess, even if hot.

I tend to believe that a properly installed wirenut doesn't need tape.(I once asked a contractor I was working for if I should tape the wire nuts and he looked at me like I was from Mars. Time is money, I guess.) Devices also. However, there is the possibility in metal boxes of grounding them out during removal if it's energized, but no one works on things hot, right?

[This message has been edited by Redsy (edited 05-09-2001).]

Everyone's got their point on this subject and it's not without merit.

In general, when it comes to Receptacles in Residential work I've got to admit to being a "taper".

Reason:
Who among us hasn't seen broken or missing cover plates and small children with little wet fingers nearby. It's one of my 'peeves'. We can't assure that Receptacles remain covered after We leave. Justified or not, if I can save any innocent child from the trauma caused by their curiosity it's worth it. Bottom line I guess is that it makes Me feel a little better too.

Bill

Eagle has this new line of recepts (maybe switches too?) that have covers that snap over the terminal screws. This would provide the same protection without the mess associated.

Just a thought.

-Virgil