AC cable connection questions.

[jvitez]

I'm planning the wiring for 2 NG units heaters for my garage. I'll use a light switch for a shut off, and want to hard wire the heater using AC cable.

So, here's a couple of questions:

1. Can I attach the AC cable vertically from the bottom into a device box? Is the AC connector tight enough to keep the metal cable sheath from slipping over time, or is better to install it horizontally so gravity is putting downward force on the cable not "pull-out" force? I'm thinking of a ceiling device box, or a surface mounted box with the bottom knockout as the connection point.

2. Does anyone make a regular device box cover (usual 2x3x2.5 deep) with a knockout? I haven't seen any around here and a net search was unsuccessful. I can use an octagon box or a 4 square box if need be as they have covers with one knockout, but it seems like a waste when I won't be over the box fill on a regular device box and I have several 2x3x2.5 boxes already.

Thanks in advance.

 

[pattenp]

Yes on the vertical connection on armored cable.

And a cover like this?

See this,,,, http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=174476

 

[jvitez]

Man, this forum is fantastic. Thank you pattenp!!

The thread you linked to is exactly what I was looking for. Steevo's pic of his install is precisely how I want to do it. Awesome! Thanks again.

 

[tfi racing]

-If you just drop the cable vertically out of the box,it will likely fail if an inspector notices it,it should be strapped but lots of people do get away with it.

-That cover will be very hard to find up here,just get a blank one and drill or punch your own hole in it.

 

[jvitez]

tfi racing: hmmmm, thanks for the Canadian viewpoint. How would you strap it? Any pics?

 

[tfi racing]

I would send a pic of mine,but it isn't strapped either!I used a 90 degree bx connector instead of a regular one,that way it can be strapped to the ceiling at a convenient spot if I ever get around to it.

 

[jvitez]

I get it now. 90 deg so the cable sweeps up towards the ceiling. Thanks very much!

 

[sparky36000]

Or you could do something like this attached to a recessed box. Use a straight connector and put a four square blank cover on it. I prefer this method over coming out of a cover.

 

[jvitez]

Thanks for the suggestion sparky3600, it's an interesting idea. Why do you prefer this to coming out of a cover?

 

[sparky36000]

It's easier to make up conductors and tuck them in the box than trying to stuff them in behind a cover and trying to get the screws in the box. You also have plenty of options to connect to your equipment and for strapping conduit. I also hate using 90 degree connectors.

 

[jvitez]

Points taken. I'll have to ponder this for a bit now. I've installed insulation but no vapour barrier yet. Good thing as I keep deciding on more electrical to install!

 

[kenfath]

Quote "I'm planning the wiring for 2 NG units heaters for my garage. I'll use a light switch for a shut off, and want to hard wire the heater using AC cable."

Using a "light switch for a shut off" doesn't sound like a good idea. You want to have power to the units so the fans can run and they can cool down properly. Install a thermostat or if you are determined to have a switch connect it to the low voltage thermostat circuit.

 

[tfi racing]

Quote "I'm planning the wiring for 2 NG units heaters for my garage. I'll use a light switch for a shut off, and want to hard wire the heater using AC cable."

Using a "light switch for a shut off" doesn't sound like a good idea. You want to have power to the units so the fans can run and they can cool down properly. Install a thermostat or if you are determined to have a switch connect it to the low voltage thermostat circuit.

Disconnecting means are required for all gas heating units,typically this switch is only used seasonally or for servicing,not for any kind of control.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I prefer working with flexible liquid tight conduit (a.k.a. "Seal Tite"). Easier to cut. Easier to handle.

All you sparkies out there, is this type of flexible conduit approved for all application were you would use BX ?