This question made me aware that push-in type connectors are available and got me thinking about using them in an upcoming rewiring project.
I have three types of junctions in my rewiring project where I personally would find this type of connector to be a valuable time saver.
- Join 6 wires together
- Join 5 wires together
- Join 4 wires together
Note: Any junctions where more than 6 wires need to be joined will be joined using terminals and I would still prefer to use wing nuts for junction points where 3 wires or less need to be joined together.
Do I have to buy 6-port connectors, 5-port connectors, and 4-port connectors, or is there a safe, permissible, and legal way to just buy a bunch of 6-port connectors and only use the terminals I need (e.g. some kind of rated "plug" that can be inserted into the wiring ports that are unused).
Best Answer
Leaving open ports is fine. They make smaller sizes for space considerations. Combination packs are available, though they are more expensive when not bought in bulk.
Ideal's Twister® wire connectors(p.3) have specifications for the minimum and maximum numbers of wires. Their In-Sure™ push-in connectors(p.15) are only limited by the number of ports and will accept "any combination of #12-18 AWG solid and stranded copper wires".