Journeyman Electrician Exam (NEC)Equipment and DevicesEasy
A journeyman electrician is installing a new 120-volt, 15-ampere general-purpose receptacle in a dwelling unit hallway. What is the minimum required free conductor length that must be left at the outlet box for making connections?
- A4 inches
- B6 inches
- C8 inches
- D10 inches
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 6 inches
According to NEC Section 300.14, at least 6 inches of free conductor, measured from the point where it emerges from the raceway or cable sheath, must be left at each outlet, junction, and switch point for making connections.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This length is insufficient for proper connections and is not compliant with NEC.
- C. While longer conductors are acceptable, 8 inches is not the minimum specified by NEC.
- D. While longer conductors are acceptable, 10 inches is not the minimum specified by NEC.
Minimum Free Conductor Length
The minimum length of conductor required to extend from an outlet, junction, or switch box for making connections, as specified by the NEC.
- Applies to all conductors entering a box for connection.
- Ensures adequate slack for safe and proper wiring terminations.
- Measured from where the conductor emerges from the raceway or cable sheath.
Memory trick: Six inches of slack, for connections to attack!