Beatrice Lang
In the context of electrical boxes, the term gang refers to the number of switches or outlets that can be accommodated within the box. This term is used to describe the width of the box, with a 1-gang box being wide enough for a single switch or duplex receptacle, and larger boxes accommodating more components. The usage of the term gang varies slightly between the US and UK, with the former using it to refer to the physical size of the box, while in the UK, it refers to the number of sockets or switches, irrespective of the box's physical size. Gang boxes are used to house electrical connections and are made of metal or hard plastic, providing a safe and organised method for running and accessing wiring in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Characteristics and Values of "Gang" in Electrical Boxes
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A colloquial term for a toolbox or workbox that can be accessed by multiple workers |
| Origin | Derived from "gang" referring to the group of tools used for a project or the group of workmen/tradesmen |
| Function | Used to gang up or join different switchboard accessories onto the box |
| Usage | Used in construction, residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to house electrical connections and provide a safe and organized method for running and accessing electrical wiring |
| Types | Junction boxes, outlet boxes, new work boxes, old work boxes, round pan or pancake boxes, etc. |
| Sizes | 1-gang, 2-gang, 3-gang, etc., with the number indicating the width or the number of switches/outlets that can be accommodated |
| Design | Available in various sizes and configurations, typically made of metal or hard plastic with knockout holes for wires |
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What You'll Learn
Gang's different meanings in the US and UK
In the context of electrical boxes, the term "gang" is used to refer to the number of circuits, switches, or sockets in a box. However, the specific meaning of "gang" can vary between the US and the UK.
In the US, "gang" typically refers to the physical size of the circuit box. The width of the box indicates how many standard switches or receptacles it can accommodate. This is because US construction generally follows the rule of one circuit per standard fixed box width. So, a 2-gang box in the US is twice the width of a 1-gang box and can accommodate two switches or sockets.
In the UK, "gang" is used to refer to the number of circuits or switches in a box, but when referring to boxes and blank plates, it indicates the corresponding size of the socket. So, a 1-3 gang switch in the UK would typically fit on a 1-gang box, while a 4 or 6 gang switch would require a 2-gang box. The physical dimensions of UK boxes are different from those in the US, and UK plugs are usually larger and not stacked on top of each other. As a result, a 2-gang box in the UK will be roughly 1.5 times the width of a 1-gang box, and a 3-gang box will be about twice the width of a 1-gang box.
It is worth noting that the term "gang" can also have different meanings in other countries. For example, in some parts of the world, "gang" may refer to the number of circuits within a box, irrespective of its physical size. This usage aligns more closely with the UK definition, emphasizing functionality over the box's dimensions.
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Gang in electrical boxes
The term "gang" is used in the context of electrical boxes to refer to the number of electrical components or circuits that can be "ganged up" or accommodated within the box. In simple terms, it indicates how many switches, sockets, or other accessories can be placed in a given box. For example, a 1-gang box can typically fit one switch or duplex receptacle, while a 2-gang box can accommodate two switches or sockets. The gang terminology is used to describe the width of the box, with each gang representing a standard width that can accommodate a certain number of components.
The usage of the term "gang" can vary slightly between different regions, such as the UK and the US. In the UK, a 2-gang box is wider than a 1-gang box and typically has two sockets, while the US accessories usually follow a three-part system with the box, accessories, and plate being separate components. The US construction industry often associates "gang" with the physical size of the circuit box, as their standard practice involves using one circuit per standard fixed box width. This association has evolved over time, as initially, "gang" referred to the number of circuits, irrespective of the box's physical size.
Gang boxes, also known as electrical gang boxes or gangable electrical boxes, are enclosures that house electrical connections and accessories. They are commonly made of metal or hard plastic and are designed to provide a safe and organized method for running and accessing electrical wiring in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. These boxes are available in different sizes and configurations, allowing for flexibility in electrical system design. They are essential for fire safety and are used for receptacles, ceiling fans, outside outlets, and more.
It is important to note that the term "gang" can be used more broadly in the construction industry. For instance, a "gang box" or "gangbox" can also refer to a toolbox or workbox shared by multiple workers. This usage of the term likely stems from the idea of a "gang" referring to a group of workers or the set of tools used for a specific project.
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Gang box sizes
The size of a gang box for electrical boxes depends on the wiring installation and the number of devices that need to be connected. Gang boxes are available in single, double, triple, and even quadruple configurations, each capable of holding a different number of devices. For instance, a single-gang box can hold one device, a double-gang box can hold two, and so on.
It's important to ensure that there is enough space in the gang box for all the necessary components, including devices, cable wires, wire connectors, and cable clamps. The National Electrical Code (NEC) provides recommendations for the maximum number of conductors allowed in a box, and these regulations should be followed to ensure safety and compliance.
The type of material used for the gang box is also a consideration. Metal boxes, typically made of steel, aluminium, or cast iron, are sturdy and available in a wider range of sizes than plastic boxes. They are often required by building codes due to their durability. Plastic boxes, on the other hand, are usually made of PVC, fiberglass, or thermoset, and are favoured for most residential installations because they are less expensive and quicker to install since they don't need to be grounded.
When choosing a gang box size, it's important to consider the specific requirements of the project, including the number of devices, the type of wiring, and any relevant building codes or regulations. Consulting with a certified electrician or a local building inspector can help ensure that the correct gang box size and type are selected for the intended application.
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Junction boxes
In the context of electrical boxes, the term "gang" refers to the number of electrical components or circuits that can be accommodated within the box. For example, a 2-gang box can fit two switches or outlets, while a 3-gang box can accommodate three. The specific dimensions and designs of gang boxes can vary between different countries, such as the UK and the US.
It is important to note that junction boxes must be properly covered, installed, and compliant with applicable building codes. The cover serves multiple purposes, including protecting the wires, preventing dirt, dust, and moisture ingress, and mitigating the risk of sparks igniting combustible materials in case of loose connections or short circuits. Additionally, it is always recommended to turn off the main power before working with a junction box to ensure safety.
Overall, junction boxes are a fundamental component of electrical systems, providing a safe and organised way to manage electrical connections in various settings.
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Work or device boxes
Work boxes are designed for indoor or outdoor use, while some are made for installation behind or outside walls. They can contain light switches, wires, or outlets. A handy box, for example, mounts on the surface of a wall and can contain light switches or receptacles. It is ideal for areas where behind-the-wall installation is difficult or impossible.
A new work box is installed as part of a new construction project. It mounts directly to studs or joists or is placed between two studs using a bar hanger before applying drywall. An old work box, also called a "remodeling box", is installed on drywall after it has been hung. It is used when replacing an existing electrical box.
Work boxes are constructed of metallic or non-metallic material. Metal boxes are usually made of aluminum, steel, or cast iron, while non-metallic boxes are made of PVC or plastic. Metal boxes are more durable and provide better fire resistance and grounding options.
When installing a work box, it is important to follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes. Electrical boxes must be covered with matching electrical box covers and cannot be covered with drywall, panelling, or other wall coverings. It is also important to ensure that the box has enough space for the conductors inside.
Tools such as screwdrivers, wire strippers, pliers, voltage testers, drills, fish tape, levels, stud finders, measuring tape, hammers, and electrical tape are necessary for installing work boxes. It is also important to always turn off the power to the circuit before beginning work.
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Frequently asked questions
"Gang" is a colloquial term used in the construction industry to refer to toolboxes or workboxes that can be accessed by multiple workers. In the context of electrical boxes, "gang" refers to the number of electrical components that can be ganged up or joined together in the box.
In the US, "gang" generally refers to the physical size of the circuit box. The number of "gangs" indicates how many standard switches or receptacles the box can accommodate. In the UK, the n-Gang terminology is similar, but the dimensions are different. A 2-Gang UK box is roughly 1.5 times the width of a 1-Gang box, while a US 2-Gang box is twice the width.
Gang boxes are used to house electrical connections and provide a safe and organized method for running and accessing electrical wiring in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They are available in different sizes and configurations, allowing for flexibility in electrical system design.
Gang boxes can be used for various applications, including receptacles, ceiling fans, outside outlets, and more. They are commonly used during home renovations when adding new electrical outlets or switches to a room. Gang boxes are also used as junction boxes for connecting multiple circuits in construction sites.
