Deck Light Wiring Question

[Robert11]

Hello:

Will be installing a halogen flood light (the rectangular kind with the linear bulb) over my Deck.

The light has a nice flange on its shell (metal) that can go right against the siding.

But, I understand that this is not allowed by code, and there should be a metal box, I think they are called Bell Boxes, between the light's flange and the siding.

a. Is this "really" necessary ?

b. If it is, is it necessary to use one of those *threaded NM wire clamp pieces that would screw into the back of the box where it lays against the siding, or can I just use a bushing (possibly plastic, possibly metal) to cover up the threads so they couldn't cut the wire and no wire clamping ?

It would probably work, but it sure would be a funny way to do it. Would the NM clamp piece be inside the box, or on the outside of the box and therefore pushed into the siding's wire hole ?

*not really sure what the correct term for this piece is. I'm thinking of the piece that is essentially a bushing, with one side threaded (will screw into a metal box), and the other end has a thing metal clamp with two screws for securing the NM wire

Thanks, Bob

[John Grabowski]

Yes, unless the fixture has a built-in compartment for making splices, a junction box must be used. The alternative is to cut a hole in the siding for a recessed box and have the weatherproof cover with the fixture mount on that. Check the instructions that came with the fixture.

You may be able to use a plastic "Button" Romex connector which is similar to a bushing, but prevents the cable from being pulled out of the box.

Two screw Romex connector. Don't install it so the the clamp part is inside the box. If you want to make it smaller to fit in a drilled hole better you can cut the clamp screws.

[Robert11]

Hi John:

Thanks for help and info.

Just want to be sure I have this right:

IF there is plenty of room in the lamp base for splices and wire nuts, then it is O.K. NOT to use a Bell junction box and just mount the lamp's base directly against the siding ?

Is this right ?

Regards, Bob

[John Grabowski]

Yes as long as it is approved by the manufacturer. Do you have a link to the light so that I can take a look?

[Robert11]

Hi John,

Am all set now; found a nice box that will solve all problems, and guess I will just use that. Don't have any link to light; guess it's an off-brand, made heaven knows where.

Again, thnks for all the help and your time; really appreciate it very much.

Regards, Bob