What is the volume required for a 14 AWG copper conductor in an outlet box?

The volume required for a 14 AWG copper conductor in an outlet box is 2 cubic inches. This requirement comes from the National Electrical Code (NEC), which specifies conductor fill calculations based on wire gauge and the number of conductors present in a junction or outlet box.

For a 14 AWG copper conductor, the NEC states that each conductor requires a minimum of 2 cubic inches of space in the outlet box to accommodate the wire and ensure safety regarding heat dissipation and accessibility for maintenance. This volume allocation is crucial for preventing overcrowding, which could lead to overheating or failures due to an excessive number of conductors or connections within the box.

Understanding that volume calculations also account for other factors, such as devices (e.g., switches or receptacles) and the number of conductors, reinforces the importance of adhering to these standards. Thus, selecting 2 cubic inches accurately reflects the code requirement for a 14 AWG copper conductor.