User: CoolWill, Location: Alabama
Asked on: Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 2:50 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 9:10 am EST
Question: New product from Rack-a-Tiers. It has breakaway knockouts on the sides near the top. I saw these at the supply house today. $8 a piece.... I don't usually go for gimmicks, but I do this kind of repair often enough that I see the value. I bought 6https://rack-a-tiers.com/product/open-splice-junction-box/
Okay, I understand. You saw the new Rack-A-Tiers Open Splice Junction Box and, despite your usual aversion to "gimmicky" tools, you were impressed enough with its potential time-saving features for splice repairs that you bought six.
Here's a breakdown of why you might see the value, and some potential considerations
Pros (Why you might see value)
Time Savings for Splice Repairs
This is the biggest draw. The open-faced design, combined with the breakaway knockouts, allows you to access existing wires without having to disconnect everything and pull new wire through conduit. This can save significant time, especially in difficult or tight locations.
Ease of Installation in Existing Systems
The open design and breakaway knockouts address a common problem: retrofitting boxes into existing systems. You don't have to dismantle everything to get wires into a traditional box.
Code Compliance for Splices
A proper junction box is essential for code-compliant splices. This box provides a secure and enclosed space for the splices.
Reduced Wire Waste
Because you can easily access and extend existing wires, you are less likely to have to pull completely new, longer runs of wire.
Durability
Rack-A-Tiers generally makes decent quality products.
Cons (Potential Considerations)
Price
$8 per box might seem high compared to a standard junction box. The time savings needs to justify the higher cost.
Potential for Weakness
The breakaway knockouts, while convenient, could potentially weaken the overall structure of the box, especially if several are removed.
Aesthetics
The open-faced design might not be ideal for every application. You'll need to consider whether it's acceptable in a visible location.
Your Decision
You made a reasonable call based on your experience. If you frequently perform splice repairs in situations where this box can save significant time and effort, the $8 price point is likely justifiable.
In summary, the Rack-A-Tiers Open Splice Junction Box is a niche product designed to solve a specific problem: making splice repairs in existing systems faster and easier. Its value depends on the frequency and complexity of the splice repairs you perform. Flag for review