How can I safely extend multiple Romex cables to a new box in my kitchen without going into the attic?
Asked by Brett Peters 
3 months ago
Last Updated: October 9, 2024
I’m about to start putting in some backsplash tile in my kitchen, but I’ve run into a little snag. There’s a 2 gang outlet/switch that needs to be moved over about 18 inches. The tricky part is that the wiring is connected to a GFCI protected circuit and it’s not coming from the attic.
So, when I took out the outlet and switch, I found 4 sets of romex cables coming from the bottom of the box. I was all set to head up to the attic to pull some new cable, but now I’m not sure what the best move is.
I think I can shorten one of the romex cables since the GFCI outlet is on the left. But how can I safely and, ideally, up to code in Maricopa County, extend the other 3 romex cables to a new box on the left?
You can leave that box where it is and turn it into a junction box. Then, run new Romex to the new box in its new location and set everything up there. ‘t forget to take pictures to keep track of the original connections. Once that’s done, cover the old box. (Note: I’m not in AZ, so I’m not sure about the specific codes there.)
You’ll need to remove it and rerun it up to the new box. If you’re tiling the wall, you can’t cover the old box unless it’s inactive. This means you’ll have to locate where the wires are coming from, remove them, and then run them again to the new box. Hope that explanation was clear. Best of luck! 👍🏼
Where are you located? There are no restrictions in my area that would prevent you from installing a makeup box and running the wire over to a new box. You could purchase a plate for the old box and cover it.
Mentioned that they were planning to cover the wall with tile. I assume they wouldn’t want a junction box in the middle of the newly tiled area. They can certainly run the wire over to the next box and cover the existing junction box as you suggested.
Yes, ! That should be obvious, right? But you mentioned needing to deactivate the box before covering it?!? Just convert it into a junction box and cover it up! What exactly are you proposing to remove?
It’s best to reach out to a qualified electrician for this task. It’s not really a project for homeowners.
I hold electricity in high regard and feel at ease when making adjustments. Just seeking some guidance since I always ensure that all modifications comply with the code and are safe.
Hey there, AZ electrician here. I see a couple of things happening in this setup. The switch leg and lighting power are on the right side. There’s a power jumper leading to another location. It’s interesting that red is being used as the switch leg, not the usual choice for a single pole switch.
The outlet is on a GFCI, but there are two hits there, probably an outlet to the left and one to the right. The code might not be a big deal unless you’re getting it inspected, but keep in mind that you shouldn’t have more than 2 feet from outlet to outlet. Moving it 18 inches might impact this rule, but it’s hard to say without seeing the entire wall
So if I’m getting it right, you can have consecutive non-GFCI outlets that are safeguarded by a GFCI outlet, but they need to be within 2 feet of each other?
That all adds up. I messaged you a PM with the wall pic.
Yes, .
Looks like the outlet is actually 14-2 instead of 12-2. I think that circuit trips frequently
It’s not possible to conceal a junction box without access