I keep seeing guys in my area use the wrong size wire nuts for 12 gauge solid, and it's making me nervous. They're using the red ones when the spec sheet clearly says orange for that combination. Am I being too picky, or is this a real problem?

2 comments

2 Comments

Honestly, I've used red nuts on 12 solid for years without a single call back. The key is twisting them on tight until the wires are locked. That spec sheet is a guide, not a law. I've seen orange nuts fail on a bad twist just as easy. It's more about the install than the color.

christopher8672d ago

Is it picky to care about wire nuts? Not at all. I saw a light fixture fail last year because of a loose red nut on 12 gauge. The connection overheated and melted the plastic. Following the spec sheet is about safety, not just being neat. It's worth saying something when you see it.