a wrote:

Tony Hwang wrote:

a wrote:

OK - I've read the bitter vitriol in here used to describe the use of the
push-in option when wiring electrical outlets, but is there any study
someone can point to that has tested the long term difference between the
screw terminals and the push-in variety? All I hear is anecdotal - kinda
like the resistance a few have for using PEX in plumbing.

Aside from 'personal experience', is there any data?

a

Hi,
I don't know about statistical data but just law od physics.
It may be quick and easy method but look at the contact area of
the wire vs. looping wire around screw and tightening it.
Spcially when the outlet is carry near capacity current.
I never wired using stab method. But I am sold on PEX.


(I *love* PEX too!) but I do think about the physics - is a larger contact
area better? Will I get a bigger jolt if I put my thumb on a hot rail than
if I put my pinkie on it?

a
Hi,
Jolt is a function of voltage, not current. Across car battery, not much
jolt.Current is a function of contact area or size of wire. Like thicker
wire has more current carrying capacity. If frequency of current goes
way high into R.F. range, skin effect comes into play. That is why R.F.
carrying conductor is some times hollow pipe or multi strand wire(Litz
wire), not solid core wire.
I am retired EE who used to work on mega size telecomm/computer site. On
mil-spec wiring, I never observed stab wiring. Probalby commercial
wiring is same.