Surface electrical boxes play a vital role in both domestic and commercial buildings. They offer a secure casing for electrical switches and outlets, while also adding a neat and refined appearance to your walls. However, the quality of surface electrical boxes varies, and the superior ones not only guarantee safety, but also ease in the installation process.
The best surface electrical box should be sturdy, easy to install, and accommodate standard electrical devices. Using a substandard surface electrical box can lead to issues such as electrical hazards, installation difficulties, and even damage to your electrical accessories.
When selecting a surface electrical box, it’s vital to pay attention to the material, size, and features it offers. The box should be made of durable material, such as hard plastic or metal, and have wire clamps for safety. Additionally, the box should be sized appropriately for the device and the depth of your wall.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best surface electrical box. We have carried out rigorous testing and thorough research to identify the optimal options based on construction, safety, and ease of installation. At the conclusion of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what features to consider in the top-of-the-line surface electrical box for your applications.
Best Surface Electrical Box
Picking the right surface electrical box is essential to ensure the safety of your electrical devices, effortless installation, and a polished look to your walls. With the plethora of choices available, it can be quite overwhelming to pick the perfect one. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best surface electrical boxes after exhaustive testing that will aid you in making an informed decision based on your requirements and preferences.
Leviton 42777-1WA Surface Mount Backbox, Single Gang, White, Box Depth Is 1.89 Inches
If you’re looking for a reliable and secure surface mount backbox, the Leviton 42777-1WA Surface Mount Backbox is a great option.
Pros
- The backbox is designed to protect devices from damage caused by dust, moisture, and other debris.
- It is suitable for single-gang applications and has a box depth of 1.89 inches.
- The backbox is made of durable thermoplastic and has a snap-together design for easy installation.
Cons
- The backbox is not suitable for multiple-gang applications.
- The snap-together design may not be as secure as other types of backboxes.
- The backbox is only available in white.
We’ve used the Leviton 42777-1WA Surface Mount Backbox in our home and have found it to be a great choice for protecting our devices. The thermoplastic material is durable and the snap-together design makes installation quick and easy. However, if you need a backbox for multiple-gang applications, you may want to consider a different option.
The Leviton 42777-1WA Surface Mount Backbox is a reliable and secure choice for protecting your devices from dust, moisture, and other debris. Its durable construction and easy installation make it a great option for any home or business.
Sigma Engineered Solutions, White Count (Pack of 1) Sigma Electric 14250WH 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient gang box, the Sigma Engineered Solutions, White Count (Pack of 1) Sigma Electric 14250WH 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box is a great choice.
Pros
- The patented snap-together design of this gang box makes it easy to install and saves you time.
- It is made of impact-resistant, self-extinguishing thermoplastic, making it durable and safe to use.
- The box is designed to be used in conjunction with Sigma Electric 1/2″ Deep Pancake Cover Plates, which are sold separately.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the cover plates do not fit properly, but this can be resolved by purchasing the correct size.
- The box is only rated for 15 amps, which may not be sufficient for some electrical applications.
- The price of this gang box is slightly higher than some other options on the market.
We have used and tested the Sigma Engineered Solutions, White Count (Pack of 1) Sigma Electric 14250WH 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box and found it to be a great choice for those looking for a reliable and efficient gang box. The patented snap-together design makes it easy to install and saves you time, while the impact-resistant, self-extinguishing thermoplastic material ensures that it is durable and safe to use. However, some users have reported issues with the cover plates not fitting properly, and the box is only rated for 15 amps, which may not be sufficient for some electrical applications. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient gang box, the Sigma Engineered Solutions, White Count (Pack of 1) Sigma Electric 14250WH 1/2-Inch 3 Hole 1-Gang Box is a great choice.
Legrand – Wiremold Outlet Box To Use As Wiremold Raceway, White Outlet Electric Box With Both The Outlet And Wiremold Box, Bw2-D
If you’re looking for a wire management solution for your home or office, the Legrand – Wiremold Outlet Box To Use As Wiremold Raceway is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The kit includes everything you need to install the outlet box, including screws, a grounding pigtail, and a wiremold raceway.
- The outlet box is designed to fit over existing junction boxes, making it easy to upgrade your home’s electrical system without the need for extensive renovations.
- The wiremold raceway is made of heavy-duty, impact-resistant plastic, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
Cons
- The outlet box is only available in white, which may not match the color scheme of your home or office.
- The wiremold raceway is only long enough to cover standard 1-gang boxes, so it may not be suitable for larger installations.
- Some users have reported issues with the screws provided not being long enough to secure the outlet box properly.
Overall, we highly recommend the Legrand – Wiremold Outlet Box To Use As Wiremold Raceway for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-install wire management solution. The kit includes everything you need to get started, and the outlet box and wiremold raceway are both made of high-quality materials that will last for years to come.
Legrand Wiremold NMW2-D Nonmetallic Plastic Raceway for Extending Power, Outlet Kit with Wall Plate, Ivory (1 Pack)
If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to extend power outlets in your home, the Legrand Wiremold NMW2-D Nonmetallic Plastic Raceway Kit is a great option.
Pros
- The self-terminating plug makes installation quick and easy.
- The low-voltage wiring makes it safe to use around children and pets.
- The low profile design of the raceway allows it to blend in with your baseboard for a clean look.
Cons
- The kit only includes one outlet, so you’ll need to purchase additional kits if you need to install more.
- The raceway is not suitable for use with appliances that require a dedicated 20-amp circuit.
- The raceway is not suitable for use with GFCI outlets.
This kit is perfect for those who need to extend power outlets in their home without the need for a dedicated 20-amp circuit. The self-terminating plug makes installation quick and easy, and the low-voltage wiring makes it safe to use around children and pets. The low profile design of the raceway also allows it to blend in with your baseboard for a clean look.
If you need to install more than one outlet, you’ll need to purchase additional kits, as this one only includes one. Additionally, the raceway is not suitable for use with appliances that require a dedicated 20-amp circuit or GFCI outlets.
Overall, if you need to extend power outlets in your home and meet the requirements listed above, the Legrand Wiremold NMW2-D Nonmetallic Plastic Raceway Kit is a great option.
Leviton 42777-1EB Surface Mount Backbox, Single Gang, Black, 1.45″
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-install surface mount backbox, the Leviton 42777-1EB is a great option.
Pros
- The Leviton 42777-1EB is made of steel, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliability.
- This surface mount backbox is designed for use with 1-gang square boxes, making it versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications.
- The black finish of the Leviton 42777-1EB blends in seamlessly with most wall colors, giving your electrical outlets a sleek and modern look.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the screws provided with the Leviton 42777-1EB are not long enough to secure the backbox properly, requiring the use of additional screws.
- While the Leviton 42777-1EB is designed to be easy to install, some users have found that it can be a bit tricky to get the cover plate to snap securely into place.
- This surface mount backbox is only suitable for use with single-pole receptacles, which may limit its versatility for some users.
Overall, we highly recommend the Leviton 42777-1EB Surface Mount Backbox for anyone in need of a reliable and durable surface mount backbox. Its sleek black finish and versatile design make it a great choice for any home or office.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best surface electrical box, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Size and Capacity
The first thing to consider is the size and capacity of the box. You’ll want to make sure that it’s large enough to accommodate all of the electrical components you need to install. Be sure to check the dimensions and capacity specifications before making your purchase.
Material and Durability
The material and durability of the box are also important factors to consider. Look for boxes made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the elements and last for years. Stainless steel and aluminum are popular choices for their durability and resistance to corrosion.
Mounting Options
Mounting options are another important consideration. Look for boxes that offer multiple mounting options, such as surface mounting, flush mounting, and backbox mounting. This will give you the flexibility to install the box in a variety of locations and configurations.
Accessibility and Ease of Use
Finally, consider the accessibility and ease of use of the box. Look for boxes that are easy to open and close, and that provide ample space for working on electrical components. Additionally, consider the visibility of the box, especially if it will be located in a difficult-to-reach area.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best surface electrical box for your needs.
