4 Types of Outdoor Waterproof Wire Connectors
Compared to tape, wire connectors provide a more secure and longer-lasting connection. Plus, they prevent exposed ends from coming into contact with each other to reduce the risk of short-circuit accidents.
The color code on the package indicates which size and type of wires each connector can safely accommodate. Choose the right one for your landscape project.
Wire Nuts
Wire nuts are a popular type of electrical connector. They offer a quick and easy alternative to wrapping wires with tape and can improve the reliability of connections. Whether you need to connect a new outdoor light fixture or just want to prevent electrical shocks, wire nuts are an effective solution.
When selecting a wire nut, consider the size (gauge) and number of wires it can accommodate. The packaging for each model typically offers a color code and a chart that indicates the maximum wire combinations it can safely accommodate.
Some wire nuts have tabs on the side, which help to reduce muscle fatigue when twisting outdoor waterproof wire connectors them into place. This feature is ideal for projects that involve connecting dozens or more wires, as it can make the job much easier and faster to complete. You can also find models with multiple openings to accommodate several wires at once. For example, a multi-port wire nut is perfect for landscape projects where you need to run multiple lines for irrigation or lighting. Finally, there are specialized models for high-temperature and waterproof environments. These options provide an extra level of protection against moisture and soil contaminants, making them suitable for buried applications like underground wires. For example, a black high-temperature wire nut can withstand the higher temperatures commonly found in heating and cooling systems.
Push-In Connectors
The push-in design of these multi-port connectors requires no tools to terminate and saves time on installation. Additionally, they eliminate the need for screwdriver tightening, which can vary and lead to loose connections. They also provide superior vibration resistance, which is important in rugged environments or for applications that use a lot of machinery.
Available in a wide range of sizes, these waterproof wire connectors accept solid copper wire and have a low insertion force to ensure a secure connection. They feature clear polycarbonate shells for easy inspection and have a color-coded index to identify each port. These connectors are also available with a test port to help you verify continuity.
They’re made using UL94V-2 flame-retardant materials and are rated for up to 600 V, making them suitable for most electrical applications in the field. Designed for above-ground, interior or exterior connections that are exposed to damp, wet, or corrosive environments, these connectors are a great alternative to traditional twist-on connectors.
These insulated connectors make it easy to create a permanent outdoor seal for LED projects with five wires or more. They’re easy to connect, and they provide a waterproof seal that protects the conductors from water and corrosion. The caps on these connectors are removable to allow easy access for inspection, testing and application of anticorrosion agents.
Winged Connectors
A popular option for landscape lighting and other outdoor electrical applications, wing connectors use moisture resistant materials to prevent corrosion of exposed wire ends. They work well on new installations where the exposed wires are not being subjected to any significant moisture but are also a good choice for underground and direct burial connections.
They feature a rigid, flame-resistant insulating thermoplastic shell that protects against environmental extremes and chemical damage. They’re rated for temperatures up to 221 degrees Fahrenheit, and their deep skirt design prevents exposure of bare wires. An expandable zinc-plated square wire spring inside instantly adjusts to the shape and size of the splice upon insertion forming a permanent, vibration-resistant connection that exceeds UL standards for dielectric strength and cable pullout force.
These are a great choice for creating wiring extensions or making split wire connections on low voltage landscape lighting and other outdoor electrical projects. They are easy to handle and offer a quicker installation process than soldering. They also allow you to connect a wire to an outlet in a confined space without the need for soldering or crimping tools.
These wing connectors are color coded to represent the wire size range they can accommodate. Matching colors allow you to quickly identify the right wire connector for each job. They’re ideal for connecting LED lighting projects with waterproof connector manufacturer five wires, such as RGB-W fixtures, while maintaining a waterproof connection.
Gel-Filled Connectors
Designed to be used with LED systems that require more than one wire, this revolutionary product makes the job much easier and is the best way to make sure your connections are waterproof. It helps prevent corrosion and reduce costs because it does not require the expensive insulation stripping of most gauges of wire. It works by quickly encapsulating your connections in a non-toxic gel that is completely waterproof, submersible and ready to use right out of the package.
The waterproof gel seals around the wires, which are contained in a groove in the connector’s rear and locked into place with a compression cap. The gap between the seal recess and the compression cap is designed and controlled to apply just the right amount of pressure to the gel, which creates an effective seal that will hold up against the harshest outdoor environments and conditions.
These gel-filled cable joints help you save time and money because they are made with a pre-filled RELICON gel that is ready to use right out of the packaging. These connectors are rated to IP68 and are fully tested and approved to withstand the most demanding conditions. They are ideal for a variety of applications, including butt splicing, tapping, and bridge splices. They also work well for making wiring extensions on your Swamp Eye Submersible Lights and in your saltwater fishing boats.
