Wire nuts offer an easy and effective way to connect two or more wires. Also known as wire caps, they consist of a cylindrical hollow tube that’s open on one end. After stripping insulation off the wires, you can place them in the open end of a wire nut.
Wire nuts have a thin layer of conductive material, such as galvanized steel or copper, within their hollow body. This conductive material facilitates the flow of electricity between the wires. While all wire caps serve the same purpose of joining two or more wires, however, they are available in different types, including twist-on and crimp-style.
What Are Twist-On Wire Nuts?
The most basic type, twist-on wire nuts are characterized by a manual, twist-based installation method. You don’t need any special tools or equipment to install them. Rather, twist-on wire nuts require nothing more than twisting. After placing two or more wires inside of of a twist-on wire nut, you can twist it. Twisting the cap will force the wires to wrap around each other, thereby creating a secure connection.
Common sizes for twist-on wire nuts include the following:
- 18-6 AWG (red)
- 18-12 AWG (yellow)
- 22-14 AWG (orange)
- 22-14 AWG (blue)
- 22-16 AWG (gray)
What Are Crimp-Style Wire Nuts
Crimp-style wire nuts are characterized by a crimp-based installation method. You’ll need a crimping tool to use them. After placing two or more wires inside of a crimp-style wire nut, you’ll need to place the crimping tool over it. Squeezing or engaging the crimping tool will then apply sufficient pressure to collapse the nut and permanently join the wires.
Differences Between Twist-On and Crimp-Style Wire Nuts
Both twist-on and crimp-style wire nuts feature a conductive interior, and they are used for the same purpose of connecting two or more wires. The difference is that twist-on wire nuts are installed via manual twisting, whereas crimp-style wire nuts are installed via crimping.
Aside from their installation methods, there are other nuances between twist-on and crimp-style wire nuts. Twist-on wire nuts, for instance, are easier to remove. If you want to disconnect the wires, you just need to twist the nut in the opposite direction. As you twist the nut, the wires will unwind and loosen. Crimp-style wire nuts, on the other hand, offer a more permanent connection that’s difficult to remove.
Because they are more difficult to remove, crimp-style wire nuts offer a stronger and more reliable connection. Twist-on wire nuts can loosen when exposed to vibrations. Crimp-style wire nuts are crimped during installation to protect against loosening.
