I share your concerns about SPRING LOADED BACKSTAB connections and you are absolutely correct. However, there is a breed of receptacle that permits up to four conductors hot and four conductors neutral to be backstabbed in such a way that the conductors are bound down tight by the terminal screws. In my opinion these are suitable and safe for backstab connections. But I don't think I would use four conductors on each side - that is the place for a pigtail or two.
I've been replacing backstab outlets in my mom's kitchen.... they were installed by a contractor in mid-80s during a remodel. So many wires just fall out when I pull the plug out of the box, many are blackened/scorched. Even a few had hot/neutral switched. I noticed they're still being sold at HD for $0.98 each, with no side-wire option on them.
Hey David,
Thanks for your comment and thanks for the information
I share your concerns about SPRING LOADED BACKSTAB connections and you are absolutely correct. However, there is a breed of receptacle that permits up to four conductors hot and four conductors neutral to be backstabbed in such a way that the conductors are bound down tight by the terminal screws. In my opinion these are suitable and safe for backstab connections. But I don't think I would use four conductors on each side - that is the place for a pigtail or two.
I've been replacing backstab outlets in my mom's kitchen.... they were installed by a contractor in mid-80s during a remodel. So many wires just fall out when I pull the plug out of the box, many are blackened/scorched. Even a few had hot/neutral switched. I noticed they're still being sold at HD for $0.98 each, with no side-wire option on them.
Thank you for your comment and I am glad you replaced the receptacles in your Moms Kitchen