Custom Control Panel: Any Electricians Out There????

[reptilemanmark]

I`ve seen some posts about why is it ok for companies to do this.
Or outlet strips. These are usually UL rated or tested. If you could inclose the whole thing in the back it would probably be OK. But the boxes would be easier and thats what they are designed for. Also alot of the strips people are using are probably for computers not (fish tank wet locations). I`ve had a timer strip start to smoke when some saltwater splashed on it. Just need to keep an eye on things if it gets wet or starts to look funky throw it out.:eek1:

 

[wayoutacontrol]

You absolutely must put boxes behind the switchs and plugs, if there was a fault in one of the devices it could get very hot and or create sparks. The purpose of the box is to contain heat and sparks and not to prevent water as thereefkeeper keeps talking about.
In my opinion all non-electricrians should be very cautious with their "looks good, go ahead" it would be a real shame to here about some dieing in a house fire due electrical work aproved by joe blow on RC.
Just to go over it again all devices and splices and wire conections need to be inside an approved box.
Plastic power strips are approved and tested by UL(usa) and CSA(canada) so unless you are going to apply for UL testing please don't compare your DIY with a purchased tested product.
Human lives are in the hands of every DIY electrical project.