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What does a "1 Gang" mean when talking about electrical boxes?

Example: CARLON 1-Gang Metal Adjustable Electrical Box (Lowes.com)

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1 Answer

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It refers to the width of the box. A 1-gang box is wide enough for a switch or duplex receptacle. The idea is that you can "gang" up electrical components in the box.

One gang

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Two gang

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Three gang

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X gang

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Common sizes

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4  
+1 Great answer. – Tester101♦ Jan 23 '12 at 13:53
That first picture for 3-gang is actually a 1-gang turned sideways. – Brad Gilbert Jan 24 '12 at 4:39
@BradGilbert - Thanks! Added new image. – Steve Jackson Jan 24 '12 at 12:18
No gang can argue with that one.. well done – ppumkin Jan 24 '12 at 22:44

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