What type of screws must be used to support a vertically mounted luminaire weighing not more than 6 lbs?

In the context of the National Electrical Code (NEC), supporting luminaires involves adhering to specific guidelines to ensure safety and proper installation. For a vertically mounted luminaire weighing no more than 6 lbs, the appropriate choice is to use No. 6 screws.

This specification is based on the NEC’s requirements that consider the weight and mounting orientation of the luminaire. No. 6 screws are designed to provide adequate support and secure the luminaire effectively while ensuring that the structural integrity of the installation is maintained. They offer a balance between strength and size for applications involving lighter fixtures, ensuring that the connection point is both secure and compliant with the code.

Using screws that are too small may not provide the necessary holding power, leading to potential hazards if the fixture were to detach. Conversely, using screws that are too large could complicate the installation or cause damage to the fixture or mounting surface. Thus, No. 6 screws are specified as the optimal choice for this application, ensuring compliance, safety, and ease of installation.