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Unpopular opinion: EMT set screw connectors are better than compression for most residential jobs
I keep seeing guys on here grabbing compression fittings for basic residential runs in dry locations. Two weeks ago I did a 200 amp panel swap in Houston and the homeowner wanted everything exposed in the garage. I used set screw connectors on all my EMT and saved about 60 bucks on materials alone. Compression has its place outside or in wet areas, but why pay triple the cost when set screws hold just as tight on a dry wall? Who else thinks the trade over-specs compression where it isn't needed?
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drew_thomas92mo ago
Had a buddy who used compression on a job in a warehouse last month. Two weeks later the whole thing was loose because the concrete sweat loosened the grip. Set screws would have bit into the pipe better there.
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ivan402mo ago
That bit about concrete sweat loosening the grip is something I've seen happen more times than I can count. It's like how some things look solid on the surface but the environment underneath works against them. Same with wooden decks in humid weather - the nails start popping up after a while. Seems like every material has its own hidden weakness you only discover after it fails on you.
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