Wth is this ?!?

**Aaron Scheuerer** · 11-16-2016, 04:23 PM

Hi guys just came across this and have never seen it before any help?! Is it ok this wire running through he wall I know cords aren't supposed to run under carpet or into walls but I don't know about this. Any help would be awesome thanks!!!

**Gunnar Alquist** · 11-16-2016, 04:28 PM

Originally Posted by Aaron Scheuerer

Hi guys just came across this and have never seen it before any help?! Is it ok this wire running through he wall I know cords aren't supposed to run under carpet or into walls but I don't know about this. Any help would be awesome thanks!!!

Hi Aaron,

Looks like a plug-in transformer. I seem to recall seeing some of these as a part of the phone system, but I don't know exactly what function they provide.

Did you unplug it? There is typically information on the underside.

What is the weird white polygon on the wall? Is that some kind of reflection from the flash?

**biglebowski** · 11-16-2016, 04:30 PM

Transformer probably tied to alarm system somewhere nearby

**Aaron Scheuerer** · 11-16-2016, 04:33 PM

Thanks a lot guys!!! Yea the white is an odd reflection from my camera. Should I suggest having this removed ?! No I didn't unplug it because it was screwed into the outlet and I didn't want to damage anything he house was in such piss poor shape

**biglebowski** · 11-16-2016, 05:00 PM

Definitely don't ever unplug these in case its in use. Its not a defect so no need write it up as one but It's worth excluding any low voltage systems like phones or alarms if you do not plan on testing that system.

**Jerry Peck** · 11-16-2016, 05:01 PM

That looks to be the low voltage side, the same rules do not apply to low voltage.

**Aaron Scheuerer** · 11-16-2016, 05:35 PM

awesome thanks so much guys!!!

**Rick Cantrell** · 11-20-2016, 10:20 AM

Sorry for the delayed response. I don't read IN as often.
This is a transformer for an alarm system.
Alarm system transformers are secured to the outlet by a screw so that it is not accidentally unplugged.
The wire/ cable to the transformer is phone cable which is 24 ga wire. It is required to be wired with 22ga or better or 18ga fire rated if connected to fire alarm.
It is allowed to pass through walls, floors, or ceilings unprotected.

**Jim Port** · 11-20-2016, 11:19 AM

That is not a cord. it is a cable. Aaron has given good information.

**Rick Cantrell** · 12-14-2016, 08:44 AM

Originally Posted by Jim Port

That is not a cord. it is a cable. Aaron has given good information.

Sorry Jim,what is pictured is a cable.
One or more insulated wires surrounded by an insulating jacket.

**Jim Port** · 12-14-2016, 10:41 AM

Originally Posted by Rick Cantrell

Sorry Jim,what is pictured is a cable.
One or more insulated wires surrounded by an insulating jacket.

I agree Rick. Check my original post.

**david shapiro** · 12-17-2016, 08:09 AM

Originally Posted by Aaron Scheuerer

Hi guys just came across this and have never seen it before any help?! Is it ok this wire running through he wall I know cords aren't supposed to run under carpet or into walls but I don't know about this. Any help would be awesome thanks!!!

NEC Article 725 might be a place to start. There are tricky little requirements, I believe, such as firestopping chases that are burrowed up through fire barriers.