I need to move a thermostat. Can I splice the wires and only run new from the current location or must I run new wires from the furnace? It would not be any more work to do an entirely new run (walls and ceilings are open).
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You can splice the wires. But if it's really no more work, I'd run a new intact one. Most electrical wiring failures occur at splices and terminations.
Ed
I'd suggest that you solder those little wires if you're going to splice them. No way would I trust anything else I've seen, not to fail at some point.
If it's just as easy to get a small spool of the stuff and run it fresh, that's what I'd do too.
What edlee said.
Qualifier - if the splice location can be moved to a location that will remain exposed once the building is finished - I would not hesitate to splice.
Small wire nuts or twist, solder and heat shrink. Leave some slack or a small loop at the splice just in case of a future problem.
If a dampish location like a dirt floor crawl space - I like to use the closed end crimp connectors (look similar to a wire nut, but crimp on). Twist wires together, crimp on the connector then fill the connector cavity / opening with GE Silicone II - corrosion ceases to be an issue even in a boat bilge. USCG approved for Inspected Small Passenger Vessels.
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
Never bury a splice. Run new - as you said, its open and no big deal...