Do outdoor electrical outlets need to be covered?
Since outdoor outlets are exposed to the elements, such as rain and salty air, outlet covers protect them from damage. Any outlet that’s outside should have a cover, even if the outlet is never used.
How do you protect outdoor outlets from rain?
As earlier indicated, the simplest way to protect outdoor plugs from rain is to use a plastic box with an opening on the bottom. Most outdoor outlets designed for homes usually come with spring covers or flippies. While closed, these covers are completely weatherproof.
What are the covers for outlets called?
Wall plates, also known as switch plates, cover your home’s outlets and light switches, keeping wires out of sight and away from fingers. With a wide variety of colors and materials to choose from, wall plates can complement the decor of any room.
What happens when an outside outlet gets wet?
If an outdoor electrical outlet gets wet, serious issues can occur. A powerful electric shock can injure a person or even cause death. When the outlet becomes wet, the flow of electricity will run in the water. When this happens, anyone who is not observant enough will receive an electric shock.
Are outdoor outlets safe in rain?
When your outside outlet’s wiring is exposed it can compromise the function of the GFCI outlet. When the outlet is exposed to the elements, it can cause the breaker to malfunction, leaving the outlet live and exposed to rain, snow, water etc. depending on the elements and the time exposed, the outlet can catch fire.
Do I need a GFCI for outdoor outlet?
Any 15-amp, 20-amp, or 120-volt outdoor outlet, must have GFCI protection. There are similar outlet requirements for kitchens and bathrooms. Anywhere electricity might be used near water and/or flame, GFCI outlets are at least recommended, if not required, in order to guarantee your family’s safety.
What is a blank outlet cover for?
Cover Empty Electrical Boxes with Blank Plates Use blank plates to cover empty electrical boxes. The standard screw hole spacing on an empty box is 3-9/32″ (3.281″) center to center.
What happens if outdoor outlet gets wet?
What is a rocker outlet cover?
A rocker switchplate is a multi purpose plate used in many applications throughout the home. One of the main uses is for GFI’s or Ground fault interrupters. GFI outlets are typically used in bathrooms, kitchens and others areas where water contact might occur.
What is the purpose of an outlet cover?
Outlet plug covers are safety additions that help prevent accidents and injuries sustained as a result of electrical shocks from uncovered electrical outlets. Electric plug covers also protect power outlets from environmental hazards such as water splash, temperature (heat and cold) and temperature changes (freezing), and weather.
How to protect your outdoor outlets?
Purchase in-use weatherproof plug covers to fit the configuration of your outdoor plugs.
What is an outdoor electrical box?
of 12. Outdoor Electrical Box Weatherproof outdoor boxes are sealed enclosures designed for mounting to the surface of exterior walls, roof overhangs, decks, and other structures. They are used for installing outdoor receptacles (outlets) and light fixtures.