Yes, you can safely use electrical appliances outside while it’s raining (assuming you are under cover, such as in an outdoor kitchen/dining area), as long as you have a waterproof cover in place.
How do you protect outdoor electrical outlets in the rain?
How to Protect Outdoor Outlets From Rain
- Install the Right Kind of Outlets. Which outlet or receptacles do you need for outdoor use? …
- Install GFCI Protection. You need GFCI protection for your home in any location that may come into contact with water. …
- Install Bubble Covers for Outdoor Outlets.
Are outdoor electrical outlets waterproof?
The National Electrical Code has a policy for outdoor outlets, that only weather resistant (WR) GFCI receptacles be used outdoors. They offer protection from humidity, rain, ice, and snow when properly installed in approved weather protected covers.
Do outdoor 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.
Can outdoor plugs be exposed?
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.
What happens if outdoor outlet gets wet?
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. The most at risk here are unsuspecting children and animals who happen to be playing outside.
What happens if an outside outlet gets wet?
Water causes an interruption that makes the outlet quit working, but the wires connected to the outlet may carry a live electrical current. The live current poses both an electrocution hazard and a fire risk. To minimize risks, you need to turn the power off at the breaker box as quickly as possible.
Can you leave something plugged in outside in the rain?
All those factors will harm an indoor extension cable, destroying its insulation and leaving you vulnerable to fires and electric shocks. An extension cord can survive the rain if it is rated for outdoor use and if it is in good condition. However, the plug should be kept out of the rain.
