The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires for new construction and replacement outdoor outlet covers to be of the bubble cover type in all wet locations (being weatherproof while outlet is in use).
Do exterior outlets need a cover?
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.
Are bubble covers required?
For several code cycles, outlet box hoods, also called in-use covers or bubble covers, have been required for 15- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250-volt receptacles installed in wet locations. They must also be weatherproof whether or not the attachment plug cap is inserted.
How do you cover an outside outlet?
Youtube quote:Slide on and in some cases you're going to have to run down to the hardware store and get longer screws so that it fits in and all we have to do is grab this foam backer that's going to help protect.
What is an extra duty outlet cover?
An extra-duty rated cover is designed to be able to withstand a little more abuse than other covers. The hinges are sturdier, and the cover is more durable.
Should all outdoor outlets be GFCI?
Outdoor electrical outlets differ from indoor outlets because they have watertight covers that protect the outlet even with a cord plugged in. Plus, the National Electrical Code requires all outdoor outlets to be GFCI outlets (ground fault circuit interrupter outlets).
Are outdoor outlets safe in rain?
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 install an outlet cover?
Youtube quote:The cover plate for one gang outlets. Has a screw in the center of the cover plate that threads clockwise into the center of the outlet. Careful.
How do you install commercial electric in use cover?
Youtube quote:And then slide the base to the right and into position once sent tighten the screws for a secure. Fit to allow the outlet cover to remain closed while in use snap. Off the appropriate poured knockout.
What is an in use cover?
while-in-use covers. for residential and. commercial applications. In-use weatherproof covers are now required to protect outdoor receptacles from wet weather, even when electrical devices are plugged in. Red-Dot® Code Keeper® nonmetallic covers are ideally suited for residential and light-duty commercial environments.
What is GFCI electrical outlet?
GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. These are also referred to as GFIs, or Ground Fault Interrupters. A GFCI precisely monitors the balance of electrical current moving through a circuit. If the power goes where it shouldn’t, like in a short, the GFCI immediately cuts off the electricity.
What type of GFCI outlet do I need?
Where GFCIs Are Required. GFCI protection is required for 125-volt to 250-volt receptacles supplied by single-phase branch circuits rated 150 volts or less to the ground. GFCI receptacles are required in bathrooms, garages, crawl spaces, basements, laundry rooms and areas where a water source is present.
Should I get a 15 or 20 amp GFCI outlet?
Kitchens and bathrooms should always have 20 amp gfci outlets. However, you must be using number 12 wire for 20 amp gfci or regular outlets If your wiring is number 14 guage then use a 15 amp. So, the wire size and breaker size together should be rated for 20 amps!
Is there a difference between GFI and GFCI?
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) and ground fault interrupters (GFI) are the exact same device under slightly different names. Though GFCI is more commonly used than GFI, the terms are interchangeable.
Should a refrigerator be on a GFCI circuit?
A refrigerator shouldn’t be plugged into a GFCI outlet. GFCI outlets are used in areas of the home with water or moisture. These include bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. This type of outlet is important because it reduces the risk of electrocution and electrical fires.
Can I use AFCI instead of GFCI?
Can a separate AFCI Receptacle and a GFCI Receptacle be used on the same circuit? Yes, they both can be used on the same circuit; however, the Dual Function AFCI/GFCI Receptacle offers the option of providing both AFCI and GFCI protection in a single device.
