Table of Contents
- 1 Do houses have outlets outside?
- 2 What are exterior electrical outlets called?
- 3 What happens if an outdoor outlet gets wet?
- 4 Do outdoor receptacles need AFCI?
- 5 Should outdoor electrical outlets be covered?
- 6 What are the electrical requirements for outdoor receptacle outlets?
- 7 What are some examples of proper electrical outlet locations?
Do houses have outlets outside?
Most new homes have at least a couple of outdoor electrical outlets. But these aren’t just any old outlets. To protect outlets where water might be present, a special outlet is needed. A ground fault is a fault, caused by old wires, chewed wires or accidents, that causes a spike of current to run to the ground.
Where are exterior outlets required?
Homes must have at least one outdoor receptacle at the front and rear of the house. They must be readily accessible from the ground and positioned no more than 6 1/2 feet above grade (ground level).
What are exterior electrical outlets called?
Outdoor receptacles—the official name for standard power outlets—include those mounted to exterior house walls as well as on detached garages, decks, and other outdoor structures. Receptacles also may be installed on poles or posts in a yard. All 15-amp and 20-amp, 120-volt receptacles must be GFCI-protected.
Why are outlets outside?
Outdoor outlets are a much more convenient way to plug in your outdoor tools and lighting, and you can install one in a single day. Outdoor electrical outlets differ from indoor outlets because they have watertight covers that protect the outlet even with a cord plugged in.
What happens if an outdoor 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 outdoor receptacles need AFCI?
AFCI protection is not required for outlets located outside or in garages or bathroom areas.
How do you weatherproof an outdoor outlet?
Tips for Keeping Your Outdoor Electrical Box Waterproof
- Use a GFCI Outdoor Outlet.
- Make Sure Outlets are Properly Installed.
- Install a Weatherproof Cover.
- Take Safety Precautions.
- Don’t Let a Rainstorm Cause You Electrical Problems at Home!
Should outdoor electrical outlets 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 electrical outlets in the rain?
How to Keep Plugs Dry Outside
- Using an Electrical Tape.
- Using a Plastic Bag.
- Install Covers under a Roof.
- Use a Weatherproof Cover.
- Use Dielectric Greases.
- Use Waterproof Sockets and Plugs.
- Make Your Own Cover.
What are the electrical requirements for outdoor receptacle outlets?
A requirement added to the NEC in 2008 states that balconies, decks and porches that can be accessed from inside need to have a minimum of one receptacle outlet placed within the perimeter of the outdoor structure. This addition also states that the receptacle must not be more than 6 1/2 feet above the outdoor structure’s surface.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor electrical outlets?
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).
What are some examples of proper electrical outlet locations?
Examples of proper electrical outlet locations are shown in our two sketches below, courtesy of Carson Dunlop Associates and in the following list of electrical outlet location requirements: Tub-Shower clearance: Keep electrical receptacles at least three feet (one meter) away from a tub or shower.
What do you do if you can’t find an indoor outlet?
If you can’t find a suitable indoor outlet, you may have to run cable from another power source, such as another outdoor electrical outlet or a basement junction box. If you use another outdoor outlet as the power source, house your connecting cables in a 1/2-inch metal conduit.