Is It Possible To Use Plastic Outlet Boxes Outside?

When installing an outdoor electrical outlet, it is essential to choose the right material for the enclosure. Plastic junction boxes are designed to withstand all weather conditions, be maintenance-free, flexible, and easy to install. They are specifically designed to fit the power points of your home and work effectively and safely in any weather conditions.

When installing an outdoor outlet, it is important to consider the wall’s smoothness and flatness. If the wall is rough or uneven, the foam gasket provided with the cover may not be enough. To seal the box, add silicone. Plastic wet-in-use boxes should not be used in exposed locations as they can get broken. For residential use, plastic is acceptable, but make sure to use a weather-rated outlet and cover.

To mount an outside outlet on an old-work box cut into the wall, you can buy an outside outlet kit that includes a GFCI outlet and a wet outlet. Choose and mark the outlet location to keep the project simple. Grounding an outlet in a plastic box is not necessary as they are nonconductive.

Installing an outdoor outlet to your home involves tapping an indoor outlet for power. It is also possible to run power directly to a metal outlet. Plastic junction boxes are widely used and are standard for use with Type NM-B cable (Romex). When properly applied, plastic boxes provide a completely safe and secure installation.

When making electrical repairs, you can use either a plastic electrical or junction box or a metal box. Specific boxes are designed for indoor or outdoor use, while others are made for installation behind or outside of walls. Electrical boxes can be constructed of metal or plastic, depending on the circumstances of their use.

Are plastic outlet plugs safe?

Minimize the use of plastic outlet covers, as they pose a choking hazard and are easy to remove. There are 2, 400 children who suffer from burns and severe shocks annually due to sticking something into electrical outlets. Use tamper-resistant outlets, which are spring-loaded shutters that eliminate access to outlets when not in use. Purchase specially-designed electrical strips with a box or dome cover, some of which include a child-protective cover.

One child dies due to a home fire each day, and many fires start from electrical outlets. There are various childproof outlets, some of which work well, while others are inferior. Underperformers offer some protection but are not great.

Can you use plastic outlet boxes outside?

Plastic junction boxes are a cost-effective alternative to steel or aluminum junction boxes, offering comparable or even superior performance to metal in many applications, including outdoor ones. Polycarbonate is highly resistant to denting, deformation, and corrosion from industrial chemicals. Polycase offers a wide variety of NEMA ratings for polycarbonate junction boxes, including the ultra-tough NEMA 6P standard. The company also offers built-in knockouts for easy installation, making the process faster and easier.

Plastic enclosures are easier and more cost-effective to machine, with custom CNC cutout machining available. They weigh less than most metal options and can be easier to mount on poles or walls. Plastic junction boxes are nonconductive, meaning they don’t require grounding, but may require grounding under certain circumstances. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so it’s important to consider potential drawbacks when making your choice.

What kind of outlet can be used outside?

GFCI outlets are essential for outdoor electrical safety, as they protect against electrical hazards such as water and flames. They should be located at the front and back of your house, no higher than six feet off the ground. Outdoor spaces like balconies, decks, and patios should have at least one GFCI outlet accessible from inside. Similar requirements apply to kitchens and bathrooms. It is recommended to use GFCI outlets in areas where electricity might be used near water or flame.

Additionally, ensure that all light bulbs and extension cords are specifically rated for outdoor use, never use indoor cords in outdoor outlets, and never buy bulbs exceeding the outlet’s maximum wattage.

Do exterior outlet boxes need to be metal?

Electrical boxes house various items such as light switches, outlets, ceiling fans, and transition wires. They can be made of metal or plastic, depending on their usage. The most common types of electrical boxes in homes are 4-inch round boxes for ceiling light fixtures, single-gang boxes for basic outlets and switches, and double-gang boxes for two light switches or duplex receptacle outlets.

Can I use a regular outlet outside?

In accordance with the National Electrical Code, all outdoor outlets are required to be GFCI outlets. These outlets are designed to automatically trip and turn off in the event of current leakage or short circuit, thus preventing fires and accidental shocks.

Which is better a plastic or metal outlet box?

Metal electrical boxes offer several advantages over plastic boxes, including durability, fire resistance, grounding capability, security, and versatility. They are highly durable and can withstand physical impact and environmental stress, providing long-lasting protection for electrical connections. They are fire-resistant due to their non-combustible nature, reducing the risk of fires spreading through electrical systems.

Metal boxes also serve as effective grounding points for electrical circuits, enhancing safety by providing a path for fault currents. They are suitable for secure or public installations and are compatible with various wiring methods and conduit systems.

However, metal boxes are generally more expensive than plastic boxes, making installation more challenging, especially for ceiling-mounted fixtures. They may also rust over time in humid or corrosive environments, making them conductive. Proper grounding is essential to mitigate this risk. Metal boxes can also transfer heat from electrical components, affecting sensitive devices or causing overheating in enclosed spaces.

On the other hand, plastic electrical boxes are more budget-friendly, lightweight, non-conductive, resistant to corrosion, and available in various sizes and styles. They are ideal for projects on a budget and are suitable for damp or humid environments.

How do you waterproof an outdoor outlet box?

To ensure the safety of your outdoor electrical box, choose a secure location, ensure children and pets cannot reach it, use a waterproof box, seal and insulate all wires and connections, and use a weatherproof electric outlet cover. Regularly check and replace damaged parts, and avoid using power tools near the box. If you have experience with chemicals, consider sealing the box with waterproof sealant. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the box dry and enjoy the sound of sparks in the rain.

Are plastic electrical boxes flammable?

PVC electrical boxes are non-flammable and do not present a significant health risk under most circumstances, as they are supported by other combustible materials.

Do outdoor outlets need to be waterproof?

The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires all outdoor receptacles to be weather-resistant and equipped with weatherproof covers to withstand rainy and snowy environments. These covers must also shield cords when not in use. It is important to exercise caution when installing outdoor outlets in your home, as not all outlets are the right type. To ensure proper operation, contact professional electricians for electrical repair or installation needs. Tru-Line offers professional assistance, and you are fine with their services.

What are the rules for exterior outlets?

Outdoor receptacles must be protected by ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) systems, with exceptions for snow-melting or deicing equipment. These protections can be provided by GFCI receptacles or circuit breakers. Homes should have at least one outdoor receptacle at the front and rear of the house, accessible from the ground and no more than 6 1/2 feet above grade. Attached decks and balconies with interior access should have a receptacle no more than 6 1/2 feet above the deck or balcony walking surface.

Receptacles in damp locations must be weather-resistant and have a weatherproof cover, while those exposed to weather must be weather-resistant and have a weatherproof “in-use” cover. A permanent swimming pool must have an electrical receptacle no closer than 6 feet and no further than 20 feet from the closest edge of the pool, with GFCI protection. Receptacles used to power pump systems on pools and spas must be no closer than 10 feet from the inside walls of a permanent pool, spa, or hot tub if not-GFCI protected, and no closer than 6 feet from the inside walls if GFCI protected.

Rules for outdoor lighting are primarily about using fixtures rated for use in damp or wet locations. Light fixtures in wet/exposed areas must be listed for wet locations, while fixtures in damp areas must be listed for damp locations. Surface-mounted electrical boxes must be raintight/weatherproof, and low-voltage lighting systems must be listed by an approved testing agency. Switches controlling pool or spa lights or pumps must be located at least 5 feet from the outside walls of the pool or spa unless separated by a wall.

Are outdoor outlets safe in the rain?

To ensure safety when using electrical outlets, avoid wet areas and install them in areas where they won’t get wet. Cover outlets with protective barriers to prevent water damage, but avoid installing them near pools or hot tubs to avoid electrocution. Train children to keep water away from the outlet.

Use outdoor extension cords instead of indoor cords, as indoor cords are less durable and don’t channel energy safely. Outdoor cords are more durable and thicker, preventing fraying.

Before using an electrical outlet, inspect cords for nicks and cuts that may expose the inner wiring. Always untangle cords carefully, even if running short on time, to avoid hazards.

In summary, it’s essential to avoid using electrical outlets near water sources, using indoor cords for outdoor purposes, and examining cords for potential hazards. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your electrical equipment.