Electricity outdoors is something that most of us take for granted on a daily basis. Outside the home, garden lighting systems, surveillance cameras, electrical outlets and seasonal decorations rely on secure outdoor electrical connections. However, outdoor environments are unpredictable. Rain, humidity, dust and temperature changes can rapidly transform a non-protected electric installation into a potentially dangerous one.
An outdoor electrical box is the solution to this issue. It is, after all, shielding electrical connections from the elements and keeping people out of harm’s way. This guide details what an outdoor electrical box is, why you should care, what to look for when buying one and how to install it correctly.
An outdoor electrical box is a weatherproof enclosure that protects its contents from rain, wind, dust and dirt while preventing arcing, insulation melting or other possible hazards. Indoor electrical boxes are typically made to protect against dust, debris and other substances found in the environments indoors, but outdoor options are constructed to fight off those as well as moisture, corrosion and more.
These boxes are commonly used for:
· Exterior power outlets
· Outdoor lighting fixtures
· Landscape and garden lighting
· Security cameras and sensors
An outdoor electrical enclosure provides an extra measure of protection for cable and other connections against water exposure, accidental contact, and failure. Without it, outdoor wiring can deteriorate rapidly and become dangerous.
Electricity used outside must be most carefully confined. Outdoor electrical enclosures are essential for maintaining the integrity of an electrical system.
Weather protection is among their most important purposes. Electrical connections can erode and short out due to rain and humidity. A well-installed outdoor electrical box keeps moisture at bay and shelters sensitive parts.
Exterior electrical boxes also help to prevent shock and fire. Containing wiring and connections, they reduce the risk of accidental contact and protect enclosed wires from disruptions, which allows for optimal electrical performance. Many jurisdictions have building and electrical codes that demand these boxes for outdoor applications, so they're also compliance- and safety-focused products.
And outdoor electrical boxes shall have the superior resistance to sunlight, extreme temperatures and high impacts that is necessary for long-term outdoor Use.
Outdoor Electrical Boxes there are various types of outdoor electrical boxes, so you'll want to find the one that meets your specific needs.
Surface-mount boxes are the easiest to find. They fasten directly to an exterior wall, making them ideal for installing outlets and lights in existing structures. And because they are on the surface, installation is fairly simple.
Flush-mounted boxes are generally used for new construction or larger renovation projects. They sit flush with the wall for a cleaner look, but require more planning up front and modification to the wall.
Outdoor junction boxes are ideal for joining multiple wires securely. They are commonly used in landscape lighting systems or underground wiring arrangements where a wire splice would be exposed to the outside and is therefore unsafe.
The majority of outdoor outlets are also in-use covers, which means that plugs can be inserted while keeping the outlet safe from rain and debris.
An outdoor electrical box is made of a material that determines its durability, cost and appearance.
Polycarbonate or PVC plastic electrical boxes are lightweight, inexpensive and rust-proof. They are often used in home environments and for general outdoor applications.
Metal electrical boxes, which are typically constructed out of aluminum or steel, provide more durability and impact resistance. They are most commonly utilized in commercial spaces or places with high foot traffic. Outdoor Metal boxes would need to be resistant to corrosion if they are to perform well.
Impact-resistant fiberglass and is designed for severe applications. They have superior moisture/chemical resistance and tolerances for extreme temperature, but they are more costly and less popular in residential applications.
Not all outdoor electric boxes are created equal. Some are made to deal with getting a little bit wet, some can endure harsher conditions than that.
In general:
· Weatherproof boxes are designed for rain, snow, and moist protection in most outdoor applications.
· Waterproof enclosures offer better protection and are for use in applications where exposure to liquids is anticipated.
For the majority of homes, a weatherproof box and an appropriate cover should do. Installation and sealing are just as important as the rating.
Before a contractor attempts to install an outdoor electrical box, preparation is extremely important. Selecting an appropriate location will minimize exposure to standing water and facilitate access to the outlet or fixture.
You’ll also want to be sure you have the right tools and materials handy before getting started, including:
· A voltage tester
· Screwdriver and drill
· Wire stripper
· Outdoor-rated screws and sealant
· A weatherproof cover
Above all, turn off the power at the breaker before starting work on any electrical circuit and verify it with a voltage tester.
Installation: The box is initially fixed on the outer wall. The soffit panel should be flush and secured with exterior fasteners. A masonry anchor is required for brick or concrete walls.
After the box has been installed, electrical wiring is simply run into it through the appropriate openings. Cover any spare holes that might permit moisture to penetrate. Cables should be neatly organized in the box so that the space is not overfilled.
The electrical connections are then established. Wires are stripped, color-matched and securely twisted in place. Grounding is vital for outdoor installs; do NOT skip it.
Once the pre-wiring has been done, you add the outlet or fixture. Outdoor receptacles should be protected by a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) device to reduce the risk of electric shock. Finally, the box is caulked with outdoor-rated sealant around the edges and a weatherproof or in-use cover is installed.
When everything is tight, power up the system and test the installation.
Here are the typical outdoor electrical problems that involve little mistakes during installation:
· Using indoor electrical boxes outdoors
· Failing to seal gaps around the box
· Skipping grounding connections
· Overcrowding wires inside the box
Avoiding these mistakes greatly improves safety and durability.
Outdoor electrical boxes should be checked regularly. Over time, outside, the rain and UV rays can crack covers, wear out seals, or cause screws to get loose.
Regular maintenance includes:
· Checking covers for damage
· Ensuring seals remain intact
· Testing GFCI outlets periodically
If signs of corrosion or damage appear, components should be repaired or replaced promptly.
Most outdoor electrical box installations can be done by homeowners, but some will require the assistance of an industry professional. Risks can be higher with complicated wiring, unfamiliar electrical codes or installations in high moisture environments. In the following situations, it's best to hire a professional electrician.
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You might be tempted to dismiss an outdoor electrical box as an inconsequential detail, but that’s not the case. Your outdoor electrical box has a big job when it comes to keeping you and your family safe. By keeping wires dry and away from water, acid, oil or heat it creates secure and stable electrical connections and reduces potential voltage between tests.
Whether you’re adding a new outdoor outlet or remodeling an existing cabling system, it’s important to choose the right outdoor electrical box and accompanying cable protection that doesn’t make you think twice about safety regulations or compliance codes.
1. What is an outdoor electrical box used for?
An outdoor electrical box protects electrical outlets, wiring, and connections from weather, moisture, and physical damage.
2. Can I use a regular indoor electrical box outside?
No. Indoor electrical boxes are not designed to handle moisture or temperature changes and are unsafe for outdoor use.
3. Do outdoor electrical boxes need to be waterproof?
Most residential installations only require weatherproof boxes, as long as they are installed and sealed correctly.
4. Is a GFCI outlet required for outdoor electrical boxes?
Yes, GFCI outlets are recommended and often required to reduce the risk of electrical shock outdoors.
5. How long does an outdoor electrical box last?
With proper installation and maintenance, an outdoor electrical box can last 10 to 20 years or longer.
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