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- Select the right kind of outdoor outlet. National Electrical Code REQUIRES the use of ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets for safety.
- Ensure proper installation.
- Add a weatherproof cover.
- Don't assume safety.
Consequently, how do you protect outdoor outlets from rain?
A: There is no need to be afraid of the rain. The outlet you are using should be GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protected. The GFCI outlet may be at that location or upstream of that location, or you may have a GFCI breaker in your main electrical panel.
Considering this, should outdoor electrical outlets be covered?
Install an outlet on the exterior of your house so that you can more easily light your yard and power your tools. Outdoor outlets have watertight covers that allow them to stay covered even with a cord plugged in. The National Electrical Code requires the use of ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets outdoors.
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.