Outdoor electrical outlets
Placing an outlet outdoors requires more precautions that indoor one, mainly because outdoors there is a higher possibility of receptacle being exposed to water and humidity. These precautions include:
- All outdoor outlets should have GFCI (Ground Failure Circuit Interrupt) - protection against shock, which detects leaks from the electrical circuit and breaks it.
- Waterproof cover to prevent water entering into the outlet.
- 3 prong outlet and plug. Many electrical devices intended for outdoor use have three-prong plugs, which offer enhanced protection against electrical shock.
Before using any electrical product outdoors make sure it is intended for this and does not have mention in instruction manual or label "Not for Outdoor Use" or "Indoor Use Only". Double check all cords and plugs when mounting outlet outdoors.