Install Outdoor Outlet Covers

Installing outlet covers on outdoor outlets can be slightly trickier than those indoors. However, following some simple steps will allow you to complete the process fairly easily.

Step One - Choose the Outlet Cover Style
There are several outdoor outlet covers available, and each have advantages and disadvantages. There are “in boxes” that put the outlet back into the wall, so that the waterproof covering is flush with the wall or support and very little of the outlet cover extends past the wall.

This type of cover works well on a home or garage where there is insulation space between the outer and inner wall.

However, this may not work well for all exterior outlet covers. There may be a place where the outlet is mounted on a solid surface or thinner board where there is no room for a recessed outlet. In this case, the appropriate cover may be one that has a plastic box that extends out from the outlet and provides a small roof for the outlet.

A third style may provide for an enclosed box that allows the switch to be recessed into the box. A solid outlet cover is over the electrical box, and a lever on the outside hooks to a switch inside so that at no time is the switch exposed to the elements.

Step Two – Remove Plugs and Turn Off Power
You’ll need to turn off any power to the outlet in question if you are going to do any work on the outlet, even if it is just installing a new outlet cover.  If you are unsure as to which breaker turns the outlet off, then plug in a lamp or other device so that you can see if it turns off.

If you can’t see the outlet from the breaker box, then use a loud radio to test the outlet. When the radio turns off, you found the right breaker.

Unplug any plugs currently in the outlet.

Step 3 – Remove Old Outlet Cover
Generally this is an easy process, with the screws for the procedure exposed on the top of the outlet box. Remove the screws and remove the outlet cover.

Step 4 – Exchange Outlets if Necessary
Some older homes do not have GFCI outlets installed in their outdoor outlets, but according to modern code, there should be GFCI outlets in each outdoor box. If you don’t have GFCI outlets, then replace the old outlets.

Step 5 – Install New Outdoor Outlet Covers
Once the outlets are correct and are secure, then you can install the new cover. If you are retrofitting an inbox, this may be a slightly more complicated procedure. You’ll need to remove the old switch or outlet, install the new box with the hinged, waterproof cover flush with the wall, then reinstall the switch or outlet before you can install the sliding or flip cover for the door. Once you do this work, however, you have a secure, attractive outlet.

For other outdoor outlets, install the outlet cover first, then fit the flip down plastic cover into the hinge area.

Step 6 – Electricity
Turn the breaker back on so that you get power to the outlet. Plug in an appliance and be sure your wiring is correct and your cover closes to form a weather tight seal.