Finding specific details about codes is some times hard and reading teh entire book is … well . a slog.
So can someone get me started.
It used to be you could use those neat and tidy flip doors (low profile) to cover outdoor outlets. I now see this huge plastic covers used. What does code say about this issue ? And terms are used to descirde these things so that I can use the terms to refine my search of the code.
Are there and exceptions in the code for under the eave applications? I sure can’t see how you can have one of those huge plastic covers up there, and really what would the point be (no rain under there). Of course asking that question is pointless regarding a lot of code stuff.
Thanks.
Replies
Outdoor Outlets
I had an electrician install an outdoor outlet on a covered outdoor landing. He routed the wire through the rim joist, up the foundation wall and terminated in a surface mounted receptacle with the big clear plastic cover. The wire was not in a conduit. I called the town inspector and asked if this was all code compliant. Inspector said that it was because the stair landing was covered.
Not sure what you mean
You say ... out the rim joist and up the foundation wall. Foundations are below the rim joist ??????
At any rate my question is, do I NEED the big ugly plastic cover or can I use teh older, low profile, flip covers?
Thanks for your input.
I meant
Sorry. Out the rim joist and up (not down) through the landing floor. I was surprised that the inspector was ok with this setup.
exterior outlet
I can't say what make and model, but my electrician installed in my last project that was flush. The deplex receptical was recessed into the outlet box with cover. IIRC it only extended about 1/2" above the finish surface.
That sounds like the ticket!
That is the ticket. If you can get details that would be great. I will try googling a bit more otherwise. Thanks.
He is probably talking about this ... if you have room in the wall.
http://www.aifittings.com/landing/weatherproof/
I put one of these (the double gang style) at the back of my house when I replaced a window with a patio door. Don't know if they're code compliant in your area; but I HIGHLY recommend them. Nice to be able to leave something plugged in and still have the cover closed. I'll be adding two more to the garage I'm building. They're pretty deep. They'll still fit in a 2x4 wall... just dont' expect to have any insulation where the box is. Good luck!
exterior outlet
Yeah, what doright said.
If this is a "damp location"
If this is a "damp location" you can use the flip cover. Personally I do not think you should need the bubble covers anywhere that you are not leaving things plugged in. I have a few at my house (pool pump, landscape lights etc) but most are flip covers. They just work better.
Come and get me copper!
The definition of "damp"
Damp Locations... protected from weather and not subject to saturation with water or other liquids but subject to moderate degrees of moisture. Examples of such locations include partially protected locations under canopies, marquees, roofed open porches, and like locations.
Under the soffit is damp.
What code? We have no idea where you live or what code you're under.
The "in use" covers you mention are now required where I live. (Central Illinois) But enforcement varies. It depends on what town you're in, and what version of the IRC they've adopted.
You need to ask your local building department and see what they say.
There is no local buildign department
however there are state inspections and asking a question there is next to impossible. Tehy will come out and inspect, but not available for questions.
Therefore I was hoping to get a feel for what is out there fore code. You answered that question partially. In you are they require teh stupid plastic BS. Ok, that might be teh case here (Idaho). I ill dig deeper.
That you for your answer as far as it goes.