Is an Outdoor Electrical Box Safe?

Is an Outdoor Electrical Box Safe

The weather in Southern California is mostly dry and the area experiences periods of drought for much of the year. While the region doesn’t get a lot of rain, it’s still important to learn about outdoor electrical box safety. While this type of electrical box is convenient to have and generally safe, misuse can result in severe injury. 

The experts at Electrical Express Services are here to help you learn more about how to stay safe if your home has an exterior electrical box. We’ll discuss some dangers to be aware of, along with helpful safety tips.

Understanding the Potential Dangers of Outdoor Electrical Boxes

An outdoor or exterior electrical box supplies electricity to homes and businesses via underground conduits. Power transmission lines, however, deliver electricity from above ground. Therefore, people have direct access to these outdoor electrical boxes, which can result in injuries if proper safety protocols aren’t followed, especially if there’s water nearby or someone places an object inside the box.

Some of these potential dangers include:

  • Burns, shocks, and electrocution: These can occur if you open an outdoor electrical box without the right knowledge or if it’s wet/water is nearby.
  • Electrical faults and fires: Water can create electrical hazards outdoors due to short-circuiting and arc faults. Combustible materials stored near faulty electrical components are easy to ignite when connected via electrical arc, leading to electrical fires.
  • Weather exposure: Outdoor electrical components exposed to the weather deteriorate over time, increasing the risk of electrical shock hazards outdoors.
  • Debris and build-up: Dust, debris, dirt, insects, and small animals can damage outdoor electrical boxes if they’re not protected.
  • Overloaded circuits: Powering too many outdoor appliances or outdoor lighting fixtures can overload circuits, causing them to overheat.
  • Damaged or faulty outlets: Damage to outdoor outlets that go unrecognized or ignored is one of the leading causes of fires and electrocutions.

Signs Your Outdoor Electrical Box May Be Unsafe

Here are a few key signs that your outdoor electrical box might be unsafe:

  • Frequent tripped breakers: If your circuit breakers seem to trip frequently, it may be a sign that a circuit is overloaded or you have an old or damaged breaker box.
  • Flickering lights: When outdoor lights flicker or dim, it’s usually a sign of a serious electrical issue lurking under the surface, particularly if this occurs when you turn outdoor appliances on and off. 
  • Burning smells: A strong burning smell from a breaker box indicates a serious issue with the electrical system.
  • Damage: Visible damage, such as rust, corrosion, or burn marks, means your exterior electrical box needs attention from an experienced electrician as soon as possible.
  • Loose outlets: Loose electrical outlets pose a fire hazard due to wiring connection issues.
  • Cracked faceplate: A cracked faceplate can expose the wiring behind it, creating a serious fire hazard. 

outdoor or exterior electrical box

Essential Safety Measures for Outdoor Electrical Boxes

Most outdoor switches and outlets are located inside small boxes that are attached to the exterior walls of your home. These outlets and boxes are generally as safe as indoor outlets, but there are some essential safety measures you should follow.

Weatherproofing

Weatherproof covers and enclosures keep the elements out of your electrical box, and special corrosion-resistant components improve durability while protecting against shock. Weather-resistant receptacles are recommended because they can tolerate humidity, rain, ice, and snow. 

Use a weatherproof electrical box and outlets with a cover or weatherproof shield. Keep the cover closed when you’re not using the outlet, and simply flip the cover up to access the sockets and plug devices in.

GFCI outlet installation

Install GFCI outlets (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) that are built into the outdoor electrical outlet. They automatically shut off the outlet if a ground fault is detected to prevent electricity from sparking, which could reach nearby conducting materials or people/pets that could be seriously hurt.

Say no to extension cords

Avoid using an extension cord outside. Using the wrong type of cord can create serious issues. Never use indoor extension cords since they’re not suitable for outdoor conditions and don’t have the capacity required to provide power to heavy-duty power tools, lawn equipment, and other items you’d plug in outside.

Don’t overload your circuits

Most homes don’t have a lot of outdoor outlet boxes, so it’s important not to overload them. You might want to plug several items into one outlet, but doing so is very dangerous. Overloaded outlets may cause a fire or electrical damage. Extension cords increase the risk of an overloaded outlet and create a potential trip hazard as people try to walk over the cord.

Stay water conscious 

Never place outlet boxes or anything electrical near a water source like a pool, fountain, pond, or any outdoor area prone to flooding. Remember, electricity and water are a dangerous mix!

Keep area clear

Don’t block outdoor electrical outlets and keep all exterior electrical areas clear at all times. These outlets can easily be obstructed by trash, boxes, piles of firewood, trees, or shrubbery.

When to Call an Electrician

When is it time to call an electrician if you have concerns about outdoor electrical box safety? An experienced electrician makes sure your home has safe outdoor electrical connections and that you’re using the right outdoor switches. Look for problems such as sparking, buzzing, flickering lights, a burning smell, or if your exterior electrical outlet feels warm to the touch. If any of these warning signs apply to you, contact an electrician immediately.

Contact the Experts at Express Electrical Services

At Express Electrical Services, we offer same-day service and are available around the clock to help. If you need a new outdoor electrical outlet installed or a GFCI outlet repair, we’ll provide high-quality service with a focus on safety. Contact us today to find out more or to request an appointment for service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I ensure my outdoor electrical box is safe and up to code?

Most homeowners don’t know whether their outdoor electrical box is safe or up to code. Consult a licensed electrician to verify and make the necessary changes to keep you safe.

Can I install an outdoor electrical box myself, or do I need to hire an electrician?

You may be able to install an outdoor electrical box yourself. However, it’s not recommended because you risk starting a fire or suffering a serious injury like an electrical shock. It’s best to hire a licensed electrician to install your new outdoor outlet so it’s safe and up to code.