The Best Way To Install An Outdoor Outlet, According To Our Expert

Outdoor outlets serve as a reliable power source for speakers, lighting, and tools to help maximize your outdoor living space. However, many homeowners have none or very few throughout their home's exterior. If this applies to you, it might be time to install an outdoor outlet to make your life a little easier. While speaking exclusively to House Digest, Dan Mock, VP of Operations of Mister Sparky, revealed the best way to do this. The expert explained that you will need to follow code requirements, turn off the power prior to installation, connect the wiring, and test the outlet once it's installed.

You will likely find that the labor required to install your own outlets is well worth it given the benefits they provide. Mock detailed a few of those himself. "Outdoor electrical outlets can be incredibly convenient for homeowners," he shared. "They allow you to power appliances and electronics outside, like garden lights, speakers, and power tools." The expert also warned that you need to be aware of the risk of hazards such as electric shock if you are considering installing your own outlets outdoors. For this reason, you should call on the help of a professional if you are not confident you can pull this off safely.

Before you can get started with installation, you'll need to purchase the right type of electrical outlet. Installing an outlet not intended for outdoor use puts you at risk of electric shock and other safety hazards. Luckily, Mock shared some guidance you should use to help you make the right decision. "Outdoor outlets should be weatherproof and should have a cover that can be closed when not in use," the expert explained while speaking exclusively to House Digest. "You should also look for outlets that have built-in ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These will automatically shut off the power if a ground fault occurs, reducing the risk of electrical shock."

In addition to purchasing the right outlet, you will need to conduct some research on your local electrical code requirements. These rules will vary depending on where you live. Mock also shared some general installation guidance to supplement those requirements. He explained that outdoor outlets typically must be installed at least 6 inches above the ground. You must also ensure to protect the outlet with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). "The National Electrical Code (NEC) also requires that outdoor outlets be installed in a weatherproof box and that the box be secured to a wall or other structure," Mock added.

After you purchase the right outlet and research your local electrical code requirements, you are ready for installation. Shutting down power to the outlet is your first step. "This can be done by turning off the circuit breaker that controls the outlet," Mock explained while speaking exclusively to House Digest. "You can also use a non-contact voltage tester to ensure that the power is off." Next, go ahead and connect the wiring. "This can be done by stripping the ends of the wires and connecting them to the corresponding terminals on the outlet," Mock advised. "Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and to tighten the terminals securely."

You will need to test the outlet as your final step once it's fully installed. To do this, plug in a device and power it on to see if it fires up as it should. If it turns on, this is confirmation that the outlet is good to go. Mock's final message is to hire an electrician if you are not comfortable with this process. He explained that a licensed professional will get the outlet installed safely. They should also be well-informed on your local codes and regulations to ensure those are met, which may put you at ease. If you are not sure how to replace an old electrical outlet yourself, you may want to rely on professional help for that as well.