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Installing Outdoor Outlets

Outdoor Outlets
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Outdoor Electrical Outlet Installation

Life is easier with electricity. Sadly, most homes only have a few outdoor outlets. (Or, if you have an older home, you may not have any!) Having an outdoor outlet can help you cut back on the need for extension cords and increase the ability to use power tools without disruption.

The team at C.M. Mose can help you with this and any other residential electrical project.

Benefits of Outdoor Outlets 

Adding outdoor outlets to your home can increase safety and convenience. There are several benefits a new exterior outlet can provide, including:

  • Decreased need for extension cords. In turn, decreasing the risk of tripping over the cord or causing an electrical fire by overloading the circuit.
  • More options for entertaining. Spending time in the backyard is a must in the summer and plugging in outdoor lights or keeping a cold drink in a mini fridge nearby can help make entertaining your friends and family more convenient.
  • Holiday lighting is simpler with access to outdoor outlets.
  • Convenient outlets make it easy to use power tools for outdoor projects.

Common Questions About Outdoor Outlet Installation

For the most part, an outdoor outlet is just like any other electrical outlet. However, there are a few common questions homeowners have about exterior outlets.

Do Outdoor Outlets Need to Be GFCI?

A GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) is the required type of outlet for outdoor applications. The National Electrical Code requires GFCI for outdoor outlets for safety reasons. These outlets are required in any area where moisture is a concern since water plus electricity results in a risk of electrocution. You most often see them in bathrooms or kitchens, but outdoor outlets, which are exposed to the weather, should also be GFCI.

Do Outdoor Outlets Need Covers?

Since they’re exposed to rain and humidity, outdoor outlets should always have covers. You can find a weatherproof outdoor electrical outlet cover for your exterior outlets. These will keep the outlets dry while still ensuring that you can easily access the outlet.

There are a few different types of outlet covers. Some cover the entire outlet, while others are basically outlet-sized “doors” that cover each outlet individually. The type you choose should be determined by how you’ll be using the outlet.

Do Outdoor Outlets Need to Be on Their Own Circuit? 

Outdoor outlets don’t have to be on their own circuit, but you and your electrician might decide that it’s best to install an outdoor outlet on its own circuit. You and your electrician might decide to run outdoor outlets on their own circuit if you want to avoid having too many things running on one circuit, or if you think you might add more outdoor outlets at some point.

Kansas City Electricians

Ready to improve your home and meet your outdoor electrical needs? Whether you need outdoor outlet installation or help with any other electrical job, the team at C.M. Mose & Son is here to help! If you have questions about this process, please contact our team at 816-339-5190.

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