What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Less Than Extra-Duty Rated!
Hint: Less than extra-duty rated
This installer did a great job of choosing the correct type of receptacle. It’s a weather resistant (WR), GFCI-type receptacle as required by Sec. 406.9(B)(1). Unfortunately, the installer did not do a great job of selecting the correct cover. That is probably why part of the cover is missing. Section 406.9(B)(1) requires outlet box hoods to be identified a “extra-duty” rated for this application. The installer also never bothered to remove the pry-outs or notches for the cord to pass through when the cover is installed and tightly closed. Now this receptacle is directly exposed to rain, snow, and all the other damaging elements that mother nature can throw at it. For a few extra dollars and a couple more minutes of his time, this installer could have had an installation that was completely Code-compliant. Instead, he ended up a with an installation a little less than Code-compliant, and a lot more likely to have an equipment failure from water or moisture damage.
About the Author
Russ LeBlancRuss LeBlanc
Owner
Russ started in the electrical trade as an apprentice in 1985. He worked his way up to become a Journeyman Electrician and then eventually became a Master Electrician and Licensed Construction Supervisor. In 1999 Russ become an Electrical Instructor for The Peterson School of Engineering in Massachusetts where he developed his passion for teaching, and quickly became Department Head of Electrical Instruction. Russ has taught thousands of apprentices, electricians, engineers, inspectors, and other electrical professionals during his career as an instructor. He continues to provide electrical professionals with Electrical Code seminars, Arc-Flash Awareness training seminars and educational material through his LeBlanc Consulting Services in North Reading, MA whose specialty is educating electricians. He has been an active member of the NFPA Electrical Section and has authored hundreds of National Electrical Code proposals and comments which have become Code rules to improve the safety for the electrical industry. Russ is also an IAEI certified Electrical Inspector.
Please visit www.russleblanc.net for more information.