What's Wrong Here?

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Exposed to the Elements

Jan. 13, 2022

Think you know how this installation violates the NEC?

This installation may have been Code-compliant at one time, but right now it has some serious problems. Section 406.9(A) requires 15A and 20A, 125V and 250V receptacles installed in wet locations to have an enclosure that is weatherproof when an attachment plug is either inserted or removed. Section 404.4 requires switches in damp or wet locations to also have a weatherproof enclosure. This enclosure is not weatherproof right now. The bubble cover has snapped off leaving the receptacles and switch exposed to the elements. Section 110.12(B) prohibits electrical equipment from having broken parts, such as this bubble cover, that may adversely affect the safe operation or mechanical strength of the equipment.

Perhaps this bubble cover, also known as an outlet box hood, broke because it was not rated as “extra duty” as required by Sec. 406.9(B)(1). One final concern is whether the receptacle is a weather-resistant (WR) type as required by Sec. 406.9(B)(1).

About the Author

Russ 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.