Top 7 Outdoor Electrical Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Hosting a backyard BBQ is great…until someone (not just a mosquito) gets zapped.
That extra outlet your neighbor chose to install on his back patio is in the perfect location for an extra fan in the summer or a space heater in the winter.
That is if he had sealed it correctly.
Some water crept in and gave him an extra shock when he plugged in his new outdoor fan.
Don’t let that be you.
Using electrical devices outdoors comes with specific risks that every homeowner should know.
This blog will guide you through essential outdoor electrical safety tips, common mistakes to avoid, and expert advice to ensure your outdoor spaces are both functional and safe.
What You Need to Know
Understanding Outdoor Electrical Safety
Outdoor electrical safety is a critical aspect of home maintenance.
The outdoor environment presents unique challenges that you wouldn’t face indoors, including exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, and potential physical damage.
Understanding how to safely use electrical outlets and devices outdoors is crucial to preventing accidents, fires, and electric shocks.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s dive into some common mistakes homeowners make when using electrical devices outdoors and how to avoid them.
Using Indoor Extension Cords Outdoors
A frequent mistake homeowners make is using indoor extension cords outdoors.
Indoor extension cords are not designed to withstand outdoor conditions like rain, snow, or intense sunlight. Using them outside can lead to electrical shorts, fires, or even electrocution.
Proper Alternative: Invest in heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords.
These cords are specifically designed to resist moisture, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations. They’re typically labeled as “outdoor” or “weather-resistant.”
Running Extension Cords Through the Yard
It might seem convenient to run an extension cord through your yard to power garden lights or just quickly bury it underground to hide it, but these practices are fraught with risks.
Extension cords that run along the ground without protection can easily be damaged by lawnmowers, trimmers, or even foot traffic, leading to exposed wires and potential electric shock.
Extension cords buried without the necessary protection against pressure and moisture can lead to short circuits, power outages, or fires.
Proper Alternative: If you need power in a specific area of your yard, consider having a licensed electrician…
install permanent outdoor outlets where needed
bury a permanent extension properly rated underground conduit and wiring in the ground.
This eliminates the need for long extension cords, ensures a safer setup, and protects the cord from the elements and physical damage.
Using Indoor and Uncovered Outlets
Using indoor outlets outdoors or leaving outdoor outlets uncovered can create significant safety hazards.
Indoor outlets are not designed to withstand outdoor conditions such as rain, snow, or extreme temperatures. When exposed to these elements, these outlets can fail, leading to electrical shorts, fires, or even electrocution.
Similarly, uncovered outdoor outlets are highly vulnerable to moisture, which can cause ground faults, electric shocks, or fires.
Proper Alternative: If you’re using outdoor outlets, ensure they are rated for outdoor and are…
equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection
have an outlet cover for protection, even when a device is plugged in
installed with a proper seal to prevent water from seeping in
GFCI outlets are essential for outdoor electrical safety, as they are designed to shut off power if they detect an imbalance in the electrical current, protecting you from electric shock.
The covers are specifically designed to keep moisture out, ensuring that your outlets remain safe and functional.
If your outdoor outlets are outdated or you’re unsure about their safety, contact a licensed electrician to inspect and upgrade them.
Overloading Outlets
Another common mistake is overloading outdoor outlets by plugging in too many devices. This can cause the outlet to overheat, potentially leading to a fire.
It’s easy to underestimate the power requirements of outdoor equipment like pool pumps, lawnmowers, or holiday lights.
Proper Alternative: Avoid plugging too many devices into a single outlet.
If you find that you need more outlets, consider installing additional outdoor outlets.
A licensed electrician can assess your needs and ensure that your electrical system can handle the load safely.
The Risks Involved
Failing to follow outdoor electrical safety guidelines can result in serious risks, including:
Electrical Shock: Exposure to electrical current can cause severe injury or even death. Outdoor environments are particularly hazardous because of the increased likelihood of moisture, which is a conductor of electricity.
Fires: Improper use of electrical devices outdoors can lead to overheating and fires. This risk is amplified when using the wrong type of extension cords or overloading outlets.
Property Damage: Short circuits and electrical fires can cause significant damage to your home and outdoor structures, leading to costly repairs and potential loss of property.
Injury to Family and Pets: Faulty or exposed wiring can pose a danger not only to you but also to your family and pets, who may inadvertently come into contact with electrified surfaces.
When to Call a Professional
While many homeowners are comfortable handling minor electrical tasks, outdoor electrical work should always be approached with caution.
When in doubt, it’s best to consult with a licensed electrician who can assess your needs, identify potential hazards, and ensure that your outdoor electrical system is safe and compliant with local codes.
Take Electricity Outdoors with NLE
Using electricity outdoors is not something to be taken lightly.
Safety should always be your top priority.
If you’re unsure about the safety of your outdoor electrical setup or if you need professional assistance with your next project, don’t hesitate to contact New London Electric.
Our expert electricians are here to ensure that your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and ready for whatever you need.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a safer home.
FAQs
How do I know if my outdoor outlet is a GFCI outlet?
GFCI outlets have "Test" and "Reset" buttons on them, which are usually labeled.
To test if your outlet is a GFCI…
Press the "Test" button; the outlet should cut off power.
Press the "Reset" button to restore power.
If your outlet does not have these buttons, it’s likely not a GFCI outlet, and you should consider having it replaced by an electrician to enhance safety.
Is it safe to use extension cords for outdoor holiday lights?
Yes, but only if the extension cords are rated for outdoor use. Outdoor-rated extension cords are designed to withstand the elements and provide a safer option for temporary holiday lighting.
Ensure that the cords are not damaged, and avoid running them through high-traffic areas where they could be tripped over or damaged.
For more permanent outdoor lighting solutions, consider installing dedicated outdoor outlets.
What should I do if my outdoor outlet gets wet?
If your outdoor outlet gets wet, do not use it until it has been inspected by an electrician.
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and using a wet outlet can lead to electric shock or fire.
To prevent this issue in the future, make sure all outdoor outlets are equipped with weatherproof covers.
How often should I have my outdoor electrical system inspected?
It's a good idea to have your outdoor electrical system inspected at least once a year, especially before the start of the winter season when outdoor electrical use may increase.
Regular inspections by a licensed electrician can identify potential issues before they become serious problems, ensuring your outdoor electrical setup remains safe and functional.