Opening an outdoor outlet cover allows you to access the electrical wiring and outlets protected inside. Outdoor outlets are enclosed in weatherproof covers to prevent moisture, dirt, and bugs from getting inside. Knowing how to safely open these protective covers is important for inspecting, maintaining, or replacing outdoor electrical fixtures.

Gather Needed Supplies

Before attempting to open an outdoor outlet cover, gather the following recommended supplies:

• Phillips or flathead screwdriver, depending on screw type
• Voltage tester to check for power
• Headlamp or flashlight to see inside enclosure
• Gloves for hand protection

Make sure you have the proper screwdriver for the screws used on the cover plate. A voltage tester is an important safety precaution to avoid getting shocked by live wires. A light source allows you to inspect the interior of the enclosure once opened. Sturdy gloves further protect your hands when removing the cover.

Turn Off Power Source

Opening an outdoor outlet risks exposure to live wires, so always turn off the power first. Locate the circuit breaker box inside the home that controls the outdoor electrical circuit. Turn the correct breaker to the “off” position to cut power to the outlet.

Test that the power is off by plugging in a voltage tester or outlet tester. The tester should indicate no electricity present. If it still shows live power, the right breaker may not have been switched off.

Trying to open a cover with the power still on poses a serious risk of electrocution. Always double-check with a tester that the power is disconnected. Consider locking out the circuit breaker while the cover is off as an extra precaution against accidental reactivation.

Unscrew the Cover Plate

With gloves on for protection, use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the weatherproof cover plate in place. Outdoor covers typically use between four to six screws. The screws may be Phillips-head or a hex/Allen type.

Carefully unscrew each one a few turns until loosened enough to detach the cover plate. Be aware that the cover may be stuck on due to built-up dirt or corrosion. Apply slow, steady force to break it free if needed.

Inspect the Interior

Shine a flashlight inside to examine the outlet enclosure. Look for any signs of moisture, dirt accumulation, corrosion on the wiring, or damage by insects. Make note of any concerning conditions.

If there is standing water or evidence of leaks inside the box, the outdoor outlet enclosure may need resealing to prevent future water incursion. Corroded wires, damaged insulation, or excessive dirt buildup can also indicate potential hazards needing correction.

Make Needed Repairs

Use this opportunity with the cover off to make any necessary repairs to the outlet wiring or enclosure:

• Clean out dirt or debris with a brush or vacuum
• Replace corroded, damaged, or faulty wires
• Add extra weatherproofing like silicone caulk if leaks are found
• Install a new ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet for added protection
• Upgrade to a bubble cover for improved weather resistance

Consult an electrician if you are uncomfortable making electrical repairs yourself. Only perform work you are qualified to do safely.

Replace the Cover

Once inspections and any repairs are complete, replace the weatherproof cover. First, remove any old caulk or putty from the back edge of the outlet box. Apply fresh waterproof silicone caulk to seal it.

Position the cover plate back over the outlet box. Insert the screws into each corner hole and tighten down with a screwdriver. Do not overtighten. The cover should be snug but not crushed against the box.

If the cover has a foam gasket, make sure it sits evenly all around the perimeter of the box without getting pinched or twisted. This gasket helps prevent moisture intrusion.

Finally, turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power. The outlet should now be sealed up with the protective cover reinstalled correctly. Test that it functions properly before leaving.

Safety Tips

Working with electrical wires requires caution. Keep these safety tips in mind when opening outdoor outlets:

• Turn off the power at the breaker box before starting work
• Retest outlets with a voltage tester to confirm electricity is off
• Only open outlet covers when necessary for maintenance or repairs
• Avoid working on outlets while it is raining or the enclosure is wet
• Wear insulating gloves in case of accidental contact with live wires
• Never leave an open outlet unattended to prevent tampering
• Have GFCI protection to help prevent electrocutions
• Know when to call a professional electrician for assistance

Exercising proper precautions when accessing outdoor electrical boxes reduces the chances of electrical hazards or injury. Use good judgment when opening covers to keep yourself and your home safe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening Outdoor Outlet Covers

Here are answers to some common questions about how to properly open outdoor electrical enclosures:

How do I remove the screws on a stuck outdoor cover plate?

If the cover plate screws are stuck, apply penetrating oil and let it soak in for 15-30 minutes. Tap them gently with a hammer to break the bond. Use a screwdriver that fits snugly. Apply slow steady force when turning the screwdriver to back the screws out.

What kind of screwdriver do I need for outdoor outlets?

Most outdoor covers use Phillips-head screws, although some may require an Allen/hex screwdriver. Inspect the screw heads first and use a screwdriver that correctly matches to avoid stripping them.

Why does my outdoor outlet have no power after I removed the cover?

Opening the cover will not directly cause a loss of power. However, if wires came loose, breakers tripped, or moisture got in while the cover was off, it could lead to an outage. Check connections and reset breakers first before assuming permanent damage occurred.

Do I need to turn off indoor breakers too when working on outdoor outlets?

Yes, you should turn off the indoor breaker that controls any outdoor circuits you’ll be accessing just to be fully cautious. The outdoor outlets may continue receiving backup power unless indoor breakers also switched off.

Is it safe to open my outdoor outlet when it’s raining?

No, it’s best to avoid taking off the cover during wet conditions. Wait for dry weather before performing any inspection of outdoor outlets when possible. Keeping moisture out of the electrical system is crucial.

How can I improve my outdoor outlet cover’s water sealing?

Applying fresh silicone caulk around the outlet box before reattaching the cover ensures a watertight seal. Also examine the cover gasket for any gaps or damage that could let in moisture, and replace it if compromised.

Can I upgrade my old outdoor outlet to be weatherproof?

Yes, you can either replace the existing outlet and cover with new watertight versions, or purchase a weatherproofing kit to improve their sealing. GFCI outlets also add protection from electrical faults for outdoor circuits.

How often should I inspect my outdoor outlets?

Industry experts recommend inspecting outdoor electrical systems at least annually, and more frequently if located in severe weather climates. Routinely check for damage, moisture issues, corrosion, and other safety hazards.

How can I childproof my outdoor electrical outlets?

Install tamper-resistant outlets which have a built-in shutter system to prevent children from inserting objects into the slots. Weatherproof covers also provide additional protection and deter access. Keep outlets locked when not in use.

Opening outdoor outlet covers is a basic task many homeowners need to perform for regular maintenance. Following proper safety procedures and using the right tools reduces the risk of electrical hazards. Carefully inspecting the internal wiring while the power is off allows you to catch any issues before they become serious problems. With some basic DIY skills, you can keep your exterior outlets in good working order.

Conclusion

Opening an outdoor outlet cover is necessary to inspect, maintain, or repair enclosed electrical wiring and fixtures. Always turn off power at the main circuit breaker before attempting to remove the cover plate. Use proper hand and eye protection along with insulated tools when working. Check for damage, moisture, dirt, or corrosion issues while the cover is off and make any needed fixes. Reseal the outlet box and securely replace the cover plate when finished. Following safety precautions such as testing for live voltage, wearing gloves, and calling an electrician for major repairs, allows you to open outdoor outlets without getting injured. Proper maintenance keeps your outdoor electrical system in good working order.