Use a weatherproof horizontal outlet cover in a vertical placement?

[Ryland]

Is it ok to use a cover that is marked as Horizontal like this one http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000U3G2UE/?tag=atomicindus08-20 in a vertical placement?

 

[pattenp]

I say no since it's not listed for vertical installation. Why not use a vertical cover?

 

[kamesama980]

It's not intended to be waterproof when mounted vertically. Might (not will) get water in there.

 

[Ryland]

Thats what I figured. I have vertically mounted inset boxes that arent playing well with vertical covers (there is barely enough room to get fingers in to access the outlets on the vertical covers I have found.

 

[pattenp]

How about this cover?

 

[Ryland]

How about this cover?

I wouldnt be able to get my fingers under the bottom edge since it is inset in the wall. The box I have to install it into is 3"x5" and is inset about 1/2". The only one I found is this one

but I havent found it instore or online.

 

[Gary S]

Menards has some that appear to be easy to reach even if the cover sits somewhat recessed.

http://www.menards.com/main/electri...of-duplex-cover-verticle/p-1716054-c-6432.htm
http://www.menards.com/main/electri...weatherproof-cover-white/p-1470195-c-6432.htm

 

[rlitman]

Why not just do it right, and get a code-keeper type cover?

 

[Ryland]

Menards has some that appear to be easy to reach even if the cover sits somewhat recessed.

http://www.menards.com/main/electri...of-duplex-cover-verticle/p-1716054-c-6432.htm
http://www.menards.com/main/electri...weatherproof-cover-white/p-1470195-c-6432.htm

They might be too wide. I wonder if I can grab one locally since I dont have a Menards in RI.

 

[Ryland]

Why not just do it right, and get a code-keeper type cover?

That wont fit in the inset.

 

[Gary S]

I wonder if I can grab one locally since I dont have a Menards in RI.

That *****. Life is tough when you have to live without a Menards. Lowes and Home Depot don't make even a good second best.
Your local electrical supply shops would also have what you need.

 

[pattenp]

You may have to settle on using the horizontal one. Why is the outlet box recessed? Can you post a picture of what you're dealing with?



*

 

[Ryland]

Not the best picture but what I had on hand.

 

[pattenp]

If that's vinyl siding then this is what should have been installed.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004K1G0ZO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Ryland]

If that's vinyl siding then this is what should have been installed.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004K1G0ZO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Yes it is and I agree with you. Unfortunately I didnt install the siding and didnt realize how big of a pita this was going to be.

 

[Ryland]

I wonder if the horizontal style would be ok because nothing can run down onto the cover from above due to its being inset. I probably shouldnt chance it though.

 

[where2]

Take the cover in post #5, drill two small holes in the lower corners using your smallest drill bit, add a piece of monofilament fishing line to lift the lid, and seal the holes with a dab of clear silicone.

Although not a UL approved modification, it seems much less likely to leak than the other options involving a horizontal mount used vertically.

 

[Ryland]

Take the cover in post #5, drill two small holes in the lower corners using your smallest drill bit, add a piece of monofilament fishing line to lift the lid, and seal the holes with a dab of clear silicone.

Although not a UL approved modification, it seems much less likely to leak than the other options involving a horizontal mount used vertically.

Or add a white screw/handle to it. Not a bad idea at all, thanks.

 

[MTW]

Use a "bubble cover" "1-Gang Non-Metallic Weatherproof In-Use Cover"
Install it over the inset box
Caulk it around the top and sides to the siding or trim ring opening.
leave the bottom un-caulked for drainage if it ever does leak.

This will protect the outlet while using it in the rain, not just when it's closed. It's approved for horizontal or vertical use.
These are also available in die cast for rougher use situations.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Bell-1-Gang-Non-Metallic-Weatherproof-In-Use-Cover-Clear-MM410C-8/100173013#.Um4DqBC8zfo

 

[Ryland]

I ended up using a box similar to what was previously mentioned which sticks out from the wall. My wife doesnt like it but I will hide it under her potting table.