In use cover for soffit?

[Skooterj]

Can something like this be used face down on my soffits?

https://www.menards.com/main/electrical/electrical-boxes-covers/extenders-covers-mud-rings/sigma-engineered-solutions-trade-1-gang-non-metallic-clear-while-in-use-weatherproof-cover/14414clm/p-1841405561335754-c-6427.htm?tid=-6493861923732195127&ipos=11

If not, do you guys have a suggestion for an in-use outlet cover that can be used face down?

 

[dougf]

Where exactly will it be placed? I would worry about the possibility (depending on cord orientation) for water to run into the outlet cover. I haven't been known as the smartest dude, but I would be inclined to drill a small hole on the face of the cover for water to drain (if it ever gets in) and not worry.

And actually, as I typed this I remember that I have an outlet without a cover in my soffit on the front porch facing down. The electrician (I had it placed for security cameras when the place was built) didn't want to do it for some reason, but did and it all passed inspection. I can post a pic when I get home from work if that helps.

 

[Innovate1]

What's the point of the in use cover? Maybe you are asking what will pass inspection...I put a few outlets in soffits with covers but they weren't in use covers - thought they might come in handy for holiday lights or work on the roof but can't remember ever using them. Did the same covers on the outdoor outlets - it was 20 years ago and passed inspection. On later work I used the in use covers. If it's under a soffit I wouldn't be to worried about water getting in but code may require something. A drain hole as dougf mentioned seems like a good idea if any water does manage to get in.

 

[Skooterj]

They are on the ground facing side of my soffits. They are already installed and inspected. They are at least 10 feet above grade, and the soffits are 18 inches deep plus a 5 inch gutter, so I am not really worried about rain water other than I plan on replacing the current outlets with smart outlets and none of the smart outlet I can find are technically Water Resistant.

 

[alfredeneuman]

It's not spelled out in the Code, but a general rule for in use covers is to measure the overhang.
Anywhere below that measurement, vertically, on the wall (a 45 degree angle) requires in use covers.
Above it just needs gasketed "flip lid" covers

 

[SlappyWhite]

The in-use covers stick out quite a bit beyond the box (bulky looking) which is ugly in most cases. They are designed for horizontal or vertical mounting for wall mounted outlets. Facing down on a soffit I do not see the value add over just spring flip covers and the in-use will look awful sticking out.

 

[cybrdyke]

It seems like you've painted yourself into a corner. You want to use a product in an application that it's not really intended for and are looking at fixing that by adding another product in an application that it's not really intended for.
I'd scrap this idea and start over....
CD

 

[Innovate1]

Can you install a smart device upstream of the receptacle so you don't have to change the receptacle or have more choices?

 

[mike93lx]

I used one of the clear plastic in use covers in a soffit at my last house. It was on the back near a sliding door and didn't stand out. I used it for some lighting around a patio and had it tied to a switch inside. Worked fine and I never had an issue of water intrusion

 

[Noltz]

What about what this guy did, second picture in the article;

How to supply power outside under soffit

See photo in post. I want to install a camera and flood light under the roof soffit. The soffit area in the attic is very difficult to access. Also I want to be able to replace the camera easily si...

diy.stackexchange.com

 

[Juiced06GTO]

It was dark when I took this pic so I apologize for the quality, but I used this in my soffit.

 

[firebirdparts]

if you need a cover, it sure seems like old-timey spring covers would be ideal.

 

[Bucko]

Can you install a smart device upstream of the receptacle so you don't have to change the receptacle or have more choices?

This would be my choice as well. Since they are exterior outlets I would think they would be on a GFI and hopefully its upstream in the garage. Around here the morning dew and condensation takes a toll on outlets and usually they run a regular one outside with a upstream GFI inside the garage.