All You Need To Know About Electrical Outdoor Waterproof Sockets
With many people having a new found appreciation for your outdoor space, you may be noticing an increase in the number of requests for outdoor plug sockets. In this article we’ll look at why waterproof sockets are a safe, convenient choice for your customers.
What is a waterproof socket?
A waterproof plug socket is an electrical plug socket, which has been specially designed to keep water out from all directions. This makes them an excellent choice for outdoor electrics.
The IP ratings that are generally accepted as waterproof are IP65, IP66, and IP67.
Are waterproof sockets safe?
When installed correctly, waterproof sockets are very safe. We all know from a young age that water and electricity do not mix, so a reputable waterproof socket will have been subject to stringent safety checks to ensure that it is not a danger.
Many waterproof sockets have a residual current device (RCD) installed as part of the unit. This means the plug will automatically shut off if a fault is detected. If the socket you are installing doesn’t have an RCD, one needs to be instead somewhere else on the system.
As well as this, a waterproof socket will come in a box or cover that will seal around the outlet. This will protect the plug from water and dust.
Consider hardwiring
While a waterproof socket is a convenient solution, there are some times when hardwiring an appliance might be more appropriate.
For example, if you’re installing a patio heater, then a waterproof plug will be sufficient. However, if you’re installing a hot-tub which uses 32A then it may be a better idea to hardwire this.
Can waterproof sockets be used indoors?
You may think that a waterproof socket is a solution to putting a plug in a bathroom, this isn’t necessarily the case. Some can be used in this way, but it would be clearly stated in the product description.
Otherwise, it is important that you keep to the usual limitations of keep plug sockets at least 3 meters away from a bath or shower (or not in the room at all).
If a plug socket is definitely required in a bathroom, there are specialist plugs that can do this.