When electrical receptacles are installed outdoors or in wet locations, protecting them from moisture is critical to maintaining safety and reliability. That's where while-in-use covers play an important role.
Understanding While-In-Use Covers and NEC Requirements
What Is a While-In-Use Cover?
A while-in-use cover is designed to protect receptacles from rain, moisture, dust, and other environmental elements while a cord and plug remain connected. Unlike standard weatherproof covers that only protect a receptacle when it is not in use, these covers help maintain protection even during operation.
What Does the NEC Require?
The National Electrical Code® (NEC®) requires 15- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250-volt receptacles installed in wet locations to be protected with an enclosure that is weatherproof whether or not a plug is inserted. This means that receptacles subject to weather exposure typically require a while-in-use cover to help maintain code compliance and enhance electrical safety. For the receptacles covered by NEC 406.9(B)(1), an outlet box hood used to provide protection must be listed and identified as extra duty.
Why It Matters
Choosing the right while-in-use cover can help:
- Protect electrical connections from moisture and debris
- Reduce the risk of corrosion and equipment damage
- Support NEC compliance in outdoor and wet-location installations
- Increase long-term reliability in multiple types of environments
Leviton Solutions
Leviton offers a variety of weatherproof and extra-duty while-in-use covers designed for multiple applications. Available in various configurations and sizes, these covers are engineered to provide durable protection for receptacles in challenging environments, helping contractors and facility managers maintain safe, code-compliant installations.
Protect Outdoor Power with Confidence
Whether you're installing receptacles at commercial buildings, industrial facilities, construction sites, or outdoor workspaces, selecting the proper while-in-use cover is an important part of a safe and reliable electrical system. Explore Leviton's weatherproof solutions to help keep your installations protected and compliant.