What type of electrical box should I use when I replace an outlet? It is an

L

Lee Gatlin

New member
outdoors outlet.? I am replacing some damaged siding, and the old outlet (GFCI) was flush with the siding, with a weatherproof cover on it. The old box was damaged. I was wondering if there is any advantage to plastic or metal since the box itself would be embedded in the wall with a weatherproof cover on it. It will be exposed to the elements. Thanks.
I've got the thing Lic. Electrician showed me ordered. I've got a metal box to use in the meantime. However, there's no grounding screw in it. I know I can get a grounding screw, but where do I put it? It's just a standard metal remodeling/old work box, with a couple of cable clamps in the back. The old box I'm replacing didn't have a ground screw either, and the ground wire was only attached to the GFCI receptacle.
 
Try the Arlington DBVR1W (white cover) or DBVR1C (clear cover). If you have step siding, use the DBVR131W (or DBVR131C).

You may or may not be able to find these at the big box DIY stores. If not, try an electrical wholesale supplier. Most of them carry them now.

http://www.arlcatalog.com/Weatherproof/Low%20Profile%20IN%20BOX%20for%20Flat%20Surface%20Retrofit%20Construction.htm


Clarification:

The box that I have shown is everything. It is it's own electrical box. When complete, the receptacle is actually recessed into the wall. It has a flat appearance. It meets the current code requirements for 'weatherproof while in use'. There is no separate box to buy. It even comes with romex connector, a putty-type rope for sealant (very effective too), and stainless steel mounting screws.

Much nicer finished appearance than the traditional "bubble covers". That's why I prefer to use them. My customers generally like them too.

Ground Update:

There are usually some holes in the back of the box. Unless it is a really old box, one will be slightly smaller than the rest. It will probably be tapped with screw threads. This is where the ground screw goes. The ground screw will be a 10-32 thread.
 
Looks like "Lic. Electrician" bet me to it. (again) Hope you vote him best answer. Why? I, too, have used those "Arlington" boxes and I LOVE them! Easy to install and when you're done, you don't have that "bulge sticking out" AND what's most important, you meet the new 2011 National Electrical Code for "in-use" requirements. The customer's like them as well. AFTER I show them what the other option looks like. Example:


http://www.hardwarestore.com/pop-print/larger-image.aspx?prodNo=40062
 
Normally I don't recommend something first without trying but I was impressed with the link Lic. Electrician posted. It's UL approved which is what any electrical buyer and/or installer should always look for. No exceptions. Secondly it looks really nice.

As for the type of box, technically it's inside the wall and not exposed. Just the exterior facial is exposed. So really nothing special about the box. Just get the cheapest one.
 
you can use either type of box in the wall. if it is metal, you will need to hook the ground wire of your feed to the box as well as the outlet. also if it is an exterior application the outlet needs to be a G.F.I. outlet.(ground fault interupter) you will also need to reinstall a weather proof cover over it. it doesn't matter though which type box you use.
 


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