in use covers

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Re: in use covers

Yes. Its been in the NEC for several editions but the 2002 NEC made a substantial change, see section 406.8 Receptacles in Damp or Wet Locations.
 
Re: in use covers

I think someones getting rich off of a plastic cover worth maybe $1 and selling for almost $10

[ October 01, 2004, 05:27 PM: Message edited by: jimwalker ]
 
Re: in use covers

In-use covers are another one of those items that are easy enough to install, but no one seems to be able to use them properly.

Nearly every in-use cover that I have seen installed for longer than a few months ends up removed, and/or the cord is inserted but the cover is not completely closed.

Homeowners see them as a nuisance and I have yet to see one that is even remotely decent looking. I really wish there was a better solution.
 
Re: in use covers

I have broke some even on the install.I think in less than a year most if used at all will break.Then what we have is no better than an indoor cover.What were they really thinking ?
Now if used for the original purpose ,like water pumps or water softners then they did serve a need.Either make them better or get them back out of the code.
 
Re: in use covers

Use in an area subject to direct rain or run off for a wet location.Damp areas require them to be used when there will be a plug inserted and not usually removed like a TV on a porch/lanai.Under an eave? To me they will fill with water even if for christmas lights left plugged in.The AHJ in this area says use wp covers for this application.nothing like a plug sitting in a bowl of water ;)
 
Re: in use covers

What is the reason for these covers anyways? I completely understand certain changes and requirements, say for instance GFCI's in commercial kitchens, but what is driving this issue besides the manufacturers?

Can anyone give an instance where the old covers we used for eons were causing death, damage, or injury?

IMO, this seems to be something as bogus as the reason NM is not allowed in commercial drop ceilings.

Roger

[ October 01, 2004, 08:43 PM: Message edited by: roger ]
 
Re: in use covers

everytime i try to open the ko`s in an in use cover they crack/ break at the cost of these pieces of well lets says garbage.the intent is ok but have the ul people actually tried using them?I think not.Yeah a roto zip or a dremel would work fine, but that is so off the scale.Our purchasing agent found cheap ones that either hinge side to side or up and down to use them you have to remove/cut the hinges on the side that wont be used UL listed as universal but to me GARBAGE.yes you actually have to alter them to use them :confused:
 
Re: in use covers

hmmmm and just why do they not come with opening for the cord already removed.Should we remove them ? We all know the homeowner wont.

[ October 01, 2004, 10:00 PM: Message edited by: jimwalker ]
 
Re: in use covers

Jim that`s why you`ll see an in use cover proped open if we as electricans have trouble removing the openings how can mister H.O. do it ?
 
Re: in use covers

A min. of 3 per house one front one rear and one at the a/c unit x 2,500 homes someone is making big bucks ..... :eek:
 
Re: in use covers

The covers that Allen is describing are designed for vertical or horizontal use. If the Manufacture removed the cord holes on both sides the covers would no longer be rated for wet locations. I don?t think there is any listing problem removing the hinge or latch from one side. I personally think more water enters between the gasket and the wall with any of the covers. I have yet to open in electrical box cover (receptacle, switch or blank) installed in a wet location and not find water in the box.
 
Re: in use covers

Originally posted by roger:
What is the reason for these covers anyways? I completely understand certain changes and requirements, say for instance GFCI's in commercial kitchens, but what is driving this issue besides the manufacturers?

Can anyone give an instance where the old covers we used for eons were causing death, damage, or injury?

IMO, this seems to be something as bogus as the reason NM is not allowed in commercial drop ceilings.

Roger
Click to expand...
I strongly suspect this is something put in to sell product of dubious value. Is there any safety reason why these are used? My guess is the justification was to reduce nuisance tripping of outdoor GFCIs but every one I have ever seen has water inside it, making me wonder if they just are places to collect water.
 
Re: in use covers

I stopped using the cheap plastic covers and use the metal type. For a few extra dollars it's worth it.
 
Re: in use covers

highkvoltage with the amount of in use covers we use a year that few $ would add up to thousands and thousands with residential being so competitive that is a formula for disaster.arc fault breakers are bad enough never mind added cost of metal in use covers.I see allot of H.O. go to the big O and get regular wp covers and take the in use covers off after closing on there home.But the NEC says they have to be there for inspection so we have no choice.
 
Re: in use covers

I would like to post a photo or two about this topic, however I'm not sure how to do it. I have previewed the UBB Code and it is Greek to me. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
 
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