Weather Proof ("WP") Receptacles

[jonny1982]

Per Nec, is it necessary for a rooftop receptacle, for instance, a service receptacle installed on a roof top unit, to be Weather Proof (WP) rated? Or will any GFI do as long as it is in a raintight enclosure such as a heavy duty bubble cover?

Thanks

 

[kwired]

Per Nec, is it necessary for a rooftop receptacle, for instance, a service receptacle installed on a roof top unit, to be Weather Proof (WP) rated? Or will any GFI do as long as it is in a raintight enclosure such as a heavy duty bubble cover?

Thanks

Two separate requirements here, both mentioned in 406.9(B)(1). First one is the receptacle cover for 15 and 20 amp 125 and 250 volt receptacles installed in a wet location must be rated weatherproof while in use. Then it also requires same receptacles (15 and 20 amp/125 and 250 volts) in wet locations to be listed as "weather resistant" type.

Very likely your application is a wet location so both apply.

 

[Jon456]

There are "weatherproof" covers and boxes, but I don't think there are any weatherproof/WP receptacles. The receptacles I've seen are rated "weather resistant" (WR).

I've replaced enough outdoor GFCI's due to corrosion to know that the small extra upfront cost for an WR-rated receptacles (typically, just a few dollars) will save lots of money in the long run.