Circuit tester
Exterior outlet
Weatherproof outlet box
Measuring tape
Pencil
Power drill/driver and bits
Fish tape
Tape
Galvanized screws
Caulk and caulking gun
Cable
Staples
Cable ripper
Multipurpose tool
Utility knife
Long-nose pliers
Screwdriver
Installing an outdoor outlet is similar to doing it indoors, but it's done with special weatherproof components and in many regions must include ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection. Run the power either from an existing house circuit that is GFCI protected or plan to install a GFCI outlet outdoors. Wiring run outside the building must be shielded from exposure, typically in metal conduit. Weatherproof outlets can be attached to the side of your house, screwed to a deck post, or left freestanding. Generally, local codes require that outdoor wiring be protected by rigid metal or intermediate metallic conduit (IMC) whenever it is installed above ground. Most codes allow buried cable to be Type UF (underground feeder); some require that Type TW (thermoplastic, wet) wire and conduit be used. Outlet boxes are attached to the conduit with watertight compression fittings. Always check your local codes before planning an outdoor wiring project.
Turn off power to circuit before starting work and use a circuit tester to make sure power is off. If you are not comfortable installing an outdoor outlet, hire a pro. The instructions below are for installing an exterior outlet to an exterior wall; the cable has been run from a GFCI-protected circuit.
1.
Locate the Outlet
Using a measuring tape and pencil, measure and then mark the position of the outlet (Fig. 1). The outlet must be at least 4 inches above the foundation and 12 to 18 inches above ground level.
2.
Pull the Cable
Drill through the wall's rim joist, and fish the cable across the basement ceiling and through the hole, bringing it to the outside (Fig. 2). Caulk around the opening to seal out the weather and bugs.
3.
Install the Box
Pull the cable through a knockout in a weatherproof electrical box, and then mount the box to the wall using a power driver and screws (Fig. 3). Caulk the top edge of the box where it meets the house.
4.
Connect the Outlet
Wire the outlet to a GFCI-protected circuit. The black wire goes to the brass terminal, and the white wire goes to the silver terminal. (Fig. 4)
5.
Fasten the Outlet
Secure the outlet to the electrical box. Most exterior fittings include foam-rubber gaskets to help seal out the weather. (Fig. 5)
6.
Finish the Job
Finish by installing a weatherproof receptacle cover over the outlet (Fig. 6). They are spring-loaded and close automatically to keep out the weather. Turn power back on.
