Outdoor weatherproof power points

Why indoor points don't belong outside

A standard indoor power point isn't designed for rain, garden hoses, dust or salt air. Water getting into an outlet can cause tripping, corrosion and in the worst case, electric shock. That's why outdoor locations need a weatherproof power point designed for the job.

What makes a power point weatherproof

Outdoor power points sit inside a sealed housing, usually with a hinged lid that closes over the outlet. Many have a lid that can be closed while a plug is in use. The rating to look for is the IP rating, which tells you how well it resists dust and water.

IP56 or IP66 are common choices for outdoor outlets exposed to the weather. A higher number means better protection against water. Like any rated product, it only works if installed correctly, with sealed cable entries and the lid closed when not in use.

Where people want them

• Patios and alfresco areas, for heaters, fans, speakers and lights.
• Near the barbecue or an outdoor kitchen.
• In the garden, for pond pumps, garden lights and power tools.
• At the front of the house, for pressure washers and Christmas lights.
• In the carport or driveway, for vacuuming the car.
• Near the pool, for equipment and cleaning gear, with strict rules on placement.

Height and position

Mount outdoor points high enough to avoid splashing and hoses, and where they won't get knocked by bins or lawnmowers. Under the cover of an eave or patio roof is ideal. Avoid positions where water pools or sprinklers hit the wall directly.

Pools and spas

Pool areas have specific rules on how close power points can be to the water and what protection they need. These rules exist for good reasons. Pool equipment, pumps and heaters should be planned as part of a proper outdoor power layout. Our pool and outdoor power page covers this work. Customers have told us we've done power for a new pool along with garden lights in one job.

Safety switch protection

Every outdoor circuit should be protected by a safety switch, also called an RCD. If a fault happens, the RCD cuts power in a fraction of a second, which can be the difference between a nasty fright and a serious injury. In older homes, the outdoor points may not be protected at all. Our safety switches page explains why every circuit should be covered.

Coastal conditions

Homes near the water in Shell Cove, Kiama or Gerroa cop salt air that's hard on outdoor fittings. Choose quality products, check the lid seals now and then, and replace anything with cracked housings or corroded terminals. A point that trips the safety switch after rain is telling you something.

Extension leads are not a fix

Running a lead out through a window or door is common but not great. The lead can get crushed, damaged or wet, and the door can't close properly. A permanent weatherproof outlet is safer and neater.

Installation

Adding an outdoor power point involves running a cable from an existing circuit or a new one, mounting the weatherproof outlet and testing it with the safety switch. In many homes it's a straightforward job. If the outlet will run something heavy, like a spa heater, pool pump or outdoor kitchen appliance, it may need its own circuit, and we'll check the switchboard has room for it before starting.

Let's get power outside

Our power point installs page covers indoor and outdoor points.

Call or text Kalani on 0424 400 346. A photo of where you'd like the outdoor point helps us plan the cable run.