Receptacle Cover

[bededog]

I have two power strips plugged in behind my tank stand. The power strips are each in their own tupperware container. I cut out small holes along the top edge of each container to run cords into them and then put the lids back on. This way I can run the cords down to the floor and back up to these containers. This way all of the cords/plugs/power strips are protected and dry. I was wondering if anyone has an idea of how to protect the receptacle? Some type of covering that will keep water from going in?
Thanks
PS Is this right? R-E-C-E-P-T-A-C-L-E

 

[bededog]

I forgot to mention that about a week ago my wife woke me up and said "do you smell smoke?" That was scary. Water had somehow ran down the heater cord into the power strip and fried the strip, the heater, and thank God a fuse blew before the whole place went up in smoke. Worst thing is the tank is in our 1 year old son's room. He didn't even wake up through the whole thing but I didn't sleep very well for a few nights worrying that it would happen again. Anyway, I think that problem is solved.

 

[koolaid]

I would consider installing a GFCI.

 

[shanev]

I do something similar to your box , but I mount the box higher than floor level, trthen I create a drip loop on the cords. Basically run the cords down below the outlet strip then back up to the strip. If any water follows the cord it will only go to the lowest point of the drip loop and avoid the plugs.

 

[bededog]

Yeah, that is what I do to. All cords have drip loops before they go up to the boxes.

 

[birdy]

They sell these baby proofing things that cover the entire receptacle while still allowing you to have things plugged into it. Is that what you are looking for, I don't think they are neccessarily water proof but they would keep it safe from a splashing incident, I would also highly recommend a GFCI.

 

[bededog]

Thanks Birdy. I didn't even think of that. It just so happens that I have a bunch of them. Had to baby proof the house a few months ago when the little one went mobile on us. I bought extra of everthing and didn't do anything with that receptacle because it was behind a dresser. I will put it on this evening.

 

[skirrby]

you can get waterproof covers for your receptical(sp? i know im a electrican and i cant even spell that lol) just look at home depot you should find them w/o any trouble.. i install them all the time at work on all the outside plugs, doesnt take but a min longer than a normal plate.. they wont normally be pretty though. hth

 

[beckzilla]

Definitely go with either GFCI outlets or breaker!