How to Make a Simple Outdoor Electrical Outlet from Scratch

Installing an outdoor electrical outlet is a straightforward project that can add convenience and functionality to your home's exterior. With some basic materials, tools, and safety precautions, you can install an outdoor outlet on your own in just a few hours.

Gather the Necessary Materials

Before starting, you'll need to gather the following materials:

• Weatherproof electrical box - This is a special outdoor-rated box made of durable plastic or metal. It protects the outlet and wiring from weather elements.

• Weatherproof cover plate - Choose one made of plastic or metal that fits your electrical box. It should have a domed or bubble cover to prevent water intrusion.

• GFCI outlet - Outdoor outlets must be connected to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for safety. Purchase a GFCI outlet or GFCI breaker.

• 12/2 NM cable - Use this outdoor-rated, jacketed cable to run from the power source to the outlet location. Choose a length that gives you some extra slack.

• Wire connectors - You'll need these to connect the outlet and join the wires. Get connectors rated for your cable size.

• Conduit - Optional to protect the wiring running to your new outlet. Use 1/2" PVC or metal conduit.

• Silicon sealant - Once installed, seal around the box with 100% silicon to prevent moisture intrusion.

Tools needed: Phillips screwdriver, drills, hole saw, drywall saw, cable ripper, wire strippers, multipurpose snip, marker, tape measure.

Choose an Installation Location

When choosing where to install your new outdoor outlet, keep the following in mind:

• Pick a spot on an exterior wall where an outlet would be useful, like near an outdoor seating area.

• Install it at least 12 inches above ground level so it won't get buried or become a tripping hazard.

• Make sure there are no obstructions inside the wall cavity like plumbing pipes or HVAC ducts.

• The outlet must be GFCI protected whether you use a GFCI outlet or GFCI breaker. Locate it within 6 feet of a GFCI outlet or have it connect to a GFCI-protected circuit.

• Avoid locations that will get direct water exposure from sprinklers, rain runoff, etc. The outlet must be weatherproof but you still want it in a protected spot.

Turn Off Power and Install Electrical Box

Once you've chosen the outdoor outlet location, it's time to install the electrical box:

1. Turn off power to the circuit you'll be connecting to at the main breaker panel. Verify it's off by testing with a non-contact voltage detector.

2. Put on safety goggles and cut out a hole in the exterior wall sheathing just large enough for your electrical box using a drywall saw or hole saw.

3. Run the 12/2 NM cable from the power source to the outlet box location. Keep several extra feet for slack. Use conduit if desired for added protection.

4. Secure the outdoor electrical box into the wall opening using included screws. Make sure it's oriented correctly and sits flush.

5. Attach the cable to the box with a cable clamp. Strip the wire ends using wire strippers.

Connect the Wiring and Install the GFCI Outlet

Follow these steps to make the wiring connections and install the GFCI outlet:

1. Connect the ground wire from the NM cable to the ground screw or wire on the outlet box.

2. Connect the neutral (white) wire to the silver screw or terminal on the GFCI outlet.

3. Connect the hot (black) wire to the brass screw or terminal on the GFCI outlet.

4. Make sure all screw connections are tight. No copper should be exposed.

5. Tuck the wires neatly into the box and mount the GFCI outlet. Make sure it sits flush in the box.

6. Attach the weatherproof cover plate using the included gasket to create a watertight seal around the outlet edges.

Restore Power and Test the Outlet

You're almost done! Follow these final steps:

1. Turn the power back on at the breaker panel. Make sure the outlet is getting power.

2. Press the "Test" button on the GFCI. Verify that it trips and cuts power to the outlet.

3. Press the "Reset" button to restore power. The outlet should again be energized.

4. Use a GFCI outlet tester to confirm proper function. The lights should indicate it's wired correctly and grounded.

5. Seal any gaps or openings around the electrical box and conduit with 100% silicon sealant. This prevents moisture intrusion.

Install a weatherproof cover plate and your new outdoor outlet is complete! Be sure to only plug in outdoor-rated devices and appliances. Never exceed the outlet's electrical load rating. Your new outdoor electrical outlet will provide power where you need it outside your home.