Do you keep your Pump Plug in the outlet 24/7

[richierich]

This is my question. I have an outdoor GFCI outlet but I manually plug in and unplug the unit everyday. I know that the GFCI will shut off if it gets wet but my concern is we have a torrential rain, can't water get into the outlet and damage the insides? See pic, if it starts raining crazy water can get in between the plug and the outlet receptacle. Do most people leave theirs plugged in 24/7.

 

[Synergy2]

Mine is plugged in all day every day.

That is an outdoor box so the likelihood of getting water in there is much smaller. It would take a good driving rain to really soak that. Worst case, if a big storm is coming just unplug it and close the lid.

 

[jcp]

The cover on that box is not rated to be "in use" while its raining, it seals when it's closed. Google "while in use" outlet cover, that's really what you want to keep it plugged in all the time.

Can't say if you'll ever have a problem with what you got, just pointing you to what is technically proper.

 

[richierich]

Ah I see, like a big clear plastic cover where the plug fits into.

 

[Beens]

Mine is plugged in every day 24/7 for 2 years now.

 

[Azgirl71]

Mine is like yours and I only unplug it for hubby to use his smoker.

I am probably going to get a plastic cover though.

 

[Richard320]

For the short term... is there some reason other than esthetics that you can't put a plastic bag over the post and plug?

 

[JoyfulNoise]

You should change that receptacle to a proper outdoor, in-use rated one. Even the really fancy metal ones with lock-out tabs are not that expensive and the installation is pretty easy. Just remember to de-energize the circuit at your main panel before attempting to make electrical changes.

 

[MirellaJoe]

mine has been plugged in 24/7 for 3 years now

 

[DaneCE]

I have my power outlet covered with a tiny roof.

 

[JoyfulNoise]

I have my power outlet covered with a tiny roof.

That's awesome!!

 

[f3justusc]

24/7 covered with a plastic bag.