Weatherproof outdoor receptacle covers are a swap worth making

The foam gasket on the flip-up lid of an old outdoor receptacle cover keeps moisture out of the electrical box—but only when the cover is closed. That’s unhelpful in a sudden storm or when a cottager forgets to snap the cover down. Yes, these covers were code compliant—probably because no better product existed.

Safety often drives electrical product design. Engineers developed new covers that remain weatherproof even if a cord is plugged in and it’s raining hard. These weatherproof covers were added to the Canadian Electrical Code about 10 years ago, for use with all 15- or 20-amp receptacles in wet locations.

The first generation of while-in-use covers have a big bubble that shrouds the plug. In my opinion, they’re a little unsightly. But designs have improved, with a slim- profile cover that lays flat when it’s not used, like the older flip cover. When you need it, the cover pulls out with an accordion-style gasket to remain weatherproof. Code-compliant weatherproof covers will be marked “Extra-Duty,” and the markings must be visible after installation. Most of these “Extra-Duty While-In-Use” covers can be retrofitted over an existing receptacle. And while you’re adding a new cover, make sure the outlet itself is GFCI- protected. Safety?Now you’re covered.

This story originally appeared in our May ’25 issue.