What are the requirements for installing outdoor receptacles?

The requirements for installing outdoor receptacles are crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with electrical codes. Outdoor receptacles must be weather-resistant and equipped with ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection. Weather-resistant receptacles are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, including moisture, which helps prevent corrosion and electrical hazards. GFCI protection is essential because it reduces the risk of electric shock, particularly in wet locations where water can contribute to electrical hazards.

The need for GFCI protection specifically addresses the increased risk of electrical faults that can occur outdoors, as water is a significant factor in many electrical accidents. Thus, both weather resistance and GFCI protection are mandated by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for outdoor receptacles to enhance safety for users.

In contrast, other options suggest installations that do not meet the safety requirements set forth by the NEC, such as using standard non-GFCI types or restricting placements to specific areas without consideration of environmental exposure.