When you decide to install a "waterproof" outdoor 'device' box for a receptacle, GFCI, or light switch or anything else PLEASE remember that it will only be "WaterProof" if you use ALL the necessary parts that came with it.
I just averted a fire at the next door neighbor's house by rushing inside and shutting of the circuit breaker feeding his outdoor lighting circuit!
He decided to power wash his vinyl siding and hosed down the receptacle box and kept going around the corner. I was cleaning my patio and noticed smoke coming from under his deck. I ran over and sure enough the smoke was coming from the 'waterproof' receptacle box so I ran inside, flipped the necessary breaker, grabbed the extinguisher and applied it to the box and surrounding conduit.
Fortunately I saw it before the 'fire' had traveled up inside the conduit to the inside of the house.
As we took the box off the wall and examined it I asked where the 'gasket' that completes the seal was since I didn't see any charred remains.
His rather shy answer, "Oh hell I didn't think that thing was necessary!"
So he is now at Lowes buying all the necessary conduit, fittings, box and wire so we can replace it all CORRECTLY.
All damage (minor) was confined to the outside of the house, the inside of the conduit and one fixture. Some new conduit, wire and fittings along with a little paint will fix it all up.
Electricity and Gas (natural or propane) are wonderful and have been harnessed for our convenience.
HOWEVER, they can turn into vicious killers if not handled correctly and with the greatest respect.
If you don't know exactly what you are doing with them PLEASE ask or hire someone who does know.
I have to tell the active and retired firefighters here...That adrenaline rush sure made the training I had 30 years ago pop to the front of my memory bank so I could act.
~~~GrayBeard~~~
