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I'm now planning to install out outlet flush, or as flush/above as possible, to the soffit.

I've read other threads, and believe I'm good on how to protect it, etc.

I buy a rate outside box correct? Then I cut a hole that's (guessing) the same size as box? If so how does the box get mounted/attached? Or do I get a regular box and use the regular nails, and then get a waterproof in use cover?

Tester101
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user20127
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    I do not intend to be mean, but I have to ask you a question. Do you have any experience wiring electrical devices? I don't want you to get hurt or burn down your house. The nature of your questions leads me to believe you don't have much experience. If you feel confident to wire this safely, I can lay out a weather proof combo for ya. Yes, you need a weatherproof box, flange mounted with a matching weatherproof cover. If you are using a receptacle, you will need to use a GFi with matching cover. – shirlock homes Feb 27 '14 at 00:03
  • Am I missing something.. Why does an outlet in a soffit need to be waterproof? – Justin K Feb 27 '14 at 01:18
  • NM i guess it is a roof soffit you are talking about. What type of soffit is it? vinyl,plywood? – Justin K Feb 27 '14 at 01:22
  • @JustinK The soffit is considered a damp/wet location, and so a weatherproof installation is appropriate. – Tester101 Feb 27 '14 at 11:50
  • Ya I know I was thinking of an inside soffit. – Justin K Feb 27 '14 at 12:58

1 Answers1

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It's going to depend on what material is covering the soffit.

Soffit Covers

If it's aluminium/plastic soffit covers, you'll have to remove the section where you're installing the receptacle. Install proper bracing (a simple 2x4 between the rafters should be fine), and attach the electrical box to it. Then mark, and cut a hole for the electrical box in the soffit cover. Finish by putting the soffit cover back in place.

Make sure to measure and align the box properly, so the box will be flush with (or just protruding from) the soffit cover.

Wood

If it's wood, you can either surface, or flush mount the electrical box. Simply select the appropriate box for your installation.

Weatherproofing and Ground-fault protection

Because the receptacle is outside, you'll want to provide ground-fault protection. You'll also want to make sure the box, and cover are both weatherproof and approved for damp/wet locations. See this answer, to the question How do I install a receptacle in the soffit? for more information.

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Tester101
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