Change Summary

• New requirement added to require all receptacles installed in a wet location for EV charging to be installed in an enclosure that provides weatherproof protection with or without an attachment plug cap inserted.

Expert Analysis

The provisions found at 406.9(B) call for all receptacles rated 15 and 20 amperes, 125 and 250 volts installed in a wet location to be provided with an enclosure that is weatherproof whether the attachment plug cap of a piece of utilization equipment is inserted or not.

For the 2020 NEC a new 625.56 has been added to Article 625 requiring all receptacles installed in a wet location for EV charging to possess an enclosure that is “weatherproof with the attachment plug cap inserted or removed.” Notice there is no voltage or amperage rating limitation to this new Article 625 rule. As with the related provisions of 406.9(B), this new Article 625 provision goes on to say that an outlet box hood installed for this purpose is required to be listed and be identified as “extra duty,” while allowing other listed products, enclosures, or assemblies providing weatherproof protection that do not utilize an outlet box hood to not be required to be marked “extra duty.”

This new receptacle enclosure requirement at 625.56 will bring some consistency between Article 406 and Article 625 while delivering the same degree of protection to Article 625 EV charging receptacle outlets as is afforded to 15- and 20-ampere rated receptacle outlets installed in a wet location elsewhere in the Code.

Leviton Solution

Leviton Extra Duty While-In-Use Covers
Built to withstand the elements and tough enough to comply with 406.9(B)(1) for “Extra-Duty”

• Accommodates Decora® GFCI devices. Adapter plates are included for duplex and single receptacles
• Heavy-duty gasket protects from moisture and adds to ease of installation
• Includes two inserts to cover cord openings to prevent insects and debris from entering the cover
• Safety lock feature