If you've been tackling any outdoor electrical projects lately, you've probably realized that choosing the right arlington in use box can make a massive difference in how your outlets handle the elements. It's one of those things you don't think much about until you're standing in the rain trying to figure out why your patio lights won't turn on. Most standard outlet covers are fine when nothing is plugged in, but the second you add a cord, they leave the guts of your electrical system exposed. That's where the "in use" part becomes a literal lifesaver.
I've spent a fair amount of time messing around with exterior wiring, and honestly, the old-school "bubble" covers were always a bit of an eyesore. They're bulky, they crack after a few years in the sun, and they just look like a giant plastic tumor growing out of the side of your house. Arlington really changed the game by designing boxes that actually look decent while keeping your connections dry.
Why "In Use" Actually Matters
In the world of electrical codes, there's a big distinction between a cover that's "weatherproof while closed" and one that's "weatherproof in use." If you're just putting an outlet on the side of a shed that rarely gets used, a flip-top cover might pass. But if you're plugging in holiday lights, a pond pump, or a bug zapper, you need a cover that stays sealed even when a cord is dangling out of it.
The arlington in use box is designed with a deep enough housing that the entire plug sits inside the protected zone. The cord exits through a small, shielded opening at the bottom. This prevents gravity from pulling water right into the socket. If you've ever seen those charred-looking outlets at an old campsite, it's usually because somebody used a standard cover with a cord plugged in during a thunderstorm.
The Beauty of the Low-Profile Design
One of the biggest complaints people have with exterior boxes is how far they stick out from the wall. If you're walking down a narrow walkway or a deck, it's easy to catch your hip on a traditional box. Arlington solved this with their recessed and "In-and-Out" series.
Instead of the whole box sitting on top of your siding, these boxes are designed to be installed partially inside the wall. It's a much cleaner look. For example, their "In-and-Out" model is pretty clever. When you don't have anything plugged in, you can push the cover back so it sits flush against the house. When you need to plug something in, you just pull it out to create the "in use" space. It's a simple mechanical solution to a problem that's annoyed homeowners for decades.
Picking the Right Box for Your Siding
Not all walls are created equal, and Arlington knows that. One of the reasons I usually recommend an arlington in use box to friends is because they make specific versions for different types of siding.
If you have traditional vinyl siding, you know it's a nightmare to get anything to sit flat against those angled laps. Arlington makes boxes with built-in flanges that match the profile of your siding. Whether you have 4-inch laps, 5-inch laps, or even Dutch lap siding, there's a version that fits perfectly. This isn't just about looks, either. A flat fit means you can get a much better seal with your caulk, which prevents water from sneaking behind the box and rotting out your sheathing.
For those with brick or stone, they have recessed options that can be mortared right in. It looks way more professional than just screwing a grey plastic box onto the surface and hoping for the best.
Installation Tips for the DIY Crowd
Installing an arlington in use box isn't exactly rocket science, but there are a few things that can trip you up if you aren't careful. First off, always make sure the power is dead. I know it sounds obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people try to swap a cover "hot" and end up seeing sparks.
When you're cutting into your siding or sheathing, take your time. If you're using one of the recessed models, the hole needs to be pretty precise. I usually trace the back of the box onto the wall and then use a vibrating multi-tool or a jigsaw to get a clean line.
One thing people often forget is the caulking. Even if the box comes with a foam gasket, I always like to run a bead of high-quality silicone around the top and sides where the box meets the house. Leave the bottom edge uncaulked, though. This acts as a "weep hole"—if any moisture somehow gets in, it has a way to drain out rather than sitting inside the wall.
Dealing with Orientation
Most people think of these boxes as vertical, but you can get them in horizontal configurations too. This is a big deal if you're limited on space, like under a low window or near a deck railing. The arlington in use box usually features a "bug plug" or a set of inserts that keep wasps and spiders from turning your outlet into a luxury apartment.
I've opened up plenty of old boxes only to find a massive hornet's nest inside. It's not fun. Arlington's design is pretty tight, so as long as you use the included inserts to close up any gaps, you should stay critter-free.
Durability and Material Quality
Let's talk about plastic for a second. We've all bought those cheap storage bins that turn brittle and shatter after one summer in the sun. Electrical boxes are under even more stress because they're exposed to UV rays 24/7.
The plastic used in an arlington in use box is a heavy-duty, UV-rated polycarbonate. It's designed not to yellow or crack under the sun. I've seen these boxes still looking brand new after five or six years in direct sunlight. The hinges are usually the weak point on cheaper brands, but Arlington uses reinforced pins that don't just snap off the first time someone pulls too hard on the cover.
Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
You can go to a big-box store and find a generic "in-use" cover for ten bucks. An Arlington setup might cost you double or triple that, depending on the model. So, is it worth it?
In my opinion, absolutely. If you care about the "curb appeal" of your home, the low-profile look alone justifies the price. Beyond that, the ease of installation and the fact that you won't have to replace it in three years makes it a better value in the long run. There's nothing more annoying than a cracked cover that lets rain in and trips your GFCI outlet every time it drizzles.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, an arlington in use box is just a small part of your home's infrastructure, but it's one that does a lot of heavy lifting. It keeps your family safe, protects your electronics, and keeps your house looking tidy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just a homeowner trying to upgrade your back patio for summer BBQs, it's a solid investment.
Just remember to check your local codes before you start cutting holes in your walls. Most places require a GFCI outlet for any outdoor application, and pairing that with a high-quality in-use box is the best way to ensure everything stays up to snuff and, more importantly, safe. Once it's installed, you can plug in your string lights or your electric grill and enjoy the outdoors without constantly checking the weather report.