[bembry]

I have an outlet in my floor that I don't often use. I don't want to completely remove it but it is ugly and I would like to cover it with a rug. I worry though, about that being a fire hazard. Is there something I can safely cover the outlet with before I put down the rug?

Thanks!

[Morrowrj]

The problem with covering electrical wires with a carpet lies in trapped heat which is generated by current flow. This only exists if you have a device plugged in. Without that, there is no current flow, and thus no heat generated so you should be safe to cover.


Morrowrj

[ballengerb1]

So you are saying your outlet is actually in the floor surface, right. I don't like this kind of installation but I've seen them. Dirt and spills can get into a floor outlet, both a no-no. You can remove the recptacle and cap the wires with wire nuts and electric tape. Cover with a steel outlet cover plate. This covers the box and will deflect dirt and liquids. There you just made a new junction box.

[ebaines]

How about using a couple of those plastic child safety plugs for the outlet - they may not be waterproof, but they would protect the sockets from dust and dirt.

[ballengerb1]

Those are better than carpet or nothing at all but removing the recptacle is much safer.