Arlington IN BOX recessed and surface while-in-use weatherproof covers for outdoor outlets — stocked in Canada, priced in CAD, shipped fast across Ontario & Quebec.
What is a weatherproof in-use cover?
A weatherproof in-use cover — also called a “while-in-use” or “bubble” cover — is an enclosure for an outdoor receptacle that stays weatherproof even while a cord is plugged in. The hinged lid closes down over the plug and cord, shielding the receptacle from rain, snow and wind-driven moisture year-round, not just when nothing is connected.
This matters most for receptacles that power something permanently or seasonally plugged in outdoors — holiday lighting, block heaters, pond pumps, landscape equipment. Arlington's IN BOX line covers both recessed and surface-mount versions. Maple is supply-only: confirm the right product and installation with a licensed electrician working to the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC).
In-use vs while-not-in-use covers — what's the difference?
A while-not-in-use cover (a flat or spring-loaded “flip” cover) is only weatherproof when the receptacle is empty and the lid is closed. As soon as a cord is plugged in, the lid can't close and the receptacle is exposed. These are acceptable only where nothing stays plugged in.
A while-in-use cover keeps the receptacle protected with a cord plugged in, because the deeper lid closes over the plug and cord. For outdoor receptacles where equipment may be connected for extended periods, an in-use cover is the type generally specified. Your electrician and local inspector make the final call for your installation.
IN BOX recessed vs surface-mount covers?
Arlington's recessed IN BOX sets the receptacle back into the wall cavity, so the plug and cord sit inside a recessed box and the cover closes nearly flush to the siding or stucco. This gives a low-profile, less obtrusive look and reduces how far the assembly projects from the wall.
A surface-mount (non-recessed) in-use cover mounts on top of an existing outlet box and bubbles outward from the wall to make room for the plug. Surface covers are typically the faster retrofit on an existing box, while recessed IN BOX units are common on new construction or renovations where the wall is open.
What size/configuration do I need (1–4 gang, horizontal/vertical)?
In-use covers are sized by the number of gangs (devices) they cover — commonly 1-gang and 2-gang, with multi-gang options up to 3–4 gang for larger assemblies. They also come in horizontal and vertical orientations to match how the box is mounted, and in configurations suited to duplex receptacles, GFCIs and other device types.
Pick the cover that matches your box's gang count, mounting orientation and device type. If you're matching an existing installation or planning a new one, send us the box details and we'll help identify the right Arlington part — but defer the final specification and any code questions to your licensed electrician.
Are in-use covers required by the Canadian Electrical Code outdoors?
The Canadian Electrical Code requires outdoor receptacles to be protected against the weather, and for receptacles where equipment may be left plugged in, that generally means a while-in-use (in-use) cover rather than a while-not-in-use type. Requirements depend on the receptacle's location, exposure and use.
Code interpretation and acceptability are decisions for your licensed electrician and local electrical inspector — not a supplier. Maple supplies the parts; confirm the exact requirement for your installation with a qualified professional under the current CEC and any local amendments.
| Cover type | Best application | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| While-not-in-use (flip cover) | Outdoor receptacles with nothing left plugged in | Weatherproof only when closed and empty; not for cords left connected |
| Surface-mount in-use cover | Retrofit on an existing outlet box | Bubbles out from the wall; faster to add to an existing box |
| Recessed IN BOX in-use cover | New construction / renovation with open wall | Receptacle set back into wall; cover closes nearly flush, low profile |
| Multi-gang in-use cover (2–4 gang) | Assemblies with multiple devices under one cover | Match gang count and horizontal/vertical orientation to the box |
Sourcing in-use covers for a project? Send us your parts list.
Request a QuoteFAQ
What does “while-in-use” actually mean?
It means the cover keeps the outdoor receptacle weatherproof even while a cord is plugged in. The deeper hinged lid closes over the plug and cord, unlike a flat “while-not-in-use” cover that only seals when empty.
Is a recessed IN BOX better than a surface cover?
Neither is universally better. Recessed IN BOX units sit nearly flush for a low-profile look and suit new construction; surface-mount covers are usually the faster retrofit on an existing outlet box. Your electrician picks what fits the wall.
How do I know what size cover I need?
Match the cover to the box's gang count (1–4 gang), its horizontal or vertical orientation, and the device type. If unsure, send us the box details and we'll help identify the Arlington part, then confirm with your electrician.
Are in-use covers required by the Canadian Electrical Code?
The CEC requires outdoor receptacles to be weatherproof, and an in-use cover is generally what's specified where equipment stays plugged in. The final call depends on your installation — confirm with your electrician and local inspector.
Are Arlington IN BOX covers priced in CAD?
Yes. All Arlington products on our store are priced in Canadian dollars (CAD). You order domestically through Maple, so there are no exchange-rate surprises, brokerage fees or import duty at checkout.
Does Maple stock in-use covers in Canada?
Yes. Maple Electric Supply is an authorized Arlington distributor stocking IN BOX recessed and surface in-use covers in Canada, with fast Ontario and Quebec shipping and will-call pickup for contractors.