Are all electrical outlet covers the same size? There are three common wall plate sizes: standard, midsize/midway and jumbo. When selecting a size, the plate should completely cover the electrical box opening.
What is the standard size of an outlet cover plate?
The preferred (midsize/midway) single-size switch and outlet cover plate is nominally 3.13 inches wide by 4.88 inches tall. The preferred (midsize/midway) two-gang switch and outlet cover plate measures 4.94 inches wide by 4.88 inches tall.
What is a wall switch or outlet cover plate?
A wall switch or outlet cover plate is a cover plate used to conceal a wall switch or an electrical outlet. Wall switches and outlet cover plates cover switches and outlets on walls and also those built into furniture, such as kitchen islands or other types of cabinetry. There are a few types of switch and plate covers, including:
What are the different sizes of switches and outlets?
Switches and wall outlet cover plates are screwed onto the wall and come in three general sizes: 1 Standard 2 Preferred (also known as midsize or midway) 3 Oversized (also called jumbo) More ...
Are all electrical panel cover plates the same size?
The only exception which comes to mind is that dimmer switches may require a larger than normal box for heat dissipation. Cover plates generally are the same size if they are the "standard size". (Sorry, I am not trying to be funny.) But there are also oversize plates and jumbo plates which are handy if the sheetrock does not butt close to the box.
What Is a Wall Switch/Outlet Cover Plate?
How many outlets can you cover in a ganged wall?
What is a single and ganged switch?
What is a wall switch plate?
What are the different types of switch plates?
Why use a larger switch cover plate?
What is a thermoplastic cover plate?
See 2 more
How are outlet covers measured?
Place a ruler or tape measure against the plate or electrical box holes to get a precise measurement. Get the distance from the center of one screw hole to the center of the opposite screw hole (down to 32nds of an inch if need be).
Are outlet covers interchangeable?
Most are designed for artistic effect to provide a larger work of art. These don't seem to be standard sizes, but are interchangeable unless replacing a larger one with a slightly smaller one exposes some unpainted wall.
Are all light switch covers the same size?
Different Switch Outlet Covers Both covers are different in that, the Decora outlet is used for two receptacles, while the duplex outlet is used for one receptacle. Yet both types of outlets come in three different sizes.
Are switch covers universal?
No, light switches are not universal. They come in various sizes, from the standard to the more oversized ultra light switch covers.
What size is a standard outlet cover?
Standard Size for Single and Two-Gang Switch/Outlet Typically, standard-size wall switches and outlet cover plates are used for new construction where construction tolerances are tighter. The standard size single switch or outlet cover plate is nominally 2.75 inches wide by 4.5 inches tall.
Do you need to turn off electricity to change outlet cover?
Before making any replacements or grabbing any tools, turn off the power to the outlet. If you're working on more than one outlet, turn off the power to the house. Locate your circuit breaker and turn off the related breakers. Then, double check that the interior power is off by testing a few lights in the house.
How do I choose an outlet cover?
Consider the background on which the plate rests as well as the color of the actual light switch or outlet. It might look odd if you had a stark white switch sticking out from a beige plate that's resting on a dark blue wall. If you want to paint the cover, make sure that the surface is designed to take a coat or two.
Should outlet covers match wall or trim?
Architectural Digest suggests painting outlet covers the same color and finish as the trim in a room for a subtle, textural effect. Keep in mind that if you choose not to paint the covers, the outlet itself and the cover should be the same color.
How do you measure a light switch cover?
Look for the measurement from the screw hole to the edge of the shortest side of the cover.Short rocker covers: 7/16"Short toggle covers: 27/32"Short duplex covers: 2"
What are different outlet covers called?
Wall PlatesTypes of Wall Plates. Wall plates, also known as switch plates, cover your home's outlets and light switches, keeping wires out of sight and away from fingers. With a wide variety of colors and materials to choose from, wall plates can complement the decor of any room.
Are there different types of outlets?
Different types of electrical outlets are good for different use cases. Learn if you have the right ones installed at home. If not all electrical outlets in your home look the same, it's because there are many different types of electrical outlets. Each type has unique characteristics and features.
How do I identify a wall outlet?
You can tell the type of electrical service to any receptacle outlet by the holes for a plug. A standard 110-volt plug has two rectangular holes, the left one slightly larger, with a hole below that has a rounded top.
How do you replace a cover plate on an outlet?
0:222:35Outlet Cover Plate Installation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHas a screw in the center of the cover plate that threads clockwise into the center of the outlet.MoreHas a screw in the center of the cover plate that threads clockwise into the center of the outlet. Careful. That you don't over tighten the screw because you could crack the cover plate.
Are all wall plates the same?
Wall plates have many different configurations. To find the right one for your needs, consider where it will be used and the number of switch/outlet openings. Also, consider the number of gangs in a wall plate. Gangs refer to the number of side-by-side elements, which isn't always the same as the number of openings.
How do I replace my electric cover?
0:029:42How to Replace Outlets, Light Switches and GFCI Plugs - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd to do that you just need to go to the circuit breaker box within your home. And switch off theMoreAnd to do that you just need to go to the circuit breaker box within your home. And switch off the appropriate thing but always test to make sure that it's properly.
How do you upgrade outlet covers?
0:281:21Outlet Cover - A quick color change hack - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere's how they work turn off the power at the circuit breaker or pull the fuse remove. The oldMoreHere's how they work turn off the power at the circuit breaker or pull the fuse remove. The old faceplate. Place the outlet cover over the old outlet and replace the faceplate. Turn the power back on.
How much can you differ in a plate?
As for the outer edges of the plates these are pretty close but actually can differ by as much as 1/4". This has no effect unless you are putting the outlet in a really tight space.
What is the opening size of a Hubbell plate?
For instance the opening on a Hubbell plate is 1.312"x2.625", while these Leviton are slightly different, but all within a reasonable spec to be called the same.
Is a cover plate the same size as a standard plate?
Cover plates generally are the same size if they are the "standard size". (Sorry, I am not trying to be funny.) But there are also oversize plates and jumbo plates which are handy if the sheetrock does not butt close to the box. Most are designed for artistic effect to provide a larger work of art.
What is an outlet?
OUTLET - We use the term "Outlet" to refer to electrical receptacles, plugs, sockets, and duplex plates with two rounded openings (1-1/8" h x 1-11/32" across at their widest). We use the term "Rocker" to refer to block, Decora, slider, GFI, GFCI, or wide size openings (1-5/16" x 2-5/8"). Shop for Electrical Outlets
How far apart are switchplates?
Switchplate openings are 1-13/16" apart, center to center, from gang to gang.
What is the shape of a telephone jack?
Sometimes, the telephone electrical fittings are attached to the plate itself and the jack opening is the shape of a rectangle with a small notch below. These types of plates can usually be replaced with our Telephone Jack 1, Telephone Jack 2 and Telephone Jack 3 plates by switching to the modular phone jacks. We carry the phone modular jacks, Ethernet jacks and cable jacks in white, ivory, gray and black here: Decorator Modular Phone Jacks and Cable Adapters.
How many switch plate configurations are there?
Shop by Size - Click Light Switch Plate Configurations to select from 400+ of switch plate configurations in nearly 20 quality metal finishes.
How deep are switch plates?
Regular Switchplates are a standard 4-1/2" high and 5/32" deep; width varies based on the number of gangs:
How to choose the right size light switch cover?
When selecting the right size for light switch covers, consider the plate orientation. The light outlet covers vary in different orientations. For instance, the decorative switch covers have one type of orientation, and that is a portrait, unlike the normal light outlet covers. This is due to the design on top of the decorative outlet covers that you use to guide you. The light covers come in different orientation despite the different sizes. For instance, a normal light outlet cover can be rotated in all directions since it doesn't have any significant design on top of the cover. Therefore, select the right size, and the type of orientation that matches your taste and preference.
What is a switchplate cover?
Switchplate covers are one of the things to consider when enhancing your home décor. However, there are certain things to consider such as the right size for a switch outlet cover. There are factors to consider when selecting the right switch outlet cover for your home such as color and orientation. The following is a basic guide to help you ...
What is the difference between a duplex and a decora switch plate?
For instance, there a Decora switch outlet cover and a duplex outlet cover. Both covers are different in that, the Decora outlet is used for two receptacles, while the duplex outlet is used for one receptacle. Yet both types of outlets come in three different sizes. Therefore, when selecting the right size for switch outlet cover for your home, ensure to describe the type as well as the correct size. Remember, there are several variations for the outlet covers, so do your research well.
Can a light outlet cover be rotated?
For instance, a normal light outlet cover can be rotated in all directions since it doesn't have any significant design on top of the cover. Therefore, select the right size, and the type of orientation that matches your taste and preference.
How wide is a standard light switch cover?
These cover plates measure 4.5 inches high and 2.75 inches wide and are the industry standard. They are the most economical, usually costing less than a dollar apiece even at the priciest hardware store.
What do light switch cover plates look like?
You can find cover plates that look like ornate picture frames, stick figure people, animals, plants, and even guitars.
What is a four gang light switch cover plate?
A four gang light switch cover plate accommodates four toggle switches but can easily switch to a combination setup. You can exchange a GFCI outlet or data port since the assembly measures 4.17 inches by 1.38 inches.
How big is the cover plate on a toggle switch?
The switch opening is approximately 1 inch by 1 inch and fits the toggle switch and the rotary dimmer mechanism. The outlet opening measures 1.12 inches across and 1.33 inches for each individual plug.
What is a light switch cover?
Light switch covers are wall plates that cover the switch mechanism and electrical wiring that operate the installed electrical fixtures. Their primary function is to protect the wiring and prevent electrocution, and most have a plain design that blends in. However, there are lots of different designs, types, and combinations that combine form, function, and even fashion.
What is a combination cover plate?
Combination cover plates can also have custom combinations of switch and outlet types. You can arrange toggles, duplex outlets, rocker switches, and GFCIs outlets that can sit in whatever configuration is desired. As with standard plates, decorator combination plates match the dimensions of multiple gang cover plates, with a 4.5-inch height.
What direction should a light switch cover plate be installed?
Standard covers usually install in either direction; however, decorative and combination cover plates may have a specified top and bottom. Double-check that your cover plate matches the switch or switch/outlet configuration installed before committing to a given style.
What is an outlet cover?
And outlet covers can help you cross one of those items off your to-do list. As you might expect, outlet covers are small items designed to conceal your outlets—o ften by plugging directly into them (so you can’t plug anything else in ) or by covering them up entirely.
What is a box style outlet cover?
A box-style outlet cover is good for protecting sockets that power items that stay plugged in for an extended period, like a table lamp. It also is a handy solution for protecting outlets that you need regular access to, but don’t want to have to remove plugs from every time you use them.
How many plugs can you fit in a safety 1st plug protector?
For less than $2, you can score a whopping 24 outlet plugs. And since the plugs are designed to fit two-prong and three-prong sockets, they should suit any standard outlet in your home.
What is the best way to use an outlet while it is covered?
If you want to be able to use your outlets while they’re covered up, a box style outlet cover may be your best bet. These outlet covers are designed to jut out from the wall, making room for even your biggest plugs to be plugged in while your outlet is covered.
How many plugs does a baby proof outlet have?
These easy-to-use outlet plugs will baby proof your home in just seconds and it comes with 38 plugs, enough for the whole house.
How to press a safety 1st outlet plug?
The Safety 1st Deluxe Press Fit Outlet Plugs require you to push a button on the left side, then continuously press a button on the top side of the plug cover. After squeezing both buttons (and while holding the top button down), the outlet cover can gently be pulled from the outlet.
What is a sliding outlet cover?
Sliding outlet covers look a lot like classic switch plates. But where you’d normally see a static outlet, you’ll find a sliding one. Slide this outlet to one side, and it’ll work like a classic outlet. Slide it to the other side, and you won’t be able to plug anything in.
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What Is a Wall Switch/Outlet Cover Plate?
A wall switch or outlet cover plate is a cover plate used to conceal a wall switch or an electrical outlet.
How many outlets can you cover in a ganged wall?
Ganged wall switch and outlet cover plates (to cover two, three, or four switches or outlets in a row)
What is a single and ganged switch?
Tip. There are single and ganged switches and outlet cover plates that also protect USB ports and other data jacks located directly on the wall or other surfaces.
What is a wall switch plate?
Wall switches and outlet cover plates cover switches and outlets on walls and also those built into furniture, such as kitchen islands or other types of cabinetry. There are a few types of switch and plate covers, including: Toggle wall switch plates for switches that flip up and down.
What are the different types of switch plates?
Wall switches and outlet cover plates cover switches and outlets on walls and also those built into furniture, such as kitchen islands or other types of cabinetry. There are a few types of switch and plate covers, including: 1 Toggle wall switch plates for switches that flip up and down 2 Rocker wall switch plates, with a large rectangular opening, work with rocker, dimmer, slide, and tap switches 3 Outlet cover plates 4 Combination switch and outlet cover plates (for example a toggle switch and outlet or a toggle and rocker switch) 5 Ganged wall switch and outlet cover plates (to cover two, three, or four switches or outlets in a row)
Why use a larger switch cover plate?
Use of a larger switch or outlet cover plate can save time and effort in non-standard applications where you would otherwise have to patch, sand, and/or repaint the wall around an outlet or switch to use a standard plate.
What is a thermoplastic cover plate?
Thermoplastic cover plates are made of durable nylon that won't typically crack. They typically come in standard colors such as white, beige, black, and other neutral colors.
