Outlet Cover Plates, Gang Boxes and Media Plates

Count the gangs, then match the opening

A gang is one device position, so a 1-gang plate covers one switch or outlet and a 2-gang plate covers two side by side. Then match the opening: toggle plates have a narrow slot for a standard switch, duplex plates have two round openings for an outlet, and decorator plates have a rectangular opening for rocker switches. Blank plates cover an unused box. A plate that fits the wrong device will not close or will leave gaps.

Outdoors, a plain plate is not enough. Weatherproof covers seal the box, and an in-use cover has a hinged flap that keeps rain off a cord left plugged in. Lockable versions restrict access to the outlet. Pick the cover for the orientation of the outlet, vertical or horizontal, and for the number of gangs in the box beneath. Check that it is rated for wet locations and that its gasket sits evenly against the wall.

Keep signal cabling and power apart

Brush plates have bristles that let cables pass through while covering the opening, and recessed HDMI plates let a TV sit closer to the wall. Media gang boxes are made for signal cabling; some expand to give room for connectors. Keep power wiring out of a box meant for low voltage unless the product is rated for both and divided. Modular plates accept snap-in inserts, so check that the inserts you plan to use match the plate format.

Questions about Outlet Cover Plates, Gang Boxes and Media Plates

Do metal wall plates need grounding?

A metal plate can become live if a wire touches it, so it must be grounded through the device or box, and its screws must go into the device. Plastic plates need no grounding and are the usual choice where wiring is uncertain.

Can a bigger plate cover a damaged wall opening?

Yes. Oversize or jumbo plates extend beyond a standard plate and hide ragged drywall edges around a box. Check the width and the screw spacing, and choose the same opening type as the device, toggle, duplex or decorator.

What does in-use cover mean?

It is an outdoor outlet cover with a deep, hinged hood, so you can leave a cord plugged in with the lid shut and the connection stays shielded from rain. A standard flip cover only protects the outlet when nothing is plugged in.