Best Outdoor Waterproof Sockets for Gardens: 2025 Expert Review
Oli at OR Electrics
Fully Qualified 18th Edition Electrician
Whether it's for the jet washer, the lawnmower, or those festive Christmas lights, getting power outside is on most homeowners' wish lists. However, electricity and British rain are a dangerous mix if the equipment isn't up to scratch.
I see a lot of DIY disasters where standard indoor cable is run outside, or cheap 'waterproof' sockets are filled with condensation because the seals have failed. In Leeds, where we get our fair share of bad weather, relying on cheap plastic isn't an option.
In this review, I'm looking at three outdoor socket options: a budget unit for standard use, a clever 'plug and play' option that avoids internal rewiring, and a secure lockable unit perfect for front gardens or shared driveways.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "IP66 Rating"
"The socket is completely dust-tight and protected against powerful water jets."
This is only true if the lid is clicked shut tightly. Once you have a plug inserted, if the lid doesn't close fully around the cable flex, that water resistance drops significantly. Always check the latch.
The Spec: "Easy Installation"
"Can be installed quickly by anyone."
Drilling through sheer brick or stone (common in Leeds) requires an SDS drill. Plus, under Part P of the Building Regulations, installing a new circuit outside is notifiable work. You must ensure the supply is RCD protected.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
GREENSAPPIRE Outdoor Waterproof Socket IP66 – 13A Double Switched Plug Socket
GREENSAPPIRE
If you just need a standard external socket without spending a fortune, this unit gets the job done. It's a no-frills dual gang socket made from decent polycarbonate. It's ideal for a rear garden patio where you need occasional power for a strimmer or BBQ.
The Good
- Very affordable price point
- Clear terminals make wiring straightforward
- Deep lid accommodates moulded plugs
The Bad
- Plastic feels slightly more brittle than premium brands
- Knockouts for cable entry can be stiff to remove
Installer Tip:
When drilling the box to the wall, put a dab of silicone sealant behind the screw holes before you tighten the screws. This prevents moisture from seeping through the back of the box and into the electrical connections.
Priced at £7.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonWeatherproof Outdoor Socket 13 Amp with 3M Cable Extension Lead
RICOKEY
This isn't just a socket; it's a pre-wired solution. It comes with a 3-metre cable and a plug, meaning you don't need to spur off your ring main. You simply mount the box outside, drill a single hole for the cable, and plug it into an existing indoor socket. Perfect for DIYers wary of touching fixed wiring.
The Good
- No electrical wiring knowledge needed (Plug & Play)
- High-quality rubber seals
- Includes 3m heavy-duty extension cable
The Bad
- Limited by the 3m cable length
- Cable is surface mounted, which can look untidy if not clipped well
Installer Tip:
Even though this is an extension lead, ensure the indoor socket you plug it into is RCD protected. If you cut the plug off to wire it into a fused spur (which I don't recommend for DIYers), you void the warranty.
Priced at £18.98 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonOutdoor Socket Waterproof IP66 Double Plug Socket with Lockable Cover
Darbony
The standout feature here is the secure locking mechanism. In areas like Headingley or Hyde Park, where student housing and foot traffic are high, having an unlocked socket in a front garden is an invitation for power theft. This unit allows you to padlock the cover shut, preventing unauthorised use.
The Good
- Prevents electricity theft in accessible areas
- Prevents children from tampering with live sockets
- UV-stabilised plastic stops it turning yellow
The Bad
- Padlock not included
- Slightly bulkier profile to accommodate the locking electrical mechanism
Installer Tip:
If you are installing this in a shared access area (like a driveway), ensure you use Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable for the supply. Standard PVC twin and earth cable is not suitable for outside use where it can be mechanically damaged.
Priced at £13.98 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need an RCD for an outdoor socket?
Can I use standard grey twin and earth cable outside?
Why does my outdoor socket keep tripping the electrics?
Can I install an outdoor socket myself?
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