Don't forget to paint the power cord to match.
What paint to use on power outlets
I own some very nice Hubbell outlets. My wife does not like the color. I hate to spend $40 a piece to get new ones. Is there a paint product that someone can recommend?
I understand that I will be turning the circuit off and also filling the outlet holes before painting.
I understand that I will be turning the circuit off and also filling the outlet holes before painting.
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I want to thank all of you (most of you) for your helpful responses. I was in the furniture repair business for 22 years where I probably sprayed a thousand gallons of lacquer--without a mask. Luckily, I never inhaled. If having a great marriage (23 years)and a great stereo system requires changing the outlet color, I will change the outlet color. My wife and I both wear the pants in this family. Thanks again, Kevin |
If thats the case perhaps you can fill it with those little plastic childproof caps. That is if you can still find them. They were reputed to be of very little deterent to prying fingers and a choking hazard as well. Needless to say my recommendation is DON'T USE CHILDPROOF OUTLET CAPS WHEN CHILDREN ARE AT LARGE. If that is a concern, instead of using the caps, try Kidco Slide Outlet Covers. They use a slide mechanism - partially put the plug in and slide it to one side and push it in to the outlet. When you pull the plug out it springs back into the cover position. Apparently it works very well. I just did some work in a house with them in place and they would deifinitely confound most kids I've met, and probably most cats and many dogs even. No chocking worries, no worries of prying them out. Unfortunately the color thing still come into play, but there's sill the clever little MD spray paint. Marco |
I guess your wife objects to the color of that little area that would otherwise be covered with a plug. If thats the case perhaps you can fill it with those little plastic childproof caps. That is if you can still find them. They were reputed to be of very little deterent to prying fingers and a choking hazard as well. Needless to say my recommendation is DON'T USE CHILDPROOF OUTLET CAPS WHEN CHILDREN ARE AT LARGE. The same warning may hold true for pets. |
Do NOT use latex! Besides the fact that it shows dirt and scuff marks from plug prongs, it easily flakes off of plastic and can get into the oulet contacts. Use a plastic or epoxy spray paint that will bond with the plastic outlet body. Most colors are available at HD, but if you want a special color or matt color, go to a hobby shop and buy the stuff made for plastic models. |
Jax2 is right on this. I tried some cryo-treated Machina Dynamica Audio Paint and the difference is not small. Tighter bass and more extended highs. The paint does require burn-in time however. I found my system sounded best with an open can placed on my lap some 12 inches from my nose. After 60 minutes my system and music took on nice a 3D effect - wow! Bill |
Kev: I suppose that you have the plastic Ivory standard ones, right? Simply remove the covering plate and apply the same latex based paint used on the wall. will make them almost invisible if done properly. If you are careful enough you can do the same to all the outer parts, plug the holes, disconnect the breaker and do not dilute that much the paint. you might need to adjust technique and brush type to get a nice finish. flat paints tend to be more forgiving than eggshell or semigloss. Take your time be patient and you'll win some good points with her. Regards Luis |