Garvee Outdoor Electrical Box 20x12x10 inches,Steel Junction Box,IP66 Waterproof & Dustproof,Carbon Steel,Lock & Mounting Plate,Indoor & Outdoor Use

I design and install remote solar-powered entrance and sign lighting typically used in both institutional and industrial applications. These systems are located at road entrances not served by any electrical service, and are subject to a higher risk of vandalism and weather extremes. For these reasons I like using these GARVEE metal electrical enclosures as they are extremely rugged, and include a rubber gasket and raised metal lip inside the access door, which easily keeps out rain, snow, and dust.I really like the removable bottom plate feature which allows installing all of the control and power wires through this one plate and avoid drilling into the enclosure sides or top which carry a higher risk of rain and dustpenetration. In addition, the enclosure includes a metal back plate and mounting screws which allows installing and pre-wiring all electrical and electronic components on this plate which can then be placed inside after the enclosure has been mounted and all wiring conduits have been installed. The access door includes two heavy metal hinges having removable pins making it easier to work inside with the door removed. The door also includes a braided copper grounding strap for added safety.The two included keys and very unusual triangle shaped access bolt recessed in the access door provides a very good level of protection from vandalism, which is important for my remote un-attended applications.My only reason for 4 out of 5 stars is the enclosure does not carry a “UL” stamp. While it is advertised to meet the very high standards that are part of a NEMA-4 rating, some electrical inspectors want to also see the “UL” label on every electrical enclosure.

This box is built like a tank. It's considerably larger than I expected and has plenty of room for electrical components. When I first opened it, I was pretty upset to discover it was locked and the key was rattling around inside. Then I had a big DUH moment when I realized the hinged side was unattached. I removed the lid and retrieved the key, mounting hardware, instructions, and hinge pins.I'm not deducting a star for it, but the manufacturer should at least bag the key and other components and tape the bag to the inside of the box, instead of having everything rattling around loose inside the box.The rubber seal looks good, as does the copper strap from the box to the lid. The removable mounting plate provides plenty of options for mounting components.This is a legit, NEMA-rated, well built outdoor box. If you need a box this large, this is a good choice in my opinion.

In my day job, I’ve used plenty of these enclosure boxes to house different types of electronics, so I’m more than a little familiar with what works and what doesn’t. I can easily say this enclosure box is the real deal.It carries a NEMA 4X rating, which means it’s built to handle tough environments: it keeps out windblown dust and dirt, blocks splashing and hose-directed water, resists corrosion, and can be used both indoors and outdoors without worry. In short, if you see “NEMA 4X,” you know it’s made for wet, dirty, and corrosive conditions — and it keeps the gear inside safe.On top of that, it’s also rated IP66. That’s a different standard but similar in purpose: it’s completely dust-tight and can handle strong water jets from any direction. Just note it’s not meant for full submersion (you’d need IP67 or IP68 for that), but for pretty much anything else — rain, washdowns, or spray — it’s solid.A few details really make this box stand out:Grounding strap: Keeps the cover electrically connected at all times.Removable mounting plate: Makes it easier to install DIN rails or surface-mount components, and makes servicing simpler and more secure.Triangle lock with two “keys”: Keeps casual users out. And if you need higher security, the lock cylinder can be swapped out for a standard one.Removable bottom plate: Makes routing and installing cable entries a lot easier.Good seal around the door: Looks durable and should last a long time.Heavy-gauge metal: Thick and strong enough to resist dents and other damage.If there’s a downside, it’s that it’s a little pricey. But honestly, you’re paying for quality — and in my opinion, it’s worth every penny.

Enclosure was fairly well built. One issue was the studs welded internally to hold the backboard in are not welded adequately and are bending at the weld. This could be a challenge for someone not able to spot weld the studs back in if they break off. So far they are holding.The only other thing is the latch. It's a triangular pin that has a matching key to open and close the door, no way to lock it and might be a challenge to open if the key is lost.