How to get power outside without outlet?

Bobby Reynolds
by Bobby Reynolds

Hi All


How can I get power outside without an outlet? I would like to hear about some of your innovative solutions and experiences.


Maybe portable power generators or battery packs for outdoor use? Renewable energy sources?


Looking forward to reading your DIY approaches and safety considerations.


Thank you

How to get power outside without outlet

  15 answers
  • William William on Jun 18, 2023

    Portable generators are used by construction crews where there is no power available. They are also used in an emergency when there is loss of power. They do require gasoline to operate. Batteries are low voltage so they wouldn't provide any usable power outlets. Solar panels charge battery packs which need to be converted to AC voltage using an inverter. Only solution is to run wiring and an outdoor GFCI outlet in a weatherproof outlet box.

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Jun 19, 2023

    If this for temporary use, you could run an extension cord from the inside, be careful about trip hazards.

  • I agree with William. If you just want lighting, try solar lights. There are lots of options now.

  • Seth Seth on Jun 19, 2023

    If there is outlet nearby, you can tap into that and run cable in conduit outside the building. When the conduit is painted you will not notice it. Make sure you are aware of local electric codes if you are doing the work yourself.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Jun 19, 2023

    It would depend on the amount of power that you would need. We use a small generator at our farm when we need to get power further than 20' from the house. A traditional generator does put off fumes so you might look into a solar powered generator.

    We also have a small jump starter that has a battery pack that will power small items. Mine are not large but I've used for a phone charger, light, and radio.

  • Dee Dee on Jun 19, 2023

    My neighbor runs a cord from his kitchen under the window and uses his speakers. Another neighbor ran a line from his attic to the patio.

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jun 20, 2023

    Run an extension lead from indoor point and then connect up!

  • Betsy Betsy on Jun 20, 2023

    Hi Bobby: My suggestion would be to hire someone to install an outside outlet. It's the cheapest in the long run, and you will have a switch inside to turn the power on and off. You can then plug in extension cords for whatever you need. I had one put in the back of the house and one in the front. They are so useful and I don't have to worry about an extension cord wearing out and becoming a fire hazard. Sometimes it's just better to go with something that's a little more money up front, and cheaper in the long run. Whomever you have do it, be sure they are qualified and bonded and licensed.

  • Mogie Mogie on Jun 23, 2023

    Solar panels or solar lights. We have solar motion lights and they have worked great for over 5 years.

  • JEAN ANTONUCCI JEAN ANTONUCCI on Jun 24, 2023

    Get a solar generator! I have one from JAckery but many companies make them Come in many sizes with light folding solar panels Takes an after noon to charge it but can charge from car ( which of course defeats the purpose of renewables..)or grid Then the good part- It has plugs on it also a light and usb plugs I use it to lower my electric bill by putting it on the counter and plugging my frig in for several hrs a day Free renewabale energy Really, do this! Wish you well AND then you have it if power goes out or to go camping:)

  • What are you looking to power? The solutions will depend on that. I go solar wherever I can outdoors then otherwise just run an extension cord for temporary uses.

  • Bobby Reynolds Bobby Reynolds on Jul 02, 2023

    I appreciate everyone's helpful advice, thank you

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jul 21, 2023

    Extention lead! Call in an electrician to fix on for you!

  • Installing a receptacle back-to-back with one inside the house is the quickest way to extend power outside. Additionally, you can use an extension ring to screw a receptacle to the side of a house by drilling through the wall from a basement or crawlspace.