If you've ever noticed cold air leaks while plugging something in, it might be time to insulate outlets in your home. Both electrical outlets and light switches have the potential for air leakage if not properly sealed. While the amount of air seems tiny, it can definitely add up on your energy bills.
Air gaps are energy drains
If you’ve taken off the cover plate on the outlet switch, you've probably noticed a space in the wall where you can store a power outlet. This unused space in the exterior wall lets the airflow in from the outside with or without the cover plate attached.
Foam outlet insulation
One solution to leaky outlets is to use foam gaskets. These gaskets fit underneath the cover plate and extend beyond the edges to prevent airflow. Some homeowners use spray foam insulation as an alternative to gaskets.
Whether you choose spray foam or a foam outlet gasket, this is a common and affordable way to seal the gaps.
Sealing junction boxes
While foam does make a difference, the most efficient way to prevent warm air from moving in or out of your walls is to also seal the junction box. You can do this by using spray foam inside the empty spot behind the cover plate. Make sure to use non-expanding foam, as expanding foam can be a fire hazard.
This is only a basic guide to air seal electrical boxes at home. Always turn off the power before tinkering with your outlets, and consult a licensed electrician for guidance.
About the Author
Hannah Sosinski
I started my career in the real estate industry at the age of sixteen and instantly fell in love.
I worked alongside one of the top producing agents in the country as their administrative assistant for nearly nine years before I took the leap to begin my own journey in the real estate industry.
Working alongside an agent who sells over three hundred houses a year educated me strongly on the Pittsburgh and greater Pittsburgh housing market. While working alongside this agent, I was lucky enough to be involved in several different types of real estate transactions and learned to properly determine home values, many aspects of negotiations and have learned how to close challenging deals while also handling a large amount of deals at the same time.
I have also spent the past seven years working as a property manager throughout Allegheny, Washington and Fayette County. I have managed everything from Section 8 to Luxury units.
Exploring the options of the real estate industry can be overwhelming. While working with me you’re able to sit back and relax as I have worked with many investors, home sellers and buyers and can help guide through the sale or purchase of your home and make it as easy on you as possible.
Whether you’re a first time home owner, downsizing, sizing up, looking to make your first/second or third investment, selling your home, etc. I can use my years of education to help guide you through the purchase or sale of the largest investment of your life.
I look forward to chatting about real estate with you!