How to Seal a Light Switch

Every little bit counts when it comes to your electric bill. Caulking around windows is a given when it comes to being energy efficient, but most people forget about air leaks around light switches and electrical outlets. It is an easy fix and one that probably won't need any upkeep for years to come.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Non-expanding foam
• Foam gaskets
• Silicone caulk

1. Unscrew the cover plate with a screwdriver. The number of screws that need to be removed will depend on how many light switches there are.

2. Remove the cover plate from the wall.

3. Fill in the gaps around the outlets with non-expanding foam. You can find insulating foam at your local hardware store. Foam gaskets can also be used to insulate the space behind the cover plate.

4. Replace and secure the cover plate on the wall.

5. Use silicone caulk to fill the gaps around the outside of the cover plate. You can either insert a silicone cartridge into a caulk gun or buy silicone caulk in a tube you can simply squeeze out by hand.

Tips & Warnings

• Electrical outlets should be sealed as well as light switches. You can follow the same steps for sealing a light switch to seal an electrical outlet. Finish the job with plastic safety plugs. Air leaks can come right through the actual outlets, and the plugs help seal the outlet holes when not in use.
• Make sure that your wiring for both light switches and electrical outlets is secure before sealing them. If you are in doubt about any electrical box, have an electrician check things out before doing any work.