How to Save Money by Sealing Outlets and Switches

Electrical outlets and switches might not be an obvious source of infiltration, but collectively outlets and switches can leak a significant amount of air. Sealing these switches and outlets can save you money on your energy bill.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Foam gaskets
• Child safety plugs

1. Turn off the power.
   Go to the fuse box panel or breaker box and turn off the power to the circuit you are dealing with. Test that the circuit is off by plugging in a reliable lamp and seeing whether it will light or not.

2. Remove the cover plate.
   Plates are held in place by one or more screws. Remove the screws and lift off the plate.

3. Install the gasket.
   Place a foam gasket over the electrical box, removing the punched out holes in the foam for the outlets or switch. Replace the cover.

4. Block the slots.
   Even the slots in an outlet have chilling effect. Insert child safety plugs to block outlets that aren't in use.

Tips & Warnings

• air very easily drifts through the electrical box and out the opening in the drywall or plaster, it's best to seal them to block air flow.
• Make sure the electricity is off when instillation is in progress.

[Ballzy]

on 10/17/2008 Great Article! Im really going to save some extra cash! 5*