Anyone Else Get This Paranoid About Air Leaks?

Jeff C
by Jeff C
So reading up on air penetration leaks and doing my best to stem off cold drafts I've been feeling as of late, I picked up a 100 pack of mixed Light switch, GFI and duplex insulation pieces. They fit right behind the plate and are used as insulation to combat drafts and air leaks. As a bonus, I use the left over pieces from the duplex covers to slide onto baby outlet protectors to prevent air from coming out of the receptacle holes themselves. I have no idea if this is going to work or not but for some psychological reason, I feel better that they are installed versus not having them.
I was amazed by the fact that the other day, I was replacing and outlet when I noticed cold air shooting through the back of the receptacle box into the room. Upon further inspection, I saw wood behind the box which means my foam insulation guys missed the bottom corner of the room when they did the job last year. I'm hoping that by squirting some low expansion insulation plus these outlet covers will do the trick.
  7 answers
  • Celeste R Celeste R on Dec 28, 2012
    I believe every little bit helps. These little insulating covers cost a couple of $$$ and it couldn't hurt. I have read that they can prevent some air leaks in those areas that we normally don't think twice about.
  • 3po3 3po3 on Dec 28, 2012
    Totally agree. That's not paranoid. It's smart, in my book.
  • These are great inventions. I use them all the time when I do energy upgrades in homes. Worth every penny and save a lot more.
  • Dee W Dee W on Dec 28, 2012
    We have used them in our home, too. They do make a small difference and each one does add up!
  • Kelly S Kelly S on Dec 31, 2012
    I use them on all the exterior wall outlets and switches.
  • That is great kelly S However you should also use them on the interior walls as well. Just because you do not feel cold air around them, air is moving in and out of the wall and up through the attic levels. Anything you can do to prevent this air movement will go a long way in saving you energy.
  • Kelly S Kelly S on Jan 01, 2013
    Didn't think about that. specially since most inside walls don't have insulation in them. Now I need to inventory what I need and pick some up later this week.