Insulate sockets and switches against drafts
Run your hand in front of your grips on a windy day. Do you feel the cold? This is a major thermal leak.
Recommended Materials
- Screwdriver
- Insulation gaskets for sockets (foam)
- Silicone (optional)
Steps to follow
Step 1
The Diagnosis (The Hand Test): On a cold, windy day, run your hand in front of your electrical outlets and switches (especially those on exterior walls). If you feel a wisp of cold air, air is flowing through the electrical ducts from the garage, attic or outside. This is an invisible but significant thermal loss.
Step 2
The simple solution (Foam seals): There are insulation kits for sockets (small pre-cut foam seals).
Step 3
1. SAFETY FIRST: Turn off power at the applicable circuit breaker or fuse. Check that there is no more juice by plugging in a lamp.
Step 4
2. Disassemble: Unscrew the faceplate of the socket or switch (often a screw in the middle or clips on the sides).
Step 5
3. Insulate: Place the foam gasket behind the faceplate, or better, between the metal mechanism and the wall if you can. The goal is to create a seal between the housing and the part.
Step 6
4. Reassemble: Screw the facade back on. Restore power.
Step 7
The DIY solution (Silicone): If the air comes directly from the orange tube (the ICTA sheath) at the bottom of the case, you can put a tiny bit of acrylic or silicone sealant at the entrance to the tube to block the air inlet. CAUTION: do not drown the wires in the silicone, you should be able to remove them one day. Just plug the hole around the wires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Waterproof cases ?
If you are renovating the electricity, it is essential to install 'airtight' flush-mounting boxes (with soft rubber membranes to pass the wires). This is the current standard (RT2012/RE2020) and it is radical against air leaks.
Precautions
- It is imperative to cut the power.
- Do not put expanding foam in the ducts (prohibited).
