Outlet Insulators

When builders put in fiberglass insulation in the past there was no vapor seal and the batts sometimes could get wet. Air could could then get in the walls through cracks or crevices in the exterior, either siding or stucco, and make channels in the fiberglass which is supposed to prevent heat from escaping.

If cold air can get into the walls it can find its way into the home through areas once thought protected by the insulation: electrical outlets.

Companies have come up with foam templates to put between the cover and the outlet. This successfully prevents air from getting from the wall switches but does not necessarily stop all of it. Air can get through the connectors in the plug socket. However, leave it to the child safety people to have the answer.

To prevent a child from sticking a knife or such a metallic object like it into the socket they make plastic piece with two prongs. The prongs are inserted into the slots in the plug and the child cannot access the AC current.

By putting these protectors into the plugs in the fall cold air is prevented from entering the home all winter long.