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# System prepended metadata

title: 'Wall Socket Spacers: When & Why Do You Need One'

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# Wall Socket Spacers: When & Why Do You Need One
When thinking of home improvement, you often assume it only involves a backsplash, tiles, or shiplap. But you forget one tiny detail: wall sockets. It is where [wall socket spacers](https://www.myswitchshop.com/electrical-accessories/pattress-wall-boxes-spacers.html) come in, making a significant difference in the safety and appearance of electrical outlets.  
  
**What are spacers for the socket?**  
  
Spacers for wall sockets are also called box extenders. They usually come in small plastic pieces or in rubber format to adjust the depth of your electrical outlet. Your electric technician uses a spacer to fill the gap between the outlet and the electrical box. For instance, if your wall surface is extended due to a tile, wood panel, or drywall, you should use a wall box extender.  
  
Why? Without spacers, the outlet will sit far back in your wall, making it difficult to use and hazardous for kids and pets. Furthermore, loose sockets wobble and strain the wire, resulting in a fire hazard.  
  
**When do you need a spacer?**  
  
You need [socket spacers](https://www.myswitchshop.com/electrical-accessories/pattress-wall-boxes-spacers.html) when the wall surface is thicker. Some instances include:  
  

*   Installing tile backsplash in the kitchen
*   Planning to add a wood panel or shiplap
*   Installing wallpaper or veneer
*   Layering drywall for soundproofing
*   Insulating older homes

If you feel that the electric outlet is not in line with your wall plate or has become loose over time, it is a sign to add a spacer.  
  
**Why should you add a spacer?**  
  
You should not mistake a socket spacer as a cosmetic addition. Instead, it helps maintain a secure connection, reducing the possibility of short circuits. Moreover, many building codes require outlets to have spacers. Additionally, flush outlets look neat as the outlet cover sits evenly against your wall surface.  
  
You should consider adding a spacer, as it reduces the risk of wobbliness and prevents further loosening of the outlet or wall plate.  
  
In a nutshell, a spacer is budget-friendly and available in multi-packs. Moreover, you can trim it to the exact size you wish. It can save you time, frustration, and various safety issues.  
  
**About MySwitchShop:**  
  
MySwitchShop is a trusted company for homeowners for reliable, premium, and high-quality accessories. The store offers a collection of electrical accessories, including a [black pull cord switch](https://www.myswitchshop.com/electrical-accessories/pull-switches.html), gang switches, wax boxes and spacers, and pull switches. You can also find the clearance section on the website to find accessories on a budget.  
  
To get more details, visit [https://www.myswitchshop.com/](https://www.myswitchshop.com/) 

Original Source: [https://bit.ly/4kW5Dfs](https://bit.ly/4kW5Dfs)