Latchkey77
@swbell.net
| Installing light
I bought a light, a 4' floresent light to mount to the ceiling in my closet. I do not have a fixture in there so here is what I wanted to do. I have the light an extension cord and a light switch. I was wondering if I could hook the extension cord to the light, then cut the cord in half and install the light swich then attach the rest of the cord from the light switch to an out let. That way I can use the switch to turn on and off the closet light?
Will this work? |
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dgilbert
Good Bye My Friend
Premium,MVM
join:2002-06-15
none
clubs: | will it work, yes.
is it safe, NO. |
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PhilAIV
join:2002-02-16
Carrollton, GA
clubs:
1 edit | Just do it the right way by running the wire from a breaker with a switch. You'll end up spending a little more time, but end up having it done right from the beggining. |
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BurntCricket
Gotta Do What Ya Gotta Do
Premium
join:2000-09-02
Here
clubs:
 ·RoadRunner Cable
| reply to Latchkey77
Can you do it ? yeah, you CAN do anything that is physically possible.
Is it "safe" ? If done reasonably correct, yes(not to disagree with davidg).
Is it "legal" ? Not even close.
Would I do it ? Not a chance in this world.
You CAN get a chain switch to install in the lamp then plug the lamp into the outlet.
I would go this route.
--
It is better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. |
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whizkid3
Premium,MVM
join:2002-02-21
Queens, NY
·Earthlink Cable Mo..
| reply to Latchkey77
To begin with, you need a light fixture that is rated for closet use. (Typically sealed fixtures with no exposed bulb - flourescent or otherwise.) Next there are very stringent criteria in the electrical code of how fixtures are to be installed in closets. Third, by asking if you can use an extension cord to jury-rig wiring - I can tell you have no experience, and should back away and hire an electrician. You are playing with fire (and your safety).
Or you can go buy a battery operated stick-on fixture that is safe for closets.
Do a search in this forum for 'closet' and 'light'. There are quite a few posts on this subject. |
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Latchkey77
@swbell.net
| reply to Latchkey77
I finished the closet thank you for all of your replies.
First for those of you that said I couldn't do it by my self, Well Anyone can do anything if they put their minds to it! For the rest of you thank you for your advice and This is how I fixed it. I went and bought an inlet switch to attach to the extension cord So I hung the light on the ceiling and hooked up the cord to it and then about half way down the cord I put the inlet switch and then plugged it up behind my TV. It turned out great and looks really good.
Thank You to all |
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TheMG
join:2007-09-04
Edmonton, AB
 ·TELUS
| Extension cords are not to be used for permanent installations, they are approved for temporary use only.
Sure, it may work. If the cord is kept free from damage and wear it may also be reasonably safe.
But... code violation? You bet.
Keep in mind: insurance companies will find ANYTHING they can to refuse to pay up should you ever have a fire, even if it is not caused by this setup. |
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