Light Fixture Conversions and Electrical Safety

';	I want to convert a brand new hard wire fixture to a plug in – is this safe to do? © By: Dave Rongey

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How to Know if Light Fixture Conversions Are Safe
Background: Mara, a Homeowner from
[ad#block]Question: I want to convert a brand new hard wire fixture to a plug in. The fixture has a white, black & ground wire. Also a ceramic base for the 60 watt incandescent bulb. The instructions say to connect with wiring rated for at least 167 degrees F. Can I use 2 wire lamp cord? What about the ground wire? Can I put the switch on the cord? Is this safe to do?

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Mara.
Mara your last question was the most important – is this safe to do? The answer is this – If this fixture is designed to be hard wired, that is connected using electrical conduit or to mount to an electrical junction box then you should not convert it.Â When the design of a light fixture has been altered or the wiring of the fixture has been changed where it no longer provides circuit integrity , safety and grounded protection then a conversion should not be performed. Understandably, I have not detailed information to go by, so this is the best advise I can provide for you.

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Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.