Can I change a direct wire light to a plug-in?

Hello All,

I have a found a great outdoor light that I want to use indoor, but it is a direct wire. Is there a way to convert it to use a plug?

Thanks,

Craig

 

I know the "it depends" answer isn't what you want, but what type light is it? Does it have a solid backing? Does it sit on something, or hang on the wall? Let us know the brand and style of light and maybe we can come up with some sort of solution for you.

 

This is the light I am looking to add a switch to. I want to mount it over an aquarium in a canopy for lighting. It is a large aquarium with living plants and fish and needs the extra boost in light.

Fluorescent Flood Light at Home Depot

 

Can the bulbs match the needs of the plants as far as light spectrum? And the heat that flood lights put out may also be a consideration. You know how delicate fish can be.
Yeah I know aquarium light fixtures are expensive. But at least you know what they do.
I'm not an aquarium expert and you might have already considered all of this. I'm just dropping it in there.

 

Yep, that is why I chose fluorescent and not halogen.
The other stuff is fine as well.
Thanks for asking!

 

There is a proper flourscent luminaire that work in your fish tank and they are designed to work with this situation.

I know they cost little more than what you list with your link there and I know couple of them do have very powerfull flourscent some case they will have metal halide bulbs as well.

Merci,Marc

 

I think I'd consider a couple more things before purchasing after seeing the manufacturer. First, does Home Depot offer a replacement lamp? I didn't see the lamp catalog number listed at the link you provided, but the picture of the fixture gives me the idea that this is a rare lamp and possibly an OEM only lamp. Home Depot has be known to sell fixtures and ceiling fans (even their own private labelled fans) before that they could not get replacement lamps for. Second, how were you planning on eliminating the photcell?


I think I'd keep looking for a different fixture more suitable to what you want to do with it.

 

Casual Joe, thanks for pointing that out. I had not seen that and it may be a problem. The light / lamp is available separately. I have been bitten by a similar problem before.

Perhaps a slightly different tack. The light they use is a 65 watt fluorescent that has a four prong plug on only one side and does not have a connector on the other side like most other fluorescent lights. Is there a way to build my own fluorescent light using this particular lamp/light?

 

Replacement ballasts even if available often cost more then the light. In this case the ballast may be an OEM circuit board not available separately. Then you have to find a socket for the bulb and build a housing.

 

Sounds like my options are rapidly dwindling. Thanks for everyone's input. If anyone can come up with another idea please let me know.

Thanks,

Craig