Is this kosher?

[reinhardt]

When I was house hunting I saw a closet w/ a light in it that came on when u open the door. The switch for the light was a push in switch on the door frame similiar to the switch on a car door. I didnt buy that house, but i liked the idea and would like to do that w/ the hall closet in my house. So, my question is: was that a nec approved switch, or something someone rigged up? It didnt look rigged, but i'm not sure...

 

[dkroth]

My FIL's previous house had the same arrangement in the laundry closet. No idea if it's code. The house was built well, in my opinion and the switch was in there when he bought it. House was probably built in the 1950's.

 

[cowboy73]

Don't know about code either but they used to sell them just for that purpose back in the day. You could probably still buy them at electrical supply store.

 

[cowboy73]

I found it:

http://www.qualitydoor.com/Trine-340-Electric-Door-Switch-p-718.html

I would assume it's up to code if installed correctly.

 

[reinhardt]

you guys move quick! i've been thinking about this for a couple monthes and u all answer the question, w/ link, in 15 minutes! thanks again garage journal!

 

[cowboy73]

You're welcome. Glad to be of help.

 

[Ford12508]

If there is any problem with that, you could always install one of those movement sensing outlets inside the closet where it could see the door swing open.

 

[mrb]

Leviton and others make door jamb plunger switches for this purpose

 

[cowboyjosh]

Yep its alright, just as long as your closet light fixture meets code for closets, check with your AHJ for specifics. I can tell you to retro in a door jamb switch its a real PITA, most jamb switches I install are done during new construction.

 

[CraigFL]

I put these in my home for people who can't remember to turn the light off!

 

[ddawg16]

A slight variation....add a timer to it.....then if someone forgets to close the door...the light will turn off automatically after a set period of time....say 30 min or what ever you set it to.

 

[burleymike]

I wish I had got one of these when I built out closet. My wife does not know how to turn lights off. On the other hand I can't remember to flush the toilet or put the seat down

 

[jkeyser14]

Yep its alright, just as long as your closet light fixture meets code for closets, check with your AHJ for specifics.

Is there anything in the NEC about closet lights (since that's what a lot of places use)?

Edit: Nevermind, I found it. 6"-12" clearance depending on the type of light to the nearest shelf / bracket / hanger and you basically can't have exposed bulbs.