just a quick wiring question

[chadsy]

I had a couple of fixtures that recently crapped out on me. I have two spaces like the attached pictures indicates that are both wired to the same switch.

Would I be able to install a couple of outlets on these and then plug in fluorescent lights and run them this way?

Thanks in advance for any comments and advice! I've been learning a lot from my short time in this site.

 

[Speedy Petey]

Yes you can, but if this is in a garage they must be GFI protected. This can be done several ways.

 

[jlmotox]

Yes you can wire an outlet or a fixture, the only problem you might run into is the box in the ceiling is different for fixtures and outlets...nothing you can't swap out just a little more work is all. Looks like 14-2 Romex wire you have there now so 15amp outlet would be the one you want, but check local elec code to be sure some may say 20amp is ok...

 

[66dave]

Yep, black wires are live (gold color screws on the receptical), white are neutral (silver color screws on the receptical), bare is ground (bottom green color screw on the receptical). I would remove that box and put in a old work receptical box.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Most of you folks make me wonder. Everyone is suggesting swapping out the box, which is a major hassle. It might not even be possible if the OP doesn't have access to above it. All he needs to do is find a round box cover that accepts a duplex receptacle, and connect it up. You can even buy the cover with the receptacle already mounted in it.

Why suggest ways that are so difficult when there are easy and simple ways to solve it?

Charles

 

[chadsy]

Most of you folks make me wonder. Everyone is suggesting swapping out the box, which is a major hassle. It might not even be possible if the OP doesn't have access to above it. All he needs to do is find a round box cover that accepts a duplex receptacle, and connect it up. You can even buy the cover with the receptacle already mounted in it.

Why suggest ways that are so difficult when there are easy and simple ways to solve it?

Charles

Thanks, Charles. This is exactly what I was thinking about.

Yes you can, but if this is in a garage they must be GFI protected. This can be done several ways.

This is indeed in my garage. I will do some research into getting them GFI protected.

Yes you can wire an outlet or a fixture, the only problem you might run into is the box in the ceiling is different for fixtures and outlets...nothing you can't swap out just a little more work is all. Looks like 14-2 Romex wire you have there now so 15amp outlet would be the one you want, but check local elec code to be sure some may say 20amp is ok...

15 amp it is!

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Decora/GFCI also.

If nothing else, get a blank that covers the hole and start whittling and drilling.

 

[Zeke]

If all you're going to do is use those for light fixtures, maybe direct or hard wire the fixtures to the boxes with the right connections (no cords).

I think 2 things are in your favor here by doing that, but I'm not the code police.
1. You won't need GFCI
2. You are grandfathered to what the house had when built assuming it is as new as it looks.

 

[chadsy]

Sorry for sounding like such an amateur but I think going the route as outlined in this video may be in my best interest.

How to Install Fluorescent Lights, Part Two - The Home Depot

Looks like I should have done my research but I did have the opportunity to learn something new from everyone

 

[bwillis]

what no bushing needed on the fixture! ( in video)

 

[pattenp]

Oh yes..... a bushing is needed.

what no bushing needed on the fixture! ( in video)

 

[Jim B]

Do you need a box in the ceiling or can you just install a clamp/bushing thingy in the light fixture and run the romex directly into the light fixture?

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Yes you can wire an outlet or a fixture, the only problem you might run into is the box in the ceiling is different for fixtures and outlets...nothing you can't swap out just a little more work is all. Looks like 14-2 Romex wire you have there now so 15amp outlet would be the one you want, but check local elec code to be sure some may say 20amp is ok...

You cannot put a 20a outlet on a 15a circuit!

 

[sberry]

I personally would skip the gfci in the ceiling.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Unless its getting inspected!

 

[98ssuck]

Why not put a bottomless octanginal box on the existing box and the. Run conduit or Bx to a fluorescent light. IMO that would look nice than a receptacle on your ceiling.