Retractable spotlight?

[StriderTB]

I'm batting around an idea, and I'd like to see if you guys think it makes any sense. I just finished rewiring and drywalling my garage, and I mounted an extra outlet in the ceiling near the center of my 2 car garage for a retractable drop light. I was thinking about the potential for a different kind of retractable light, something like a pentant light wired to a retractable reel. I could place hooks in the ceiling of strategic spots in the garage, like above my workbench, or in either bay, and then I could hang the retractable light from those hooks for some extra lighting if needed.

I have an old enameled round gymnasium style light fixture that the old owner of my house left behind, and while this might be a bit large for that kind of project, it's what gave me the idea. Similar to this light fixture:

http://www.barnlightelectric.com/po...sky-chief-16-warehouse-porcelain-pendant.html

Is it overkill?

 

[gatchel]

First of all, this is Garagejournal.com, nothing is overkill.

Here are my thoughts:

You may find that areas where you are using light all of the time might be better served by dedicated lighting.

I don't see that type of light being convenient for under hood or under dash work but to each their own. Just don't scratch any paint.

Otherwise, have at it. If it works for you, that's all that matters.

 

[StriderTB]

I have some T5HO lights that are pretty evenly spaced, so that'll take up the bulk of the lighting work. That, and some under wall cabinet LED workbench lighting should round things out.

Although, it could come in handy as a nice, intimidating interrogation light.

 

[Stuart in MN]

I haven't seen one for a long time, but in the 1960s it seemed like every other home had a retractable ceiling light fixture over the dining room table. The cord had an egg shaped device in the middle with a spring mechanism, you'd simply push the fixture up or down and it would stay where you put it.

They looked like this, you could maybe find one on a garage sale and then use the cord on a newer fixture and reflector.

 

[Jeff]

I have a cord reel on the ceiling. I can add a light when I need it, but most importantly I also have 2 extra outlets. It has a 30 foot reach so it's gets everywhere I need it to be.