Switched Fixture to Outlet? with GDO?

[duster7286]

Redoing the garage and I got rid of the garage door opener "extension cord" as it is frowned upon by all. Right behind the GDO is a single bulb fixture controlled by light switch in the front of the garage. I would also like to install a 4ft T8 fixture as well.

Can I convert the fixture to an outlet and plug the GDO and a hanging T8 in there? Any issues with leaving the switch always ON and using the pull cord on the shoplight?

My other option was to hard wire a T8 and install a three way switch in the back of garage-and use extension cord again for GDO??

Suggestions? Thanks for the help!!!!!!

 

[pattenp]

Not knowing what all is on that circuit and its size it's hard to say. But for the most part doing what you're asking is okay. Typically GDO's should be put on a 20A circuit.

Edit: If the power source is switched at the fixture you can split the outlet and switch one side for the light.

 

[eljefino]

I would hardwire a T8 then run a short (surface mount) conduit over to the garage door opener. You could hide some of the "conduit length" in the length of the flourescent fixture "box" if you so desire. It would look clean and industrial. I assume you have sheetrock ceiling you don't want to mess up too much? Can you get into the attic space?

What brand opener do you have? You might be able to "hack" it and get a multi-button remote that only turns the light on and off without opening the door, and have it run the flourescent too, and for longer than the 4 minute timer.