Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

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tonype

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I often see, in my inspection business, the use of adaptors that screw into a lampholder to convert the light socket to 2 or more 2-prong outlets. This modification is often in older garages, where an occupant decided to install a motorized opener for the vehicle door and did not have an outlet. In most cases, a 3-to-2 prong adaptor is also used :eek: , since the opener contains a 3-prong power cord.

My question: Is there any code reference on using screw-in adaptors (I was once told that these adaptors are not legit) to convert the lampholder to outlets?

Thanks,
Tony
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

Originally posted by pierre:
"410.47 Screw-Shell Type.
Lampholders of the screw-shell type shall be installed for use as lampholders only."
Click to expand...
Does "installed for use as..." also prohibit the homeowner from doing this after the installation? One could argue that this requirement covers the installation, not future use (or abuse).
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

In my opinion the NEC does not apply to the end user, other than in extreme cases like vending machines and extension cords.

This is when local building and occupancy codes are required.
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

Sorry about the previous reply - I hit the wrong button and just copied a previous post.

Anyway, what I am getting out of this is that the screw in adaptor (nice photos of the laundrry and refrigeration relics) is not allowed during initial installation, but is OK for a homeowner to installed? How about the contractor installing the motorized opener? I know this is a gray area, but where does the code "end" in this case?

Tony
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

What is the nameplate rating of the door opener and how large is this lighting circuit (15A or 20A)?

There is a prohibition on putting fastened-in-place equipment that draws more than 50% of a circuit's capacity on that circuit if that circuit also has lights or receptacles.

There is also an amp limit on most lampholders (around 600W I believe). Does the door opener exceed that?

[ December 21, 2005, 11:08 AM: Message edited by: suemarkp ]
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

I typically see 1/3 (about 6 amps) to 1/2 HP (about 8 to 9 amps) motors on the openers - more than 600 watts for sure.

Another thing that I am losing sight of is that these adaptors only provide 2-prong capabilities, creating the need to either remove the grounding prong from the power cord (seen that a bunch of times :eek: ) or using the 3-to-2 prong adaptor and let the ground prong hang in the breeze.

I guess, from these replies, that the adaptor is not specifically prohibited. However, I will still use my standard phrase when I come across installations like I described - "retain the services of a licensed electrical contractor to perform the needed modifications to correct this hazardous condition".

Regards,
Tony
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

Originally posted by tonype:

I guess, from these replies, that the adaptor is not specifically prohibited.

However, I will still use my standard phrase when I come across installations like I described - "retain the services of a licensed electrical contractor to perform the needed modifications to correct this hazardous condition".

Regards,
Tony
Click to expand...
Yes Tony it is a violation of 250 to use an adaptor for a garage door opener.

Your second sentence says it all, hire an electrician.

There is no way to police the homeowner doing this type of installation but it can be policed when the contractor starts doing this type of installation.

There is a thread going on about whether or not to turn in a contractor for not complying to the code on a job where inspectors will visit. I leave this decision to that person, but a installation done by a contractor such as the one you have ask about will cause me to call the licensing board in a second.

Please forgive my joking around with this, I should have given a serious answer first.
:)
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

They're not part of the fixture. Our liability stops at the lampholder itself. No different from undercabinet lights that are plugged in. Not our responsibility. I, personally, have one of those devices in my van...just in case I need it while on a job. I have had to pull it out and use it on occasion.
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

We agree that using these for heavy loads is poor practice, but at least a garage door opener load is intermittent. They were used extensively in the days when a room had no receptacles and a single socket on the ceiling or on a drop cord.

Still come in handy at times.
 
Re: Screw-in adaptors in lampholders

Were not in the business of worrying about what anyone, let alone a homeowner may do after we are finished with an installation. Speaking about what they may do is a waste of our time.
The device in question is not listed, and is not permitted for use or installation by professional people such as us.

Next thread please :D
 
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