wall switch location w/ french doors

[RustyShackleford]

A question about the location for a wall switch (for overhead lights), in a room with inward-opening French exterior doors ... I don't believe it's a code issue, just convenience, but I've never dealt with this situation before. Doors open inwards - as you walk in from outside, the right-hand one is the "primary" (the other CAN be opened, but is fixed normally). Seems like two options are to put it in the normal location, but next to the normally-fixed door (so a couple feet to person's left as they enter), or put it to the right of the primary door, but beyond the swing of the door. (Of course there will be another switch inside the entrance from the rest of the house).

 

[iwire]

As far as the NEC is concerned all that is required is a wall switch, the location is up to the installer.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I agree with Bob. Put the switch where the customer wants it and there should be no problem. I usually put it on the wall opposite the normally operable door- in other words, next to the stationary door

 

[RustyShackleford]

Like I said, I know it's not a code issue, but customer isn't sure and wanted me to advise, and I wasn't sure either. Next to the stationary door makes sense to me though. Thanks.

 

[charlie b]

In addition to the conventional switch near the door, add an occupancy sensor for which the aim includes the door itself. That way, the lights will come on as a person enters the house from that door.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

In addition to the conventional switch near the door, add an occupancy sensor for which the aim includes the door itself. That way, the lights will come on as a person enters the house from that door.

Then when you sit down to read the lights go off on you. :thumbsdown:

 

[charlie b]

You can set up an OS that has no function other than to turn on the lights. You can keep the "lights off feature" as a manual-only control. Of course, you will have invited at least one line-voltage relay to the party, and perhaps a different type of swith on the wall.