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Dave Ermeling · Jul 4, 2010, 09:50 AM

I'm trying to install a switch in the 120vac dusk to dawn light by our house. There is a small access door on the pole to get to the wiring. I'm looking to just put in some type of inline switch on the hot leg to keep it as simple as possible. All they had at Home Depot was a small 6 amp rated inline switch. The wires look like 10 or 12 AWG.
Anyone have any ideas on what would be best or where to get a heavy-duty inline switch?

Missouri Bound · Jul 4, 2010, 08:52 PM

Will a simple toggle switch work for you? They fit in a 1/2" hole and many are available with waterproof rubber boots.

creahands · Jul 5, 2010, 05:56 AM

Where do u want to install switch? Inside house or out?

What access do u have to wire?

Chuck

Dave Ermeling · May 8, 2012, 07:07 AM

This is a drawing of what I'm trying to do.

Dave Ermeling · May 8, 2012, 07:11 AM

What kind of switch do I need?

ma0641 · May 8, 2012, 09:30 PM

At 100 watts on a 120 VAC circuit you are drawing less than 1amp. Radio Shack sells SPST switches zthat will work. Why not just use a photo cell?

Dave Ermeling · May 10, 2012, 08:37 AM

ma0641, these are street lights with a photo cell and we want to be able to turn them off occasionally to draw less bugs or for watching fireworks, etc.
The wires are aluminum and probably 8 or 10 AWG.

ma0641 · May 10, 2012, 07:28 PM

The simplest in line heavy duty switch would be a blade type switch. You could also use a battery disconnect but I'm not sure they are AC rated.

Dave Ermeling · May 11, 2012, 06:21 AM

Originally Posted by ma0641

The simplest in line heavy duty switch would be a blade type switch. You could also use a battery disconnect but I'm not sure they are AC rated.

Got any links to any pictures or sites that might show me what type of blade type switch is available?

Stratmando · May 11, 2012, 06:38 AM

How about installing 2 gang weatherproof box with a GFI receptacle and a switch, then a weatherproof cover.
If the wiring is #8 or #10, pigtail a short piece of wire to attach to the switch.
A regular Single Pole Electric will work.

ma0641 · May 11, 2012, 08:28 PM

Radio Sháck has them as do many auto supply stores.

Stratmando · May 12, 2012, 12:11 PM

Maybe you could add a switch at the house. How does this pole light get its power:
Conduit from front door switches?
Outside Electrical Box?

Dave Ermeling · May 14, 2012, 10:40 AM

Originally Posted by Stratmando

Maybe you could add a switch at the house. How does this pole light get its power:
Conduit from front door switches?
Outside Electrical Box?

The wiring I'm doing is on a street light. The power is supplied by a local transformer.

Stratmando · May 14, 2012, 10:49 AM

If it is the Power Companies, you can't touch it.
If it is yours and paying for it,
You could aim a Laser at the photocell to turn it off.
I haven't determined Maximum distance yet.

Dave Ermeling · May 16, 2012, 07:09 PM

Originally Posted by Stratmando

If it is the Power Companies, you can't touch it.
If it is yours and paying for it,
You could aim a Laser at the photocell to turn it off.
I haven't determined Maximum distance yet.

I've already put a plug inline so I can just unplug it but I was trying to make it quicker and easier.
The photo cell is on top of the light so I cannot shine a light or laser at it. Also, then it just keeps coming on again once the light/laser is removed.