My T-5 light switch doesnt work help please.

[Royalty]

I just got this light last week. I tried removing my wood canopy from my tank and noticed that the light went out it . I hit the on/off switch but got nothing it feels very loose . I took it apart and found the problem the switch had snap some how? I went to radioshack but didnt find anything that would work. I dont have internet I using my phone to talk to you guys and get help metro suchs when it comes to internet service. anyways the light is a U.S.A current i think? two bulb fixture I just need to know where to get the replacement off/on switch I tried lowes and staples radio shack no luck. help me please.

 

[JohnK]

Most likely you can just splice the wires together to bypass the switch. IMO that is a fine solution since you really want a timer controlling your light cycle anyway.

 

[Royalty]

i found a replacement in one of my old florecent fixture it worked great but it was welded so not very easy to work with. I was thinking maybe my LPS might have something but im not sure I dont know how to splice it.

 

[JohnK]

How many wires go into the switch? If it's just 2, you should be able to just twist the ends together and wrap that with electrical tape to bypass the switch.

IF YOU DO TRY THIS, OBVIOUSLY BE CAREFUL.

-Unpug the fixture
-connect the wires together
-put the fixture back together
-find a wall outlet that has a seperate On/off switch
-turn the wall switch off
-plug in the light fixture
(make sure your not touching or close to the fixture)
-flip the wall switch on
*have a spare fuse on hand just in case

 

[joelg]

Ok I cant sit here and read this without saying spliced wires electrical tape and water is a BAD combination if not down right dangerous
just my opinion

 

[JohnK]

True, like I said, BE CAREFUL.

If the splice is the fix, it should be well sealed/isolated from saltwater. Don't do it if you don't feel confident with this sort of thing. My earlier posts made it sound overly safe/easy.

 

[Royalty]

i could just wrap some electrical tape around the on/off switch of my old florescent fixture and theres only two wires but im not sure I feel ok with jimmying it. no pun intended jimmy. Id rather just buy the peace that goes with it.

 

[JohnK]

Joe is right, be safe. The bypass I suggested can be done, but shouldn't be done casually.

My bad for offering somewhat reckless advice

 

[number1gsxxr]

I think most pets stores that are authorized to sell Current USA products can order one for you.

I'm not sure what light you have but this looks like the part you probably need.
http://www.google.com/products/cata...PUIJOwzAWSo_CTCQ&sa=title&ved=0CAcQ8wIwADgA#p