Okay, full disclosure: I know next to nothing about electronics. Just trying out my first little amateur diy project: adding lights to my vanity. So here goes my question.
I just bought 2 little clip-on "ETL-listed" lamps to clamp onto the top of my vanity, but they have rotary switches instead of in-line cord switches so it will be hard to reach up to turn them off easily. I'll need a longer cord for one of them anyway, so I was thinking to kill two birds with one stone and get a power strip/surge protector to use as an on/off switch as well instead of turning off their individual switches. My question: Would that be a bad idea??
Because I know you're not supposed to do that with computers, but I don't know if that applies to lamps too. I'm mainly worried about starting an electrical fire, not so much the cheap lamps. The 2 lamps take only one 60-watt bulb each if that's important (planning to use the SORAA A19 11-watt-usage, 60-watt-equivalent LED bulbs).
Oh and side note, it's a wooden (expensive) vanity- is it still okay to attach lamps if that's the case?? The lamps have rubber-coated clamps, and I'm using LED lights, but I'm slightly worried about it turning into a fire hazard.
I have a 30-day return policy on these lamps. Any info/advice is appreciated!! Thanks!!!!
Update 1 (to address questions in comments): It's a bedroom vanity.
Update 2 (to address questions in comments): in TX, USA.
Best Answer
In most cases, simple switches are equivalent. They break the circuit and do nothing else. So switching (breaking the circuit) further down the line is usually fine.
There are some exceptions, such as dimmers, multi-position switches, and multi-pole switches, none of which seem in play here.
The computer is different because it need to be shut down (program exited) rather than simply turned off. And some computers never really turn off but keep a very low power program running to allow fast start or remote update or activation.
The use of LED bulbs in a socket that is properly rated for incandescent bulbs will likely not generate any dangerous heat when properly mounted. ETL seems to be similar to UL safety listing. You do need to check if the mounting instructions specify minimum clearances.
The only risk you may face is possible damage to the finish of the vanity after long term grip by the rubber coated clamps. Some rubbers and plastics break down or give off solvents over time.