touch switch lamp via copper heating pipe?

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luv2liv

Diamond Member
Dec 27, 2001
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i really like the idea of a touch switch turning things on and off as seen in these instructions: http://www.instructables.com/id/Sim...tep6/Wiring-the-Switch-READ-THE-INSTRUCTIONS/

i have an LED strip glued to the copper heating pipe of the house (the pipes are exposed not hidden behind sheetrock). i could turn the light on with a switch. however, i decide to fancy it up a bit by turning it on/off with using a touch switch... now, it is safe to wire it up so that i can just turn on/off by touching the copper pipe? is this safe? will the house burn down?

thanks!
 

bryanl

Golden Member
Oct 15, 2006
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It may not work since the copper heating pipe is grounded, and for safety it should be. Touch switches rely on body capacitance and require the touch surface to not be grounded.
 

luv2liv

Diamond Member
Dec 27, 2001
3,500
94
91
It may not work since the copper heating pipe is grounded, and for safety it should be. Touch switches rely on body capacitance and require the touch surface to not be grounded.

oh now i know. thanks!
 
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