This year I installed one of my favorite boat improvements… a light in the cooler box(fridge). Makes it much easier to find what you are looking for without having to reach for a flashlight.
It all started when I saw a thin, 3ml thick, 4" x 8" led panel light in the discount bin at a local marine store, cost CA$10. I then went to my local electronic hobbyist shop for a switch. They suggested a magnetic switch, cost CA$2.50. Wire at marine store cost CA$16. Total cost CA$28.50, plus tax.
I attached the light to far side upper wall of fridge with double sided tape. Positioned the two pieces of the magnetic switch to the left side of the lid near the hinge, also with double sided tape. When confirmed in the correct spot, screwed the switch in place.
Light works great. I can see that it goes off as the lid closes, so no worries of it being left on. Plus its wired to port side interior lights breaker.
I have to confess that I’m jealous for not having thought of it. Now that you’ve planted the idea, I can think of a number of other spots on the boat where I’ll want to do this.
I probably should be a better person, but I still can’t resist piling on after Ron. So I have to chip in and say that I found your post, “Illuminating,” Don.
A lot of bright lights in this group. I am thinking the idea could be transferred to the lockers on board. Every time I go to put on the light in a locker I find I have left the light on after the last use and the 3 AAA batteries have been drained.
One of the things I’ve always had trouble with is getting the right placement for parts on doors that have to mate just so.
What was your trick for getting the two pieces of the magnetic switch to line up? If I’d been doing it, I’m sure I would’ve gotten the piece on the side of the fridge too high or too low.
Bob, the short answer is double sided tape. 3M makes a thin Scotch tape like double sided tape. Available at Staples, Michaels Art, Amazon, etc. I first used it to temporarily place the two halves of the switch, then once tested and happy with their location, screwed them in place. The magnetic switch pieces don’t have to contact each other, just be reasonably close. There’s just enough room at edge of cooler lid to attach one piece of the switch on the side. Here’s another photo of the switch pieces, see left side.
Charles, sorry I don’t recall, it was a no-name brand chinese product, packaging is long gone. There’s plenty of similar lights out there, just Google “12vdc low profile led panel light”. Lights like these are used for boats and RV’s. I see similar lights on Amazon for $10-$20.
