Author Topic: Selling Lamps  (Read 2209 times)

aidanhh

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Selling Lamps
« on: October 11, 2010, 06:33:29 am »
Hi there, I'm new and very excited to have found this forum!

I have a question about selling antique lamps on ebay (and anywhere else for that matter!) I was hoping someone may be able to answer it to me.

I've been rewiring antique (mainly art-deco) lamps for a little while now. And some I'd like to sell on ebay. But I've heard and seen all kinds of beliefs regarding selling rewired lamps with and without a plug... Does anyone know the law is, or the rules are, regarding this? If you rewire a lamp, can you sell it rewired with a plug? Or is that a no-no?

Thank you for all your help!



fancypants

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Re: Selling Lamps
« Reply #1 on: October 11, 2010, 12:32:08 pm »
Here's my opinion , aidanhh :

Most people who buy lamps want to use them as lamps .

High on the list(s) of concerns for rewired/restored electric lamps include -

Is the wiring 'vintage' replacement/restoration hardware , or has an item been rewired with actual 'period' wiring (there's much that can be 'wrong' with period wiring , including asbestos & deteriorated insulation , even if it's vintage wire from an un-used spool) .

Use of the proper gauge of wire & hardware for the application , especially with multi-bulb lamps .

The most important thing , provided that all of the above have been considered about the general condition of a lamp , is wiring the lamp with proper polarity (& using a replacement plug that only can be used in one direction - one wide blade , one 'thinner' blade prong on the plug) .
The problem is that many household 120vac receptacles (in the U.S.) are wired 'backwards' .

Improperly reversing the polarity of an electric lamp can electrify any metal parts of the lamp that are in physical contact with the 'hot' lead (usually the barrel 'socket' of the lamp) .... this could lead to electric shock , or worse .

Simple way to avoid liability would be to explain how the lamp was rewired (properly) & include a disclaimer/statement of non-liabilty for you , the seller .
" Methinks me the 'mental' in sentimental .... "

waywardangler

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Re: Selling Lamps
« Reply #2 on: October 11, 2010, 10:42:26 pm »
If you are doing this as a business for resale, I think fancypants' idea on liability deserves some merit.  I would look into what your locality (state, city, etc.) requires and see if you must be licensed to do this rewiring.  Liability is a big concern and one job gone awry could wipe you out monetarily.  Before you take the plunge, I would do the homework.