Truu's electrical help thread.

Howdy folks.

This thread will be dedicated to any of your electrical needs. Whether it be a question about your growing setup, or if you just need help around the house. I have many years of electrical experience in residential, commercial, and industrial fields.

Just ask your question as detailed as possible, throw in some pics if needed. The more info I can get, the better I can understand what you need. It is also a good idea to let me know if you are from over seas, for I am not lol.

 

[ReNN]

^^Thanks for the reply. Can you post a pic of the ip67 120v cable connector/junction box you are recommending?

I found a how to for diy LED lights by growmau and he recommended the Wago style connectors... I used those and haven't found any unusual heating in the wiring but am open to re-visiting.

It would work, it's just dangerous as a free air line voltage splice. Especially in a "damp/wet location" like a grow operation. Just be careful, more people die in the US from 120v than any other voltage. It's the amperage that kills you not the voltage. Stay safe and good luck on the grow. You have any pics of your girls.

 

[OGWallyAZDesert]

Howdy folks.

This thread will be dedicated to any of your electrical needs. Whether it be a question about your growing setup, or if you just need help around the house. I have many years of electrical experience in residential, commercial, and industrial fields.

Just ask your question as detailed as possible, throw in some pics if needed. The more info I can get, the better I can understand what you need. It is also a good idea to let me know if you are from over seas, for I am not lol.

Hi 'TRUU' (aka Mr. Expert Electrician):

I have a some electrical questions:

Electrical System where I live: 120 VAC - Phoenix, AZ, USA)

1.) Can I run 3 lights (1 @ 1000 watts HPS, 1 @ 600 watts HPS, & 1 @ 400 watts MH) on one 20 amperes rated circuit, safely? Here is the math & calculations I have come up with below but I want to be sure & safe, so as to not have a fire and end up with issues:

1000 + 600 + 400 = 2000 watts divided by 120 Volts = 16.67 amperes

So I should be safe (within electrical limits of the circuit) , right? Or do I need to allow for additional headroom? What's your thoughts being an expert in the electrical field? Any and all thoughts would be greatly appreciated?

2.) Where are you located (city & state)?

 

[420master]

I am NOT an electrician, but the short answer is no. I would not recommend it.
You are not supposed to exceed 80% (20x.80=16amps) of the breakers rated capacity continuously, and the outlet is likely only rated for 15 amps unless the left prong looks different from the right. You would also have to account for anything else like fans/cooling and air or water pumps. If fans, coolers, or any pumps exist, those would need to be considered unless they would be on another circuit.
You can get much more efficient lights and use a lot less power. Look at power ratings before you buy any equipment and make sure you aren't buying something that uses too much energy.

If you were to do something like that, I would suggest you keep an eye on your wiring and make sure nothing melts and watch the breaker and make sure it doesn't overheat and melt. If the breaker is in bad shape, it may fail.