Electrical question

[Pigeons420]

Looking to run my grow room on its own breaker.

I have an available 15 amp spot on my panel.

In my grow room I have:

1) 1000W HPS
2) 2 fans
3) water reseviour running a fish pump
4) inline 240 CFM fan
5) a veg cabinet with 8 CFLs a computer fan and t5 bulb
6) 250W metal halide

Both lights controlled by ballasts.

Please help with experienced advice. Thanks a million

 

[go4snypr]

The 1000watt HPS draws about 9 amps I believe. With the metal halide probably around 2-3 amps, so I would bet you would be running right on the edge of blowing that breaker once everything is running.

 

[BBD32]

I was in a similar situation and ended up having my breaker blown twice. I was running 2-1000w hps and an oscillating fan on a 20amp. I won't make that mistake again.

 

[voluntaryJoe]

I agree with the previous posters:

1000W / 120V = 8.333 amps

+

250W / 120V = 2.083 amps

8.333 + 2.083 = 10.416 Amps

Assuming the loads are to be operated for 3 or more hours continuously, they must be overrated in order to allow the circuit to effectively dissipate the heat. The NEC advises a 125% overrate for continuous load so:


10.416 * 1.25 = 13.02 amps

That would only allow 1.98 amps for the rest of your equipment...

For safety (especially fire prevention) at least 2 circuits or more would be best. If you can figure the amp draw for each of your loads it would be best to balance them across your available circuits, IMO.

 

[Weaselcracker]

Pigeons, I like to put my lights on their own dedicated breaker(s). I like to know I have a secure power source for my lights, which is going to remain constant. The 1000w and the 260 would be ok as a maximum, on one dedicated breaker. Then, if possible, put the other appliances elsewhere? Basically- you have too much draw to comfortably put on one 15 amp.

 

[dr.h00k]

...also...don't try to up the size of the breaker to accomodate Yer needs using a breaker that exceeds the capacity of the wire, is dangerous. The wire can overheat, and cause fire. For example, a 15 amp breaker should not be on any lighter wire than 14 gauge. 20 amp with 12 gauge, etc. ...h00k...

 

[Pigeons420]

You guys are all genius! Thank you!

I went a head and put my room and the lights on 3 different breakers. Wow what an upgrade!!

You guys are far to kind to help a guy out. You each earned your pathway to heaven today. Thank you!