lighting circuit

[sokkerdude]

Can you put 8 - 250 watt incandescent bulb on a 120 volt/20 amp circuit with a 2000 watt dimmer?
This is for an architect who knows more than a stupid old electrician, Thank you

 

[sokkerdude]

Re: lighting circuit

I said no, but the architect is saying do it.
.

 

[laidman]

Re: lighting circuit

Do the math. I=P/E 2000/120=16.66 amps ok for 20A circuit. but it may be pushing the limit of the dimmer depending where it is installed. I don't like to load dimmers more than 80%. But then thats me.

 

[bphgravity]

Re: lighting circuit

If the lights are continuous loads, a 20-ampere branchg circuit would not be sufficent, but just barely.

 

[rr]

Re: lighting circuit

Originally posted by sokkerdude:
I said no, but the architect is saying do it.
.

You're right. Tell the architect to stay away from electrical calculations.

[ February 24, 2005, 02:00 PM: Message edited by: rr ]

 

[steve66]

Re: lighting circuit

What is the maximum wattage the light fixture is designed for? That is the number you should be using for your calculations.


I agree, even at 250W, thats too much.

Steve

 

[oliver100]

Re: lighting circuit

I agree that the architects "know everytihing", but
I wonder what everybody is afraid of?

17 amps load
20 amps breaker
17 amps dimmer (OK Questionable)

 

[jimwalker]

Re: lighting circuit

Pushing things to the limit will bite you in the end.Perhaps that dimmer already has a safety factor built in,then again maybe at 2001 watts it fails.What if your voltage is a bit on the high limits.Them 8 lamps at 250 watts are at what voltage 115,120,125 ? makes a differance

 

[electricmanscott]

Re: lighting circuit

Depends on the dimmer. Lutron dimmers are rated to carry the full rated load. Not sure about other brands. Check the with the manufacturer.