Running a 1k AND 400W off 15A?

[dotblunt]

Just like the title says, here are some details:

I have 2 of each 1k and 400w Digital lumateks, I've been using 3 circuits to run them (in a staggered lighting schedule) but would like to free up the 3rd circuit to run a Core and Coil 1k MH.

Currently:
1st circuit> 1k runs first 8 hours of 12
2nd circuit> 1k runs last 8 hours of 12
3rd circuit> 2-400W runs 12 hours of 12

So 25.6 KWH a day


Proposing:
1st circuit> 1k + 400w runs first 8 hours of 12
2nd circuit> 1k + 400w runs last 8 hours of 12
3rd circuit> 1k magnetic runs middle 8 of 12

30.4 KWH, just a touch more electricity but a good wallop of 1ks and staggered for heat and minimized electrical use. All the digitals are HPS, looking to add some spectrum and also blast another 1k for good penetration. Also trying to mimick a typical day with sunrise, midday and sunset...I've never read of anyone trying it so I'll see for myself how it works.

So can a 15A handle this for 8 hours a day? By the math I'm pushing 77% of load not counting the ballast draw so it is tighter than I'd like but for only 8 hours I might give it a try.

 

[free radical]

I believe 80% load is the rule of thumb to be safe. So you're right on the edge Personally, I wouldn't push it that far but thats me.

Will you have piece of mind with this setup? I.E. can leave for 1 day and not be paranoid about coming home to a pile of ash.

How old is the place you live in, original wiring im guessing? Last thing you want is a fire.

Do you have any pics of how you are orientating them in your space?

I'm not saying don't do it but really weigh this out and think it through.

 

[foaf]

from a safety standpoint, it is more important to know what gauge wire is run. If it is 14 gauge, then you should stay at 80% of 15 amps, 120 x 15 x .8 = 1440 . If they ran 12 gauge, then you can max out the 15 amps, or you can install a 20 amp breaker and then run 80% of that.

 

[VagPuncher]

1320 watts max

 

[FirstTracks]

its a good idea if you want to burn down your house......

 

[foaf]

120 is the "delivery voltage" in North America (voltage at the meter), 110 is "nominal utilization voltage", safety calculations of wattage traditionally use the delivery voltage, The 10 volt difference is for voltage drops through the interior wiring of the house.