How many power outlets?

[Oberst Hajj]

Looking at all the equipment you guys have with your setups, how many power outlets are you using? The spot were we are thinking of putting the tank only has a standard two outlet wall plug. We'd most likely have the light switch on that wall moved out of the way, so was wondering if I should install some more dedicated outlets?

 

[-Logzor]

It's more about having more than one circuit than more outlets. Ideally you want to split up critical equipment between two separate circuits so if one trips your not in too bad of shape. Although I've ran an entire 90 gallon system on a single outlet, was in an apt.

 

[JMSKI333]

Hello Again Keith,

I have 1x independent 2-gain 20amp circuit ran for my 90 gallon tank. From that, I have two power strips from my APEX controller with 12 of 16 outlets filled.

 

[mfinn]

so was wondering if I should install some more dedicated outlets?

That would be best.

 

[Murfman]

Hey Keith. I have two 20 amp dedicated circuits with controllers and power strips. Never enough outlets! If you are going to run MH lights, you will need more circuits, not just outlets.

 

[aslmx]

I have 2- 250watt mh, mag 5, 2- 1050 koralias, skimmer pump ,300w heater, I turned all lights ,lamps and ceiling fan on in the room with the tank. I checked amp load at the breaker with my meter and was reading 14.6 amps on a 20 amp breaker. max should only be 16 amps on a 20 amp breaker. Thats 80 percent. The number of outlets doesnt really matter as long as they are rated for the load and not overloaded but its always better to have more circuits especially for lights just make sure they are sized right. If you are getting more then 60' from the breaker I would go to #10 wire.

 

[mfinn]

Hey Keith. I have two 20 amp dedicated circuits with controllers and power strips. Never enough outlets! If you are going to run MH lights, you will need more circuits, not just outlets.

I assumed that when he said "installing" some outlets, he meant dedicated circuits.

I also have two 20amp circuits for my 240.

 

[Oberst Hajj]

Yes, I meant more circuits ran from the breaker box. I may convert the exsisting one to a GFI and run two more of them over there. As for lights, I'm leaning towards LEDs if I swing the funding for them as well as everything else.