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Posted to alt.home.repair
Don Young
 
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Default Lamp socket wattage ratings


wrote in message
...
On Sat, 06 May 2006 21:31:38 GMT, "Noozer" wrote:


"Mark Lloyd" wrote in message
. ..
On Sat, 06 May 2006 01:34:05 GMT, Paul M. Eldridge
wrote:

I'm thinking the socket is actually rated for a maximum of 660 volts,
not watts.


It's more likely that the socket itself, not the wiring or fixture, is
rated
for 660 watts. Then the next manufacturer buys it, attaches the wires,
etc.
and labels the fixture at 60 watts (or whatever)

From a wiring standpoint 660w is not that big (5½ amps). That is well
within the ampacity of standard 18ga fixture wire. The real issue is
whether the fixture can shead the heat. (2240 BTU/hr)
There amy also be a reference to "base down" or "base up".


Yes, the 660 watts is an electrical rating, not a heat rating. It was 6
amperes at 110 volts and would apply if a screw-in adapter and cord was
used. It does not take into account any heat from a bulb.
Don Young