On Mon, 11 Dec 2006 06:00:37 GMT, "George E. Cawthon"
wrote:
Mark Lloyd wrote:
On 10 Dec 2006 18:33:59 -0800, wrote:
How can i run about six sets of christmas lights off of one outlet?
There is considerable variation between strings, so there is no simple
answer to such a vague question.
25 C9 lights use about 1.5A (180W).
25 C7 lights use about 1.3A (156W)
100 miniature lights use about .4A (48W)
LED light strings use about .015A (2W)
As to the outlet, consider what else is in use on that circuit. Most
outlets are limited to 15A (1800W) (or less if the circuit is already
heavily loaded).
When using extension cords, consider their current limits too. Usually
10A will be OK, less for very long cords.
Also, don't forget GFCIs for all outside outlets (including those
having cords going out through windows).
So, based on your wattage estimate for lights,
They're somewhat better than estimates. They're actual measurements.
However, I did add a bit for safety.
one
should be able to plug at least 10 strings into
the outlet (assuming nothing else is plugged into
the circuit. (Who uses C9 lights, besides me?)
Some people do put out C9 strings around the yard (right where they
get stepped on a lot), but that's not as common as it used to be. At
one time everyone around here did, and the street looked like an
airport runway.
Also, too many people have boring all-white displays.
I have a lot of lights out, but only TWO (that's 2 bulbs) are C9. Most
are miniature or LED strings. BTW, I put one on an animated deer to
make it look like Rudolph.
But most likely 6 strings, no matter what else is
plugged in, would not trip the breaker.
Probably not.
Note that 6 strings all connected together will almost certainly blow
the fuse in the first string (as it's trying to carry the current for
all 6). Use both outlets, of one of those triple-outlet adapters if
necessary. 6 is the maximum for an extension cord, unless you have one
of those old ones that use #18 wire.
--
14 days until the winter solstice celebration
Mark Lloyd
http://notstupid.laughingsquid.com
"How could you ask be to believe in God when there's
absolutely no evidence that I can see?" -- Jodie Foster