kingofqueen
Well-Known Member
Welcome all ! Electrical safety is an subject area that often gets overlooked. With so many new growers I think there is some need for concern in this area . I,m an 16 yr electrician and am going to share my knowledge from being on construction sites for 16 yrs to compile this article to keep our grows and homes safe !
The Basics
First off most home circuits are 15 amps. And the average voltage is 115 volts .Which equals 1,725 watts. BUT that is the maximum . You will be safe using 80% of this which is 12 amps or 1,380 watts.
So what you want to do is make a list of every electrical item in your grow. Then add up the total wattage to see where your at . If amperage is given and not wattage you have to multiply the amperage by the voltage so 1.2 amps is 138 watts at 115 volts .
Volts x amps = watts
So with this information you should be able to get an idea of where you stand in total load on your grow per the circuit your using . Its also a good idea to be sure nothing else is on the circuit u use. If there is u have to add this in your calculation .
#1 Issue Heat from Ballasts
Your lighting ballasts generate a lot of heat . The hotter they get the less efficient they are whether its digital,electronic,or magnetic . Care should be taken to locate your ballasts in an area that gets some airflow usally outside the room so that the heat doesnt collect in your grow enclosure.
#2 Issue Cords
Care should be taken when using extension cords . Always use cord rated for the correct amperage according to your breaker. Always use 15 a cords . All cords should be checked daily as part of your PM. Check for nicks cuts and always check plug in connections . Loose cord connections start to generate extra heat and can eventually melt , or catch fire if left unnoticed !
It is equally important to check any wiring connections made . Meaning items you wired yourself . Be sure all connection are tight and not heating up . Make sure no wiring or cords are in contact with a heat source .
#3 Issue Excessive Heat from HID Lighting
Care should be taken to be sure nothing flammable is in contact or near your bulb . A good safety
measure to be taken here if you can afford it is an high temp shutoff for your light . If the temp reaches a predetermined level it shuts your light down as an safety measure . Another good measure to take is at least at the bare minimum keep a fire extinguisher near your grow.
Happy and Safe Growing to All !
The Basics
First off most home circuits are 15 amps. And the average voltage is 115 volts .Which equals 1,725 watts. BUT that is the maximum . You will be safe using 80% of this which is 12 amps or 1,380 watts.
So what you want to do is make a list of every electrical item in your grow. Then add up the total wattage to see where your at . If amperage is given and not wattage you have to multiply the amperage by the voltage so 1.2 amps is 138 watts at 115 volts .
Volts x amps = watts
So with this information you should be able to get an idea of where you stand in total load on your grow per the circuit your using . Its also a good idea to be sure nothing else is on the circuit u use. If there is u have to add this in your calculation .
#1 Issue Heat from Ballasts
Your lighting ballasts generate a lot of heat . The hotter they get the less efficient they are whether its digital,electronic,or magnetic . Care should be taken to locate your ballasts in an area that gets some airflow usally outside the room so that the heat doesnt collect in your grow enclosure.
#2 Issue Cords
Care should be taken when using extension cords . Always use cord rated for the correct amperage according to your breaker. Always use 15 a cords . All cords should be checked daily as part of your PM. Check for nicks cuts and always check plug in connections . Loose cord connections start to generate extra heat and can eventually melt , or catch fire if left unnoticed !
It is equally important to check any wiring connections made . Meaning items you wired yourself . Be sure all connection are tight and not heating up . Make sure no wiring or cords are in contact with a heat source .
#3 Issue Excessive Heat from HID Lighting
Care should be taken to be sure nothing flammable is in contact or near your bulb . A good safety
measure to be taken here if you can afford it is an high temp shutoff for your light . If the temp reaches a predetermined level it shuts your light down as an safety measure . Another good measure to take is at least at the bare minimum keep a fire extinguisher near your grow.
Happy and Safe Growing to All !
