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L
Citizen
Username: Madison3701
Post Number: 29
Registered: 6-2004
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 19, 2006 - 10:38 am: | 
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We are looking to install recessed lighting in our hallways. I know the job is not very complicated and we could do it ourselves, but my only concern is that the wiring is old and I am not sure of the load that the circuits could carry. Does anyone have experience with this? An estimate of cost? Recommendations? Thank you!
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peteglider
Citizen
Username: Peteglider
Post Number: 2080
Registered: 8-2002
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 19, 2006 - 11:42 am: |
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Other than safety (how old is that wiring?), can you easily cut into the ceilings, run new wires, etc, its a question of load.
If you replace current watts with same watts, then you should be ok.
But, lets say you replace a fixture of 75 watts, with say 4 recessed fixtures -- you have this possible scenario
currrent 75 watts / 120 volts = .63 amps
new 400 watts / 120 volts = 3.3 amps
that's a big increase -- and you need to be careful that the entire load on the existing circuit wont' cause problems.
To be safe, you could replace existing incandescent with the new recessed flourescent fixtures (not the Home Depot stuff, but the California spec grade cans, which give off a very nice light). Also spend the few extra dollars on cans with Alzak trim -- it makes a huge difference in appearance and efficiency. (wish I'd known that before my most recent project!!!)
Pete |
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