Electrical ?

[andy51632]

How many watts can you run on 1 circuit safely before the breaker will trip?

 

[ibew41]

on a 20amp circuit 16amps max

 

[turningtim]

Watts/ 120 (volts)= amps....
Safely= 80% of what the breaker is rated for.

 

[andy51632]

So with your formula a 200watt heater turned on would run at 1.6amps? 200watts/120amps= 1.6amps

 

[andy51632]

Also on my circuits it says: 10kA 120/240v
Does that mean my circuit is 10amps? Anyway to upgrade to a 20amp or would I have to get another breaker box?

 

[turningtim]

First! if you have question about your box or breakers or maybe even service I would call an electrician to take a look.IF you are inclined it is something you CAN do yourself BUT you're messing with a bit of power in a CB box!
Your amp rating for individual breakers should be right on the lever of the breaker itself. It should say 15amp or 20amp for single pole and 30+ for double pole.
To up grade a 15a to a 20a you need to make sure the wire that you have will carry a 20a circuit. 15 amp = 14 gauge wire and 20 amp =12 gauge wire. DO not place a 20amp breaker on a 14 gauge wire. Especially with the amount of load we put on a circuit for our tanks!
I will be happy to help BUT if you are not sure call a PRO!
HTH
Tim