Wiring additional electrical outlets and adding timer questi

[M.E.Milz]

Before I set up my new tank, I am going to have an electrician add extra outlets near the ceiling for my lights, and to make sure that these outlets are on their own circuit.

In the past, I have just used a power strip with HD 3-prong timers to turn on the lights. Since I am already having the extra eletrical done, I assume that there is a better/cleaner/safer way to hook the lights up to timers. I have read about the x-10 stuff, but I have never used it. I also am aware of the hardwired timers that you can get from HD. Any suggestions??

BTW, my lighting will require 5 plugs, 1 for each of the 400watt PFO EYE ballasts and 1 for the Icecap ballast (4x 96watt PC's). I figure these ballasts will draw about 3.5 amps each.

Thanks in advance, Mike.

 

[Marcosreef]

I use 2 Intermatic In-wall timers. http://www.intermatic.com/consumer/ss7c.htm
They will handle just about any voltage, and run ANY ballast, regardless of its design. An excellent battery-backup timer for $25 at HD. (have the elect. install 2-duplex receptacles on one timer, and 2-duplex off the other. Mount the timers in a two gang wall box next to the tank or anywhere you would like...)

[ February 15, 2002: Message edited by: Marcosreef ]</p>

 

[Osama]

Hi Mike
I use the neptune controller with the X10 to control lights to go on/off at different times, my chiller & heaters to go on/off at different temp., my calcium reactoer to stop the CO2 if the Ph drops below a specified level. I love this expensive toy that I can hookup to my PC and look at a chart of the ph, ORP & Temp .
I would go with 20 amp circuits not 15
I would put outlets with Ground Fault interrupters
If you go with the Neptune controller you will need more outlets and more spacing between the outlets to accomodate the X10 module.
Mike if you want to come by and look the Neptune system up ...email me .
Osama

 

[imow]

I woukd think about putting some of the outlets on switches. It would be pretty cool turning light/pumps on and off with a wall switch.

 

[M.E.Milz]

Thanks guys.