Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: K2X, Location: Colorado Springs
Asked on: Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at 1:03 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:29 am EDT
Question: Regarding my previous question on the 80% rule. The grow house is in a residence/dwelling. I'm looking at 2008 210.6 (a)which looks like I'm limited to 120 volts. Then on 410.140 it looks like I'm limited to 1000 volts for open-circuit voltage. I'm not sure what open circuit voltage is but I'm thinking these hid lights may not be allowed at all in a dwelling??Thanks again.
Open-Circuit Voltage
Open-circuit voltage refers to the voltage at the terminals of an electrical circuit when no current is flowing. In other words, it is the maximum voltage that the source can produce when there is no load connected.
HID Lights in Dwellings
HID lights, or high-intensity discharge lights, are typically used for commercial and industrial lighting applications. They require high voltages for ignition and operation, often exceeding 1000 volts.
Electrical Code Requirements 2008 NEC 210.6(a) limits the voltage for lighting circuits in dwellings to 120 volts. 2008 NEC 410.140 limits the open-circuit voltage of luminaires (light fixtures) in dwellings to 1000 volts.
Analysis
Based on the electrical code requirements, HID lights with open-circuit voltages exceeding 1000 volts are not permitted in dwellings. Therefore, it is likely that HID lights cannot be used in the grow house if it is located in a residence/dwelling.
Other Considerations
In addition to the electrical code requirements, it is important to consider the safety and fire hazards associated with operating high-voltage lights in a residential setting. It is recommended to consult with a qualified electrician to determine the safest and most code-compliant lighting system for your grow house. Flag for review