i started the pfc topic to illustrate that power delivery is not efficient, and when more is drawn, the less efficient it gets. this was to dispell the notion that there was a cost savings involved by using less amps.
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Ok. Let me try it this way... So if I was going to install a subpanel in a tank room, I'd use a 220V feed for that and have separate breakers for each 110V circuit. If I had that, then conceivably I might just leave a 220 circuit for the ballasts and any pumps I had that might run off 220.
But assuming that I don't currently have the subpanel, and don't have any equipment that runs off 220, I don't know that I see a benefit to the effort of installing one 220V circuit. The lights aren't going to burn any brighter, the ballasts aren't going to run any less hot, the watts consumed aren't going to be any less. Essentially, it comes down to "what plug do I want to use?"
The "double your load" thing really only strikes me as a benefit if I was on the borderline of overloading one circuit. In which case, I might just string myself some extra circuits anyways and just do a careful load balance to begin with?
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the benefit is safety and convenience. when you deal with power, the arguments should not be "The lights aren't going to burn any brighter, the ballasts aren't going to run any less hot, the watts consumed aren't going to be any less" it should be, how can i minimize overload.
the whole function of the breaker is to not protect the appliance plugged into it, it is to protect the wire. now if you watch any home show these days, ie holmes on homes etc, you will take note to how shoddy peoples work can be.. i have seen some absolutely horrible house wiring that shouldnt be in the walls, but yet there it is.
this will be my last post on this topic as it seems were flogging a dead horse here..
my personal experience dictates running a seperate line to something which is going to draw more current than normal.. so this is why i push it.. (most electricans will agree) if your current set up works for you and you see no need to change, then thats ok as well
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