View Full Version : Recessed lighting romex
Sailorman
Jan 6, 2008, 05:58 PM
Very quick question... I am installing recessed lighting. Total of 7 cans that will house 60 watt bulbs.
Should I use 14/2 or 12/2 romex to between cans? It is a 15 amp circuit and 14/2 enters the original junction box.
Thanks.
Stratmando
Jan 6, 2008, 06:24 PM
7 X 60= 420 Watts.
420/120= 3.5 Amps
Figure 1440 watts for 15 amp circuit.(15 X 120 =1800 X.8 = 1440 watts continuous).
Divide 1440 by 60 watt bulbs, you get 24 bulbs.
With #12, and 20 Amp circuit, you could have 32 Bulbs.
Maybe have lighting on own circuit, to prevent an outlet tripping, leaving you in the dark.
Sailorman
Jan 6, 2008, 06:33 PM
So I should use 14/2 romex?
labman
Jan 6, 2008, 06:40 PM
What he is saying as longs as it is less than 24 bulbs, OK. So #14 is plenty good for 7.
Cobraguy
Jan 7, 2008, 06:30 AM
Since his circuit originates with 14/2, the use of 12/2 would be of no value. The circuit MUST be protected with no more than a 15A breaker.