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    steffen stadsvo's Avatar
    steffen stadsvo Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Feb 21, 2009, 06:52 AM
    Can I run two light circuits with one switch?
    I will be installing (10) 6 tube high bay fluor light fixtures in a new shop. Each fixture draws 214 watts for a total of 2140 watts. 2140W / 120V = 17.83A . I know I need 2 circuits, (one 20 amp circuit can safely carry 16 amps). But I would like only one switch to control all the lights. Is it possible? A 30 amp circuit isn't practical, is it? I have done my own wiring before, but never with this many lights. Thanks, Steff
    Tev's Avatar
    Tev Posts: 232, Reputation: 20
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    #2

    Feb 21, 2009, 01:06 PM

    A double pole single throw switch will work for this.
    Perito's Avatar
    Perito Posts: 3,139, Reputation: 150
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    #3

    Feb 21, 2009, 02:27 PM

    As Tev said, a double-pole single-throw switch can do the job, however, if you go to the hardware store and buy just any old double-pole single-throw switch, you'll probably get one that is shown below. The top image shows the inner connections is when the switch is in one position; and the bottom image shows the inner connections when the switch is in the other position.

    These switches are used when you wish to switch a lamp (or other device) from more than two locations.
    Attached Images
     
    EPMiller's Avatar
    EPMiller Posts: 624, Reputation: 37
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    #4

    Feb 21, 2009, 08:18 PM

    You will have to go to an electrical supply house to get a double pole switch that will look and work as a standard light switch.
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