C-9 bulbs (not led) and SPT2 wire

[cut3074]

I am a newbie.

Just wondering how many C-9 bulbs I can run with SPT-2 wire. (16 awg)

My head is telling me to stcik with the outdoor extension cords, but was just wondering if I can make the switch to SPT-2.

I have two roofs, each roof holds about 30-35 c-9 bulbs.

Any help would be great.

[-klb-]

35 C9 bulbs is about 2A, So even if you had 70 on 1 channel, that is only 4A, and well within the limits of 16 gauge SPT1 or SPT2.

[jim6918]

cut3074 wrote:

I am a newbie.

Just wondering how many C-9 bulbs I can run with SPT-2 wire. (16 awg)

My head is telling me to stcik with the outdoor extension cords, but was just wondering if I can make the switch to SPT-2.

I have two roofs, each roof holds about 30-35 c-9 bulbs.

Any help would be great.

I believe that SPT-2 16 is rated at 13 amps. A 25 count C9 incandescent string draws 1.5 amps. So you can calculate. I believe the 80% rule should apply with wire also, so I would try to hold the amp draw on the wire to about 10 Amps. Plus, the longer the wire, the less amps you should throw on it.

[jim6918]

I have found both of these web pages to be very helpful while planning electrical needs.

http://planetchristmas.com/WireSize.htm

and

http://planetchristmas.com/FigurePower.htm

And, BTW, Welcome to the Forum since I forgot to say it in first reply.

[cut3074]

Thanks for all the info. The website was exactly the info I was lookign for.

[sparky22]

How many with SPT-1?

[Guest guest]

SPT-1 v. SPT-2 is purely insulation thickness. You need to consider the gauge of the wire to answer your question.

So 16 gauge SPT-1 or SPT-2 will work for you.

Another good reference:

http://www.landolights.com/main/content/view/77/39/