Two dedicated circuits are ideal, although you have to keep in mind the possibility of a ground loop issue. You'll need to use at least 12 ga wire if you want to have the capacity for 20A, which is what I would recommend.
Michael
Michael
Circuit Status
Terra, it appears that your two outlets are daisy chained, and thus you have in effect only 1 dedicated circuit. That circuit is a perfectly valid dedicated one since it comes directly from a subpanel. You need to determine the total steady state current draw when all your components are on but not playing music, and then the peak draw when the amp is maxed out. You will use this to help determine if more circuits are needed, and if you need to go to 20 amp. Since you runs are relatively short, that may not be necessary. I would suggest a minimum of two circuits, although some run several just to be conservative. You might be able to keep the one you have and just add another. Are there any other circuits in that subpanel? |
There are other circuits off of the subpanel. The house was built pretty much on one level, but long ranch style, so the subpanel serves the central and west end of the residence. The circuits include lighting, electrical outlets, water boiler (hot water heating), central vac, wash/dryer, fire alarm and jacuzzi. Objects on the same bus (think I have this right?) as the component outlets include lighting, receptacles, washer dryer, fire alarm and the boiler. |
The cable feeding the subpanel is 8/3 Trendex; the subpanel located approximately 60 ft from the main panel and point of delivery of service into the residence What is Trendex? Do you mean Romex? Are you sure the wire feeding the sub panel is 8/3? #8 awg copper has an ampere rating of 40 amps. There are other circuits off of the subpanel. The house was built pretty much on one level, but long ranch style, so the subpanel serves the central and west end of the residence. The circuits include lighting, electrical outlets, water boiler (hot water heating), central vac, wash/dryer, fire alarm and jacuzzi. Objects on the same bus (think I have this right?) as the component outlets include lighting, receptacles, washer dryer, fire alarm and the boiler. That could be a good load on a 40 amp feeder. Check the main electrical panel for the breaker that feeds the sub-panel. How big is it? The two pole breaker handle will have a number on it. Is it a 40? At any rate the best way would be to have the electrician install at least 2 new 20 amp dedicated branch circuits all the way back to the main electrical panel if possible. 75 feet is a fair distance and you only want to have the job done once. Play it safe and have him use solid #10 copper wire. Two 10/2 with ground NM-B cables if possible. (Romex brand is just one example of NM-B type cable manufactures) . |