First, the code question. I believe code states that each outlet should count as 150 watt each and a lighting allowance of 3 watts per square foot. So 150w times 13 outlets exceeds the wattage of a 15 amp circuit. (1800w) Run a new 20 amp circuit. Why spend over $1,000 on Richard Grey's unit when your reasonable sure you have a problem in the making. No matter how great his piece is, there is no alchemy at work. Ain't turnin' poo into gold no matter much you spend. Get a new circuit and Rich Grey's Power Company and 'enjoy the fruits of due diligence'

Larry - How's my NEC code? Impressed? Didn't think so but I'll keep trying

Okay you guys... Now that I know your online... You didn't answer my question concerning my testing method. Was it correct? I'm a little concerned about the cost of adding a new breaker. That in turn, brings up the second question about whether or not I have some recourse if the contractor didn't meet code? Or is the cost so negligible that I shouldn't be concerned with all the legal mumbo jumbo?

So what da ya think guys?

Point a) Cost? Negligible - if 1)outlet is on the first floor 2)you have a crawl space 3) panel is accessible, cost should be under $200
Point b) Recourse - approximately none. You'd probable have to sue GC/ electrician and local code official. probably not worth the couple hundred

oxe,

Okay! Okay! But don't you think I should at least do what Larry originally suggested in his first reply to my situation?

"In any case, I wouldn't worry about it until you try the setup. If there's an overload, you'll see it in the lights dimming to the beat of the sound."

Do you think a licensed electrician will give me a free estimate? Or will I have to pay for that on top of the new circuit? I know it sounds like I'm being cheap but I'm spending about $3000.00 more then I originally intended already.

I guess another way to look at this situation is the way those credit card commercials illustrate it.

Movie tickets: $15.00

Daughters senior Prom Dress: $150.00

Peace of mind knowing your new Home Theater has a dedicated circuit breaker: PRICELESS!

Is that what your trying to tell me oxe?

I wouldn't have in an electrician who wouldn't give a free estimate. I usually do them on my way home at the end of the day.

I would still try the system without any additions before spending money. The worst that will happen is the breaker will trip.

I still don't believe the dining room receptacles are on the same 15a circuit. Mitch, are you sure? you never had two breakers off?

Or, is the dining room not the same room as was designated when the house was built?

Larry
www.fineelectricco.com

I guess my degrees in accounting, economics and finance have failed me. Figures, i took my 2 freshman composition courses my senior year. I can add and substract like a madman but cant spell or write to save my *AA. Oh well

As to the post- peace of mind is priceless.

Larry, I think he may have implied his dining room lights are on the circuit not his outlets which would be code, just not 13 outlets.

Larry,

I just checked again. And no I never had two breakers off at one time. However, Oxe is correct. The ceiling light is on the same circuit as the living room and study but the recepticles are on seperate circuit. I think they share the circuit with the kitchen. Like you said I guess I should just try it first and see what happens.

Thanks for all the help and advice.

Of course you're both right. I almost mentioned this when I posted before, but I tried (more than usual) to stick to the subject. I did say "...the dining room receptacles..."

The dining room and kitchen lighting should never be on an appliance circuit. Imagine a hot (temperature-wise) appliance malfunctioning and taking out the lights at the same time!

This creates a problem when someone replaces a stove-hood fan/light with an over-the-stove microwave. The lights will dim as the microwave cycles. I've rewired for this quite a few times.

Okay, OEX, you're forgiven for the abhorrent grammar. :-D

Larry
www.fineelectricco.com