Max watts/amps on 240V circuit w/12-2
Hi all-
I bought a wall mounted electric forced air heater for my new toddler jail…. er “playroom”…
I was debating between 3000 and 4000 watt model and took home the 4000 watt… I’ve always believed in getting more than enough power for something… but that’s another thread.
This will have a dedicated circuit, I’ve already run the 12-2 wire (had some left over… watching my $$) and prefer not to replace.
I’ve been poking around and it looks like maximum watts on 20 amp breaker with 12-2 is… 3840… this will run for a few hours at a time when heating up the room in the AM but shouldn’t be running all day… it’s well insulated (well.. it will be well insulated…) as I am putting 2″ XPS on exterior walls and interior partition walls are insulated with R-13 and ceiling is r-19…… total size is roughly 336 sq. feet but some of that is taken up by the stairs into the basement.
So… a big no-no or is it within reason?
Also, any advice on proper placement? I know you have to keep it 12″ from walls/floor/ceiling and no obstructions in front of it (duh)… my preference is to mount mid-wall so afortmentioned Toddlers don’t jack around with the thermostat but guide says to mount near floor.. ??
Thanks.
Edited 2/15/2009 3:10 pm ET by GraniteStater
Replies
#12 Wire is good for 4800 watts max at 240v, unless it needs to be derated for some reason. You should be good.
Other will be along including Bill but you should be okay wire size, the 3840 is minus your 20% of true max 4800. Are you mounting a thermostat?
Wallyo
Thermostat built into unit.