HI I need to know if anyone knows the MN electrical code for how many can lights I am allowed on one circuit using 14-2 with 15amp. also I would like to put some in my soffit outside, any type of can required for this? Thanks.
There is not a set limit on how many lights per circuit. Lights don't use much power but I always keep the number under 10. There are can lights made for outdoor use and you must use that type.
The number is eight.and this is it
Do the math. 15 A @120V 1680 watts. Leave some margin for heat dissipation and assume you have 1000 watts. This means you can put around ten 100 watts bulbs that are on simultanously. If you use less wattage bulbs, you can put more on it. Be careful, I noticed that if I use a dimmer, I can't put more than 5-6 lights on it because of the added heat dissipation of the dimmer. Regards
The limit is not in the number of outlets but the total watts. For a 15A circuit don't exceed about 1300W. (This allows for some length.) If it's outside, the light and outlet box must both be weatherproof. Buy only 'lights' and boxes UL Listed for outdoor use. You cable has to be outdoor rated as well. (Type 'UF' IIRC.) Those boxes need the proper 'outdoor' seals and fittings. (It's best if the cable enters exits the boxes from the bottom so there's less chance of water entry.)
Just keep the total load less than 80% of the circuit and you should be fine, even Dave Jacobson would not have a problem with that, he is a fun inspector to deal with, if you are borderline will depend on the inspector, if you are over it will not fly. In the 2008 code there is this nice little deal about all electrical equipment installed outdoors, has to be rated either for damp, or wet locations, even gfci outlets in an in use cover, and in a house have to be of the tamper resistant type . If you watch those things, even good old Dave won't have a problem with it, but I bet he still looks at every breaker in your panel, the label I mean Good luck.
