replacement T8 ballast current requirements

[Tim M]

Just got some replacement ballasts from Accupro. Excellent customer service!

However, I noticed on the specs the new residential version (American ballast AB4-32-IP-120-R) draws 1.60 Amps while the old (Accupro AP-RC-432IP-120-1) draws 0.97 amps. Anybody know why?

I could not find the specs for the Accupro residential (AP-RS-432IP-120). Can someone check to see if it's specs also say 1.60 Amps?

This is significant for the number of lights I have in my shop.

Thanks,
Tim

 

[q miester]

Tim,
The amp difference between the two models is based on the ballast effeciency rating times the input wattage. As i dont know the amount of lights in your shop the added wattage remains a mystery but remember also, if the circuit is only for the lights it isnt that great but if the circuit has other items than it can be an issue again depending on quantity of lights

 

[Tim M]

Yeah, that was one of my question: Why is the residential ballast so much more inefficient?

I guess the filtering lowers the impedance. I am not sure it is worth it since I don't listen to AM radio much.