Zapped:
Funny thing, I also saw an old CSI that made this same misinformed assumption and presented it as fact.
I saw that same episode!!! Bitched endlessly through the entire Show, angering my Wife in the process (I really know how to pick my battles, huh???
)
Reno:
Then I think of an upcoming job, where the GC and I are having a bit of a disagreement as to the required electric. The GC has overlooked several required circuits, and has placed 6 hair dryers, four curling irons, and the cash register on the same circuit. Do you think the customer - a hair salon - will be happy if the GC has his way?
In this situation, I would suggest to propose the installation as fit - according to some form of Load Schedule (Panel Schedule, Load calc, etc.), which outlines the coincidental loads on a given circuit.
For an actual scenario to demonstrate to the Client as proof of what an overloaded circuit would be, plug in 3 Hair Dryers to a Plug Strip, run them all at high setting, and wait for the trip.
Suggest to place the Cash Register on its own Designated Circuit. Nothing sucks worse for any Business, than when the P.O.S. (Point Of Sales) is down!!!
The Dryers may be across 2, 3 or if necessary 6 Circuits; depends on the diversity of use.
As to the Curling Irons, these do not draw very much Power. My Wife's is rated at 80 Watts, however the Dryer is rated for 1800 Watts at maximum setting.
As mentioned, I believe your case demonstrates that the GC is less competent in Electrical Systems' design, and your experiences + understanding of potential risk factors supersedes the GC's Design base concepts, therefore the Client's best choice would be to accept your proposed installation, with little to no haggling.
< Enter Reality >
If we lived in a Perfect World, the above would be a default method of Proposals.
Unfortunately, when (or if) the GC presents the Proposal to the Client, there will - by Default - be price negotiations.
So the GC contacts you, requesting a more competitive bid.
BTW, the "or if" statement above refers to the GC compiling their Proposal using your bid without addendum for only one circuit to the P.O.S., 6 Dryers and 4 Curling Irons.
As to the OP / topic of this thread; the BBS discussion thread referenced at the DIY site sure has a lot of pseudo-science thrown around (read: Bandini Tech.).
I was wondering where the main Manure pile originated; the source of Bandini Tech. of which many DIY's have been submitted to + believe as fact, and now it appears we have stumbled across the unholy leaking vessel!
Anyhow, thanks for the link + laughs.
Scott