Circuit breakers tripping?

[YardPro]

Originally Posted by landscapelight

Yard pro, initial post stated dedicated circuit

oops.. missed that

[koster_irrigation]

We installed a 30 amp breaker & so far no problems.

[NightScenes]

I always hate to be a kill joy, but what size wire is on that breaker? If you have 12/2 wire on it, you are not complient with NEC. The better fix would be to move the transformer 15' from the panel. Remember, if something bad happens, you will be liable.

[koster_irrigation]

A licensed electrican installed the breaker. im sure its 12 guage wire though.

[landscapelight]

Paul is correct if it's 12 gauge and you've changed it to a 30 amp breaker you have created a code violation. You're going to need to change the wire to 10 gauge. However I don't believe the breaker or the wire is your problem.

[landscapelight]

Are you amp probing the breaker at the panel with the lights on and presumably everything else on the circuit on?
If you're using one of those cheap plug in timers pitch it in the woods and plug the plug directly into the belly of the transformer. If you have a photo cell yank it too. It's a process of elimination my friend. See Paul I can help too.

[mgm]

NEC 450-3 - the over current device ( breaker ) can be up to 300% larger than the conductor rating - in this case greater than 2 amps less than 9 amps - less than 600 vac - Most circuits that supply transformers and motors see the same type of current inrush - you can use a 125 % rated device or 25 amp breaker and go up to a 60 amp and keep the same # 12 wire. ( I would also suggest secondary transformer protection ) if you did this. I have installed up to 800% on 400 hp - 480 motors .

[landscapelight]

Tell that to the local city inspector . It's a code violation don't listen to such jibberish. Are you challenging me and Sr.?

[mgm]

As far as City Inspectors - yes they do have final jurisdiction - no this is not a challenge

[mgm]

I failed to provide the complete National Electrical Code reference - 2005 Edition Article 450 -- Table 450.3 (B) ( 600 Volts and less )Overcurrent protection for Transformers