roperly running power lines is crucial for arcade owners, Family Entertainment Centers (FECs), and new game room operators looking to optimize performance, reduce downtime, and ensure safety. Whether you're opening a new arcade, expanding your facility, or upgrading your game room’s electrical infrastructure, this blog will cover best practices for running arcade power lines, wiring considerations, and power management tips to keep your business running smoothly.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. Electrical work should always be performed by a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with local building codes and safety regulations.
How to Calculate Power Requirements for an Arcade or Family Entertainment Center
Before running any power lines, you need to determine your arcade’s total electrical demand to avoid overloads and inefficiencies.
Key Steps to Calculate Power Needs:
- Check Individual Game Power Draw – Most arcade cabinets run on 120V (North America), while some require 240V.
- Consider Peak Usage – Multiple machines running simultaneously can cause power spikes.
- Factor in Additional Systems – HVAC, lighting, VR attractions, and redemption kiosks all contribute to overall power consumption.
Consulting a licensed electrician or an arcade expert (like P1AG) is highly recommended to create a custom power distribution plan for your space.
Best Electrical Circuit Layout for an Arcade or Game Room
To prevent downtime, power surges, and unnecessary wear on machines, arcade circuits must be strategically designed for load balancing, scalability, and safety.
How to Set Up Power Circuits for an Arcade:
- Use Dedicated Circuits for High-Draw Machines – VR setups, pinball machines, and motion simulators require dedicated 20A circuits to prevent power surges.
- Balance Electrical Load Across Circuits – Avoid overloading by distributing high-energy machines evenly across multiple circuits.
- Ensure Backup Power for Essential Systems – POS systems, prize redemption kiosks, and card readers should be connected to a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against power fluctuations.
Planning circuits properly prevents machine failures, tripped breakers, and lost revenue due to downtime.
Running Power Lines in an Arcade: Floor Outlets vs. Overhead Power Drops
One of the most important decisions in arcade power distribution is how to route electrical lines to each game.
Which Power Setup is Best for Your Arcade?
Floor Outlets(Best for Permanent Game Placement) |
Overhead Power Drops(Best for Flexible Arcade Layouts) |
| ✔ Ideal for arcades with fixed layouts ✔ Concealed wiring reduces tripping hazards ✔ Requires trenching or pre-installed conduit during construction |
✔ Ideal for modular arcades where games move frequently ✔ Uses ceiling-mounted outlets with retractable power cords ✔ Prevents damage from foot traffic but may require longer cable runs |
If using overhead power drops, install retractable reels to keep cables tidy and prevent hanging wires from interfering with gameplay.
Choosing the Right Electrical Wiring and Outlets for an Arcade
Choosing the right wiring gauge, outlets, and surge protection is essential for arcade safety, performance, and long-term cost savings.
Arcade Wiring and Outlet Essentials:
- Use 12 AWG Wire for Standard 20A Circuits – This supports most arcade games.
- Opt for 10 AWG Wiring for High-Powered Machines – Heavy-load games and VR setups require thicker wiring.
- Install Commercial-Grade Outlets NEMA 5-15R (15A) – Standard for most games NEMA 5-20R (20A)– Required for high-energy machines
- Whole-Building Surge Protectors – Essential to protect machines from electrical spikes that can cause costly repairs.
Incorrect wiring or substandard outlets increase fire hazards, cause frequent breaker trips, and shorten machine lifespan.
Common Electrical Mistakes Arcade Owners Should Avoid
Many new arcade operators make costly electrical mistakes that lead to unexpected downtime, machine damage, and higher electricity bills.
Avoid These Arcade Electrical Errors:
- Daisy-Chaining Power Strips – Overloading circuits with extension cords is dangerous and can lead to breaker trips or fires.
- Ignoring Voltage Requirements – Some imported games require 220V, so always verify voltage before plugging in.
- Skipping Grounding – Every machine must be properly grounded to prevent shocks and malfunctions.
- Not Labeling Breaker Panels – Make sure each game, zone, or attraction is clearly labeled for quick troubleshooting.
Ensuring a well-planned, properly installed electrical system prevents operational disruptions and keeps your arcade running smoothly.
Future-Proofing Your Arcade’s Electrical System
Arcade technology continues to evolve, and upgrading your power infrastructure now can save money in the long run.
How to Future-Proof an Arcade’s Power Setup:
- Install Extra Electrical Conduit – This makes adding new machines easier in the future.
- Use Smart Meters for Power Monitoring – Track energy usage and detect inefficiencies to lower costs.
- Consider Renewable Energy Options – Some operators are incorporating solar panels to offset rising energy expenses.
Being proactive about your arcade’s electrical needs ensures scalability as your business grows.
Get Your Arcade Power Setup Right from the Start
Running power lines in an arcade requires careful planning, professional installation, and future-proofing strategies to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations. By following best practices for arcade wiring, circuit planning, and machine placement, you’ll keep your arcade running smoothly while avoiding unexpected electrical issues.
Remember: Always consult a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with local electrical codes and safety regulations.
If you’re looking to upgrade your arcade with top-performing, revenue-generating games but want to avoid large upfront costs, Player One Amusement Group offers a revenue-sharing model to help you expand risk-free.
