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Air Compressor Question

Seeing as how that sucker probably draws about 20A, it had better be the only thing on the circuit...

If you must use a plug on it, I'd recommend using a dryer plug and receptacle.
 
Please excuse my ignorance, but what other types of 240 plugs are there besides dryer type plugs?

The reason I dont' want it hard wired is because I'm in the Air Force and when I PCS, it want to be able to unplug it and take it with me fairly easily.
 
Yes, you may install a plug on the cord and use whatever amperage breaker is required and make sure it is the only thing on the circuit, but i believe that ALL 240 circuits are on their on breaker. Just remember you should never use a breaker any larger than required for the purpose otherwise if there is an overload the breaker would not turn off.
 
voltage drop...

The reason they say to hard wire it only is probably because they don't want someone putting a 50-100 ft cord and a plug on it,because the voltage drop you'll get from doing that will cause the motor to overheat and fail...

I don't see why you cant use a plug and an outlet,as long as they are rated for more amps than the thing will draw..(like using a 30 amp plug and outlet for a dryer,or a 50 amp for an electric stove as suggested)--as long as you dont extend the wire from the motor too far,and use at least 10ga wire...I'd say 5-10' at most..but I'm no electrician either,so don't take my advice as gospel!.. :rolleyes:

My 4 HP Coleman "Portable" air compressor sucks--the only thing that makes it "portable" is the fact it has wheels,and a handle!--its 110V,but the cord is as thick as my thumb,and only 5' long!--and it says in big letters "USE NO EXTENTION CORDS!!" so I have to wheel it to and from an outlet every 2 minites when I'm filling tires,etc--either that or I have to buy 100 more feet of air hose,and roll it up every time- :mad: --and if anything else is on the curcuit,it has to be off,or the breaker will trip! :doah: ..its a real PITA!...I want a compressor with a gas motor on it I can wheel right to the job..screw electric ones!.. :haha:
 
They rate the motor for a 15 amp circuit. So I don't see any problem using a dryer (30amp) or stove (40amp) plugs. Home Depot has plugs and some decent 10/4 rubber encased wire that will make a good cord.
 
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