Air Compressor Toggle Switch

[Nez02]

I would like to add a toggle switch so I can turn my compressor on an off at the compressor. I have searched the forums and would like to add a toggle switch to the side of the magnetic starter box breaking the pressure switch. What toggle switch are you using for this application and should it be rated for 240v?

How exactly are you wiring this switch?

My compressor is a Champion two stage, 3hp motor at 240v, with a Furnas magnetic starter. Amp draw is 16.6 per the motor tag. R15 pump with a head unloader.

 

[PT Doc]

Look a Leviton MS402. 40mp single phase. They make a dedicated box just for this switch.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Leviton...gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CPfyyem42tgCFQudZAodVvAGFw

 

[PT Doc]

More specs

http://www.leviton.com/en/products/ms402-ds

 

[Git]

Not to change the subject but have you thought about switching the air off and on instead of the electricity? One of the main advantages is you don't have to wait for the compressor to come up to pressure when you want to use it

there was a lot of good info in this thread
https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=193219

 

[rlitman]

Switches would have a 250V rating. Since you have a magnetic starter, just about any switch would work. Just wire it in series with the pressure switch.

My own compressor is hard wired, and I have a 15HP rated disconnect next to it.

But I've been thinking about the possibility of adding a remote switch. Something that would let me shut it off remotely if I discover that it is leaking and running continuously (I've had hoses burst in the past).

An electronic shutoff valve would cover most hose bursts, but not all. The most recent issue I had was the 1/4" line that goes from the check valve to the unloader. Somehow, when that went, it caused the compressor to run non-stop. I guess the pump couldn't overcome tank pressure with the 1/4" hole in it's line.

 

[454ragtop]

Use the K.I.S.S. rule, a simple household light switch breaking one of the wires from the pressure switch to the mag starter works fine. I've used that exact setup for at least 30 years. Add a handy box and metal cover for ease of installation. And no, they don't have to be 230 volt.