Compressor - SOOW or THHN in Conduit

[mikeatrpi]

I am wiring my Champion VRV5-6 compressor - 240V, 22A on the motor plate. I have a 15 foot run of 8/2 Romex on a 40 amp breaker from my panel in the basement, through the walls, to my garage. In the garage I have a surface mount metal box. From that metal box I need to run about 5 feet to the pressure switch on the compressor. Mine is one of the entry level Champion air compressors without a magnetic starter - instead I have thermal overload protection on my motor.

So the big question - can I run 8/3 SOOW for this, or should I get a few strands of THHN (8ga red, 8ga black, 10ga green) and run it inside some flexible conduit?

PS I'm aware the 8/2 Romex is probably overkill, but the Champion manual recommended 8 gauge.

Thank you!

 

[pattenp]

My choice would be to use the THHN and flex conduit. I can't say using the SOOW is improper but I know the THHN and flex conduit is good.

 

[mrb]

I dont think I would use SOOW for this (well I would if using a plug and receptacle). You should have means of disconnect at the compressor, either a disconnect switch (even a cheapie hvac disco works) or cord and plug. If using flex, use liquidtite as opposed to plain flex. Oil and gunk wont get in it, and the ends wont come apart if it gets hit with something.

 

[Zrexxer]

I ran THHN in flex conduit from my junction box to my mag starter on my Champion. I suppose you could use a cord if you just had to, but the conduit is such a nicer installation.

 

[mikeatrpi]

OK so that's three votes for THHN in conduit - most likely liquid-tite.

MrB, my pressure switch has two settings - OFF and Auto. Does the OFF count as the disconnect?

 

[Cuda]

I'm not MrB but no, the pressure switch is not considered a disconnect.
I would also go with the THHN in flex.

 

[pattenp]

Replace your surface mount junction box with a disconnect switch box.

 

[Milton Shaw]

I have seen prewired pigtails for A/C units. Flex conduit, wire, and ends already made together, all you do is wire it in. Check Johnstone Supply or other local suppliers.

 

[Norcal]

Flexible cord is not allowed to substitute for perm. wiring, unless there is a plug at one end it's a no can do.