Compressor Wiring Help (Need Help Quick)

[schmee]

Hey All,

I purchased a 5hp 60gal Quincy Compressor (2V41C60VC) a couple of months ago. I am now getting ready to install today and wondering if my wiring is adequate. Originally thought I had better wire but the electrician corrected me. I have 10g wire on a 30amp breaker. I dont want to install a magnetic switch box thing. Sorry for the ignorance.

http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/Quincy-2V41C60VC-Air-Compressor/p855.html?utm_source=google+shopping&utm_medium=shop+portals&utm_campaign=2V41C60VC&gclid=CNah6Kr2_soCFQyGaQod1qYAlg


The electrician is currently here wiring a spa and explained that he could run a bigger breaker (40/50a) and external conduit inside my garage. I really don't want to have to pay for more electrical and have exposed conduit. (annoys my OCD and pocketbook)

I attached a pic of the motor and compressor for help. It does have the red "cutoff" thermal switch on the side. Motor says 21amps on the side.

I tried reading other posts (like the one below) regarding this setup and I think I am good to go, would just like confirmation. I was going to wire a plug and just unplug if need be.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=313112&highlight=quincy+wiring

 

[Todd.Brock]

Technically needs to be wired into a disconnect as a plug and recepticle is typically rated up to three HP. I have used 10 ga/ 30 amp circuits for all my 5 hp compressors. The specs say 24 amps so even with 20 percent capacity - you come in at 30 amps. I would say you are fine, but your sparky could probably advise you as well

That big of a load is hard on your pressure switch - although , I believe a mag starter is not technically required b/c the motor is thermally protected.

 

[schmee]

Thanks for the quick reply Todd.. I just talked with Quincy (go figure) and he told me to upgrade the breaker to a 50amp and I would be good to go. He also mentioned using a box instead of plug but said it would work either way.
Thanks again!!!!

 

[matt_i]

I also have wired #10 AWG for 30A circuits with a 5hp expected motor.

A plug like a L14-30 is going to be OK for the ampacity, it has an extra pole. The reason I believe the code is written is to make it harder for someone to unplug under an electrical load (motor) which would draw a big nasty arc. If you can restrain yourself from that I feel like its going to be OK.

 

[schmee]

I also have wired #10 AWG for 30A circuits with a 5hp expected motor.

A plug like a L14-30 is going to be OK for the ampacity, it has an extra pole. The reason I believe the code is written is to make it harder for someone to unplug under an electrical load (motor) which would draw a big nasty arc. If you can restrain yourself from that I feel like its going to be OK.

Ill Manage..

 

[Todd.Brock]

Well - that's good to hear. A 50 amp circuit certainly won't hurt expanded capacity if you have a welder, etc.