Install a disconnect on the outside, it is required, and hardwire the compressor to it. You must have some sort of disconnect within 50 ft and within line of sight from the panel that supplies the compressor. Being outside, you do not have line of sight, so you have to have a disconnect. A plug and receptacle is a legal disconnect, but with a 5 hp motor, it is not a good thing to use, especially since the compressor is not portable and you won't be taking it anywhere.
Charles
I still can't find the disconnect within 50' in the NEC. Would you know where it is in the NEC? You are correct on the disconnecting means within sight.
Being that the NEC loves the number "6", I would've thought that it would say "Disconnecting means within 6 feet"
Billy T.
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