NEC Re: Switch for Compressor

[Motofixxer]

I'm curious if there are any code issues regarding using just a breaker as a switch\disconnect for a compressor circuit and a hoist. I was planning on using just a breaker. And does it change if the lift or compressor is hardwired or twistlock plug? I was chatting with someone who mentioned the issue of a possible code violation. So I thought I would rethink it and find out. I know commercial lighting circuits are frequently just a breaker, but thats a little bit different. So any expert opinions? And if you don't mind stating if you are certified or just knowledgeable, and any relevant code quotes would be helpful.

 

[930dreamer]

Re: NEC Re: Disconnect for Compressor

I know nothing about electricial code but, I read that you need a disconnect near the machine when the panel is out of view. A breaker isn't made for daily on and off use

 

[GeorgiaHybrid]

I think that you can if you are in line of sight of the lift/compressor but the code guys here need to answer ths one. I'm just the resident idiot....

 

[Motofixxer]

Equipment would be in easy plain view no problem there. But I have worked a few places where there was only breakers to shut stuff off. I think it was mostly just lights but I can't say for sure. I worked one place where the breakers were used daily for 7 yrs that I was there with no issues. Worst case they get easier to trip. Just replace them. But that's kinda why I started thinking about the actual code, and what it said. I am planning on putting the compressor up higher on a pedestal so I have storage underneath so the switch will be unreachable. So just flipping the breaker about 5' away would be simple and easy.

 

[Norcal]

If you put a breaker lock out on the breaker for a padlock & this must remain in place on the breaker* (All current breaker manufacturers make them) and the breaker is within 25? feet (The exact number I will need to look up in the NEC) it is permissible as a means of disconnect.


*The panel trim/dead front is installed after the breaker lock is installed.


PS Home Depot sells cheap air conditioner pull out disconnects for less then $10 bucks, really cannot beat em as a cheap disco, they come in 3 flavors: 30A & 60A fusible & 60A non-fusible.

 

[hidollartoys]

Qualification = Master Electrician.

Answer = Depends on the hp rating and the means of electrical connection (cord, hard wired)

 

[oleguy]

Re: NEC Re: Disconnect for Compressor

I know nothing about electricial code but, I read that you need a disconnect near the machine when the panel is out of view. A breaker isn't made for daily on and off use

breakers of swd or switching duty are for daily use.code says IN SITE OF meaning in site of within 50 feet.if you are 5' away you could just use the breaker.

 

[gmhill33]

Re: NEC Re: Disconnect for Compressor

I know nothing about electricial code but, I read that you need a disconnect near the machine when the panel is out of view. A breaker isn't made for daily on and off use

What kind of compressor is that in your pic?

Thanks,
Gary

 

[jkeyser14]

You can use a twist lock plug, just the breaker in the panel if it's within sight, a disconnect, or a combination of the above.

I personally used all 3. The twist lock plug is so I can plug it into one of multiple 30A 240v outlets in the garage in case I ever move it. The one it's actually connected to right now goes to a disconnect switch by the door so I can turn it off when I'm done working and not have it cycling all night annoying the neighbors.

 

[Iroc-Z]

I was just at home depot today and found a 30A 220v switch you can buy that looks just like a light switch. I am putting one of those in for my garage. The switch will be by my tool box so I can turn the compressor on when needed.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

I was just at home depot today and found a 30A 220v switch you can buy that looks just like a light switch. I am putting one of those in for my garage. The switch will be by my tool box so I can turn the compressor on when needed.

Need to look at the markings on the box and the switch itself. You need to determine that the switch is "motor rated". Even if it is rated at a high enough amperage, it needs to be "motor rated" to be acceptable for use switching a motor on and off.

Charles

 

[Iroc-Z]

Need to look at the markings on the box and the switch itself. You need to determine that the switch is "motor rated". Even if it is rated at a high enough amperage, it needs to be "motor rated" to be acceptable for use switching a motor on and off.

Charles

I believe it was. If I recall it said pump and motor on it. I will have to look next time I am there.

 

[Motofixxer]

Lot's of good info\options so far. For my application I think I will just go with the breaker like I was originally thinking. Since the panel is only 4' away from the compressor and the lift will only be used occasionally. So it will stay off most of the time. But hopefully other people can use some of this info in their planning.

 

[Iroc-Z]

I check Homedepot again and the switch is a 30 amp for pump/motor. There 10 bucks and look like a regular light switch.