Wanting to add a 220 compressor.

[jadon]

Hello,

Wondering if anyone with experience can tell me if my shop can handle another 220v plug for a new compressor? I have a 70a breaker out to the shop from the house and 1 50 amp 220 v welding receptacle plus 2 15 amp circuits for plugs and lights. I'd like to have a basic 60 gal 220 compressor if my electrical would handle it? Thanks in advance for any replies

Jadon

 

[pattenp]

You are limited only by the number of spaces in your sub-panel. You just need to manage your loads as to not have to much running at the same time to prevent your 70A breaker to the shop from tripping.

 

[JDon99]

You should be fine.

 

[slopdog]

I have a 60 amp main breaker and have never had an issue with a 30 amp on the compressor .

 

[jadon]

Great, thanks a lot for the help. Managing the loads may only be a hurdle for the plasma cutter. That's the only time I anticipate using both the welding and compressor outlets at the same time. Any advice there?

 

[justsam]

You should be fine.

If your garage subpanel does not already have a main breaker, you will be limited to 6 circuits, to be compliant.

 

[jadon]

There is 2 slots there for sure so I have room on the panel.

Good news. A new compressor in my future!

 

[larry_g]

A couple of things to check. 1. what is the wire size going to the shop, it may be large enough to handle a larger breaker. 2. A 60 gallon compressor could be anything from ~3 hp to ~5 hp with a lot of advertising BS mixed in with it. Pay attention to the amp draw of the motor and the recommended breaker for the unit.

for your perusal FLA chart

So if their advertising a 5 hp compressor that runs on 12amps you know to call BS

lg
no neat sig line

 

[wyliesdiesels]

What is the size of motor on the compressor? Anything over 3hp needs to be Hardwired!

 

[jadon]

More good info guys thanks. One more question, could the hard wired 3hp rule be a local thing because I'd really like to just use a receptacle? I guess what I'm saying is if I dig around here is there a chance I'd find that I can just put in a plug?

 

[wyliesdiesels]

More good info guys thanks. One more question, could the hard wired 3hp rule be a local thing because I'd really like to just use a receptacle? I guess what I'm saying is if I dig around here is there a chance I'd find that I can just put in a plug?

Nope not a local rule. Standard nema outlets are rated for 3hp MAX. U would be violating the UL listing and create a potential fire hazard if u used it outside its limits.

The only outlets which are rated for more than 3hp are expensive pin and sleeve receptacles!

Also, wire needs to be sized at 125% of FLC and breaker can sized at a max of 250% of FLC!