What Size Wire to Run a 220 Air Compressor – Detailed Guide
Have you purchased a 220-volt air compressor and want to make it function properly? Well, the most important question that pops up in your head is what size wire to run a 220 Volt air compressor. Not to worry because we have got it all covered for you. From the optimal size to other details, we are here to assist you with all. Dive in to know it all!
Wiring the 220 V Air Compressor
Air compressor is a complicated machine to work with. The wiring of the 220 volts air compressor requires great care and consideration. With its exceptional versatility and remarkable functionality, it is being used in multiple domains and areas. From inflating tires to spray paint, it is being used everywhere. The wiring is a crucial step.
You are first required to get the air compressor and circuit box closer to each other. After which, you are required to switch off the circuit breaker. Next, the cover is to be removed from the fuse box, and installation of 30 amperes motor is required. Further, you need to secure the gauge and get it assembled to the junction. The power cord is then connected by removing the cover of the box containing the switch. Lastly, restoration of power is needed.
What Size Wire to Run a 220 Air Compressor?
Selecting the right wire size is crucial to the proper functioning of the 220 volts air compressor. This is one of the common questions that many people come up with when people first purchase the air compressor. These things are not considered prior to select the compressor.
From use in a home garage to repair shop work, the extensive use of air compressors has made them one of the must-haves. However, safe and sound usage of the air compressor is a must. This can be ensured by equipping them with the right wire size gauge. This will contribute to efficient working and proper functioning.
In order to make your compressor work perfectly and properly, you need to wire 30 amperes one. Further, that should be the one with a 10 AWG rating. You can wire the one with color black as well as white as the hot wires. Another thing which you should always make sure is that what purpose you are using the air compressor for as 30 amperes is not adequate for all the tasks and activities. The selected material for the wire is copper which is a great conductor and is a durable material as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What wire should I use for the air compressor?
The size of the wire you should use for the air compressor depends on the motor integrated with the air compressor. The most common motor is the one guaranteeing the power of 5 Hp. Therefore, the wire one should use for 5HP, 28 amperes compressor should be a copper one. The specifications of copper wire should be 10 AWG.
2. What wire do I use for 220?
When it comes to 220 Volt air compressor, a circuit of 30 amperes is required. You are required to run 10-2 which will go straight off to the outlet. This 10-2 is a copper wire which is best to run on 35 amperes of constant loading.
3. What is the difference between 10 3 wire and 10 2 wire?
There is a little difference between 10-3 and 10-2 wire which requires you to be careful. The composition of the 10-2 wire includes the following
- Hotwire which is insulated black
- Neutral which is insulated white
- The ground wire which is green
Whereas the 10-3 wire has a different composition. It consists of 2 hot wires instead of one. These come in the colors red and black. The neutral one in color white and the ground one is green color.
