I’m new to the forum – I apologize if this has been covered before. I need to run 240V service to my workshop. I plan to run the following:
Equipment: Unisaw – 240V 14.7A; Dust collection (Clearvue cyclone 5hp Leeson) 240V 20.8A; Inca jointer/planer combination machien 240V 10A; my Bandsaw Lathe and various hand held power tools are all 120V under 15A.
Location: Basement shop 12′ x 25′ approx 25′ from main (100A Cutler Hammer load center).
Proposal: Install a quad 40/15A breaker in the main panel and run 8/3 to a new (Siemens 8/4 or equivilant) subpanel. In the subpanel install a quad 30/15A and a quad 15/15A. Run the dust collector off the 30A circuit (10/3 approx 35′) and the Unisaw / Jointer off of the 240V 15A (14/3 approx 30′). The four 120V 15A circuits would then power the other equipment in the shop.
Question: Is this to code? Is this safe? Is this the best way to do this (both $ and efficiency).
Thank you.
Replies
You might want to post this question over in Breaktime, where the contractors and builders hang out
I think a forty amp subpanel is too small and quite possibly the main panel is too small also. You will always have the DC on when the TS is on. The two add up to almost 36 amps. You shouldn't plan on more that 32 amps for a forty amp circuit (80% of 40 amps). You will have lights. If an air compressor or other machine kicks in you can expect to have a blown circuit. My shop is somewhat larger with plenty of lights. I blew a fifteen amp breaker with just the lights. That is 110 volts, of course. Not knowing your situation at all, but I think I would put in a 100 amp for the shop. It wouldn't be too expensive and could give you room for growth. reasurance.
Just a comment.. You asked if to code.. In my humble opinion it really depends on your local electrical code..
Chicago here and our codes are very strict if they are followed (They find out)..
I had (I think) 60 AMP long ago.. Upgraded to 100 AMP (small house)..
I pulled #8 in 1 Inch conduit.. I had to rip it out and go to #6 in 1.5 inch.. Geeeeee.. But after I did that the Inspector was OK with my work.. Electrical Engineer (vaCuume tube days) here but not a licensed Electrician...
EDIT: Run was about 50 foot from main breaker box...
Edited 11/25/2005 10:50 am by WillGeorge
Edited 11/25/2005 10:52 am by WillGeorge
There are many variables which would be very difficult to cover adequately on a forum. My first thought is that your 100A main panel will be too small to accomodate pulling a full subpanel off of it. You have to calculate you current load on the house panel and see if there is not only room for a breaker but if your load can carry it. I would upgrade your current panel to a 200A panel and use your old 100 A for a subpanel. Consult a local electrician for a quote. After this you will have a good idea about what is required and if you can DIY.
Byron
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