Replies

1. 
   Carya | Oct 29, 2007 06:57pm | #1

   Don't know what the motor rating in your compressor is, but beware that typical relay contact ratings are given for resistive loads.  Switching an inductive load (motor) means much higher initial currents and back EMF which could arc in a relay not designed for that operation.  Result will be early failure even if it works the first day.

   In other words, make sure the relay is rated to switch an inductive load at specified current and voltage.

    

   Andy

    

2. 
   JohnWW | Oct 29, 2007 08:10pm | #2

   If your compressor has a magnetic switch, you already have the relay you need and it can be controlled by stock remote buttons meant to be used with magnetic switches.

   John W.

3. 
   JerryPacMan | Oct 30, 2007 05:16pm | #3

   I leave my compressor on all the time.  I do not understand why you would want a 3-way switch to turn it on and off unless you have air leaks and it cycles too much.  If I am out of town for a few days I turn it off using the breaker.  I think their is a lever on the pressure switch to turn it on and off but I just use the breaker. 

    

   Life is what happens to you when you're making other plans .

1. 
   Carya | Oct 30, 2007 06:50pm | #4

   The suggestion to use the machine's switch or control relay is much better than the breaker.  Breakers are not designed as switches, especially for inductive loads.  It will eventually wear out or burn out.

   I've done this with my electric water heater but its a resistive load (and still not a good idea).

    

   Andy

    

1. 
   dougmeyer | Oct 30, 2007 10:12pm | #5

   WoodCraft sells a remote fob system (like in new cars) that will handle 220, it comes with one fob and you can buy more ( I was thinking of using this on my DC) I do not know if it will handle the load but you could check it out. Seamed to me with 1 fob it was about $60 and the fobs were about $25 or so but do not hold me to this.

   Doug