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I recently had an AC company come out and check my 2 air conditioning

 
Mike G.'s Avatar
  • Answered by:Mike G.
  • Master Electrician
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Customer Question

I recently had an AC company come out and check my 2 air conditioning units. The repairman commented that both units were pulling high amps to start. The recommendation was "Install 2 pole 30 Amp Contractors and HSK on each unit." I checked the electrical panel and the downstairs AC unit has a 2 pole 40 amp, and the upstairs AC has a 2 pole 30 amp in the electrical panel. I am unsure as to what the note that he left with my wife means.

 

Optional Information:
Make: Lennox
Model: ?

Submitted: 390 days and 3 hours ago.
Category: Electrical
Value: $12
Status: CLOSED
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Expert:  Mike G. replied390 days and 3 hours ago.

Hi, I'm Mike and I'll be glad to assist you. You'll need to check the listings on the name plates of the equipment. It will either give the Amperage or KW rating. If the name plate restricts the size of the circuit, you have to comply, otherwise you may install a larger breaker to allow for the hard start, that is acceptable by code. Also you'll need to see if the voltage both at the A/C units and the service is 240V. Low voltage increases the amperage. Give me all the info and I give you a more specific answer.Mike G.41053.1111803588

Customer replied390 days and 3 hours ago.

From the label on the outside units:

Voltage for both is 240 (Min 197 Max 263 Normal 208/230)

Max Fuse on one is 40 and the other is 30

Avg. Min Amp on one is 25.7 and the other is 18.7

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Expert:  Mike G. replied390 days and 3 hours ago.

The max for a fuse is not the same as it would be for a for a breaker.Either you have a voltage problem or the units have internal problems not related to the circuits. I would suggest that a voltage reading be taken on start up and when running to see if you have 240V. If the voltage is correct, up sizing the breaker would be advised.

Customer replied390 days and 2 hours ago.

The label says Max Fuse / Brkr.

One breaker is already a two-pole 40, and the other is a two-pole 30.

The note from the AC person said to install 2 pole 30 amp Contractor's and HSK on each unit.

If I already have a 40 and a 30 in the breaker box, why would I replace them with a 30 and a 30?

I'll just call the service person in the morning and ask him what he is talking about.

Accepted Answer

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Expert:  Mike G. replied390 days and 2 hours ago.

Your previous statement said max fuse only. That is why I said that you could step up a size on the breaker. From what you now stated that isn't possible. I would still check the voltage and the draw on start up and when running. Also check the wire size, if not as required it could cause a drop in the voltage. Should be #10 Copper for the 30 Amp and #8 for the 40 Amp. If they are as the name plate requires, then there is a problem with the units. This is very unusual for both to have problem if not voltage and draw.Mike G.41053.1627554051

Expert TypeMaster Electrician
Category: Electrical
Pos. Feedback: 96.7 %
Accepts: 4753
Answered: 5/24/2012

Experience: Proven Professional 44 years Experience

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