What breaker and wire gauge do I need for a dedicated circuit to run my machine, and what is the expected cost for electrician labor?
Asked by Caleb Medina 
2 months ago
Last Updated: October 16, 2024
I want to make it clear that I am not an electrician by any means. I know enough about electrical work to potentially cause some serious damage, so I won’t be attempting to wire this machine myself. However, I am trying to figure out what this machine needs in terms of electrical requirements.
In the past, I was able to plug it into a wall receptacle that had a double pole 30A and it worked fine. But now, in my new house, there isn’t a circuit that can handle this machine. I’m thinking of hiring an electrician to install a dedicated circuit just for it. Can you tell me what kind of breaker and wire gauge I’ll need for this job? And roughly, how much should I expect to pay for labor?
A 20 amp breaker should work perfectly.
Labor rates can differ a lot depending on where you are. When it comes to hiring an electrician, just pay them what they charge, like you would for any other service. And don’t try to save money by buying electrical stock yourself – electricians really don’t like that, and you might not even know what you’re getting.
The rating is an A, so you could use 12-gauge wire for 14 amps, or upgrade to 10-gauge wire. It looks like a 60 Hz frequency, which is standard in America.
If you’re operating a motor, a 30-amp breaker should also work fine.
How did you calculate the need for a 30-amp breaker in this situation? Even with the inrush current, it shouldn’t be 30. Haha.
I was saying, , that if you’re using the motor, you can exceed the amp load by 2 1/2 times. That’s why I initially mentioned 20 amps. Maybe you just need a bit more hands-on experience.
So, let’s say you have a three-phase 480-volt fan motor that normally draws around 38 amps. During startup, it could go up to 240 amps for a couple of seconds.
Mentioned it’s at 430.52.
Hey , how did you determine the voltage?
Richard reen did he actually read the nameplate? Open your eyes
Just noticed it haha
I still don’t see it, this is referring to time delay fuses and instantaneous trip breakers for motors with locked currents and such.
This is an air conditioner that plugs in.. the person is definitely mistaken. I know how to determine motor breaker sizes. He is just trying to sound knowledgeable.
This appliance cannot be safely connected to 10’s and 30a circuits in any scenario
Do you mind sharing why you’re making this statement? What in the provided information makes you think you can increase the size just because it has a motor?
The equipment only shows 14a and 240v…
A dishwasher displays similar information, but if I connect it to a 30a breaker instead of the required 14a at 240v, the inspector will always reject it.
Even if I mention that there is a motor inside.
Richard reen it was written on the tag
I missed it initially
Every household dishwasher I’ve ever connected was 120 volts.
In a hurry, start-up amps and locked rotors are two completely different things. Also, I must have missed the part about it being AC and yes, I would opt for a 20 amp if it were up to me. My AC units (I’ve had 3 different ones) draw about 23 or slightly more and have been running on #10 wire and a 30 amp breaker for over 56 years without any issues.
I agree. Just clarifying that’s what he’s talking about.
I have set up a few in custom homes that were very similar to these specifications. This equipment would require a 20a breaker with 12’s – you could use 10’s if you prefer, but using a 30a breaker would not offer proper protection for the equipment in the OP’s photo. It could pose a risk of damage to the equipment, which I found out costs $11k after researching it.
Indeed, it’s quite a pricey piece of equipment that I use to cool my Lazer cutting machine. I would definitely prefer the machine to have full protection.
I responded that if it were me, I’d use a 20 amp for it. My initial comment was also about a 20 amp. I didn’t see any explanation about what exactly it was or if it had internal OLs.
Think of it as an air conditioner that uses a magnetic pump to move the glycol.
It’s actually a water chiller, not an A/C unit. It has a compressor and a pump, but no blower.
The nameplate on this equipment reads V/HZ, meaning volts/hertz. The first number listed is 230, indicating the voltage required. Since it is likely a 120/240 house, you will need a 2 pole breaker to provide the necessary voltage. To account for the motor’s inrush current when it starts up, it is recommended to use 10 AW wire and a 30 amp breaker.
‘t forget about the distance from the panel when choosing the wire size – you’ll need to consider voltage drop and temperature too.
The machine that plugs into a 15 amp, 240 volt outlet needs a 20 amp, 2 pole breaker and #12 wire. .
If I’m understanding the tag right, it indicates 14 amps, which means using a 2-pole 20 amp breaker and 12-2 x. The labor costs will vary depending on the distance the circuit needs to cover and any obstacles it may encounter.
The recommended wire is 12/3 with ground. That’s just my personal opinion.
Landes, since it is single phase, why would you opt for 12/3 wire?
Arrett Blurton, from my understanding, you will need 2 hot wires, a ground wire, and a neutral wire.
Landes, where did you see that it requires a neutral? The specifications indicate 230V, not 115/230V.
So, are you using the neutral wire as a ground? Is it a bare wire?
Landes, the power plug has 3 wires and they are positioned sideways.
May not have the capacity to install x wiring for a business.
Hey there! Looks like someone finally realized that it’s a 15 amp, 240 volt plug!
Hey Sean, I’m installing this in my garage to keep a Laser cutting machine cool. The Laser needs a 30A service to run, and I’ll be plugging it in where my dryer is currently located.
Hey Jay ee, just a heads up – when you bring in the electrician, make sure to have them set up a 60 amp sub panel for your garage. Have them put in a 30 amp, 2 pole breaker and a dedicated outlet for the laser cutter, as well as a 20 amp, 2 pole breaker and dedicated 6-15 outlet for the chiller. This way, you’ll also have some extra space in the sub panel for single pole breakers for more outlets or lighting in the garage.
Why did you choose to use a neutral as a ground, Landes? You mentioned that it required a neutral, but what led you to believe that it needed one when it wasn’t specified?
Is definitely not neutral. It uses a NEMA 6-15 plug with 2 hot wires and a ground wire. The plug is attached to a #14 SJO cord.
I understand it’s labeled as 230V not 230/115V. I’m questioning why someone says it needs a neutral and if I’m using it as a ground 🙄
Landes pointed out that the plug doesn’t have a neutral wire.
A 240v 20 amp circuit should work just fine.
Just give an electrician a call, there are too many variables and they’ll bring the wire and breaker.
They actually stated they weren’t going to wire it themselves 🙄
Where are you located?
Smart decision asking for the breaker and wire size details and mentioning that you plan to hire an electrician. You actually don’t need that specific information to hire an electrician. They will figure out what wire and breaker are necessary and provide them during the installation. Most electricians prefer not to work with materials supplied by customers, mainly because it often leads to delays and extra costs that customers are not keen on covering. Additionally, the materials they use are typically marked and contribute to their overall revenue, which is crucial for their profitability. I can’t speak for your location, so I can’t provide information on hourly rates. My suggestion would be to contact a couple of electricians and ask them to give you a quote for the job. Keep in mind that they are usually quite busy, so it might be challenging to get someone to come out for a relatively small task.
The State of California mandates that electricians must hold certifications and licenses. Make sure to hire an electrical contractor with a valid license and who employs certified electricians approved by the state. Remember, it’s your home – don’t risk burning it down by hiring someone who is not qualified.
I’m not the one doing it, it’s just a quest for knowledge.
Jay ee it’s best to hire an electrician who can address all your concerns
Listen man when I’m working on someone’s house I prefer not to have the homeowner asking me questions. That’s why I’m here to ask, don’t get upset because you’re seeking attention like a prima donna.
Jay ee you’re not an electrician, just another amateur handyman looking for advice from electricians, should join a handyman group
Assuming the panel is around 100 ft away from the outlet and the wiring can be easily installed (for instance, in an unfinished basement with a clear path), the cost might range from $250 to $500 depending on your location. Most companies typically provide a time and material estimate for such projects.
Leave it to your electrician to handle.
Can you please send me a picture of the cord plug?
Jay ee, here you go – it’s a 240v 15a circuit!
20 Amperes, number 12
You typically use a 40-amp cable, but you can also use a 30-amp cable.
Mentioned he’s only running one 😎
Hey , so you have a 14 amp full load running from a 15 amp 240 volt plug. Are you sure about using a 40 amp breaker and 50 amp rated wire?
Hey , take a look at nema 14-50 code.
Sure, how many 220 outlets do you have on one breaker?
Wouldn’t recommend a 40 amp breaker for a machine that plugs in with a NEMA 6-15 plug. The outlet is only 15 amps, connected to a 20 amp 2 pole breaker, with #12 wire.
Needs a 220 stove for his regular outlet.
Are you reading the same post as I am? There’s no mention of a stove anywhere. The OP is looking to plug in a self-contained water chiller with a #14 rubber cord and a 6-15 plug. It draws 14 amps at full load, so using a breaker over 20 amps wouldn’t pass inspection.
Hey Leo, is that a stove in the picture?
Is definitely laid-back! The label on the chiller clearly shows it operates at 14 amps full load @230 VAC/60 HZ. The OP also shares a picture of the rubber cord with the 6-15 plug.
I remembered thinking it was a stove.
O for a 10 gauge 40 Amp or 50 amp.
?
Canada enforces stricter regulations compared to what we have here.
It seems like you might be taking on a side job that you’re not fully qualified for, and you’re eager to gather all the necessary information to successfully bid on and complete the job.
I’m definitely not the guy for electrical work. I’m a mason, I do real physical labor. I’m not scared of getting my hands dirty.
Hey there! I totally get where you’re coming from, but let’s keep things professional. I’m a 41-year-old electrician and I’m not afraid to pick up a broom when needed. Hats off to you for being a Mason. Every trade has its share of people who think they’re superior, but resorting to name-calling and insults won’t help us find solutions.
Hey Jay ee, if I needed advice on stonework, I wouldn’t want to hire someone I might end up accidentally insulting… you have no idea how good I am at sweeping.
Simply hire an electrician.
Son, are you having trouble reading?
I apologize for wanting to learn something. I work in the trades, and I find it frustrating when homeowners try to talk to me while I’m working. I’d prefer to ask questions of all you. Sorry.
Jay ee ‘t worry at all. Feel free to ask anything. Many individuals in this group seem to have forgotten that when they joined, they agreed to a set of rules stating that this group is open to EVERYONE, including homeowners, DIYers, and other tradespeople. Some also seem to believe that they are in a race to respond to every question with a recommendation to “hire an electrician”.
Regarding your query, that plug is designed for 15 amps at 240 volts…the fact that you previously had a matching outlet at your other residence worries me, especially since you mentioned that the outlet was connected to a dedicated 30 amp, 2 pole breaker.
Your chiller draws 14.0 amps at full load, so a 20 amp, 2 pole breaker and #12/2 w/ground romex is suitable. If you search thoroughly, you will find a few of us here who ACTUALLY read the rules before registering – we are more than willing to answer any electrical questions you may have.
Thank you sir. An electrician visited last night and suggested a single pole 60 amp breaker and 8 gauge wire. He quoted $1000 for the job. Something just didn’t sit right with me.
Regarding my previous residence, the outlet I used was intended for the window unit in the main room of the apartment.
Jay ee OK…I’m definitely not an electrician! A 60 amp SINLE POLE?? And even if that actually existed, 8 gauge wire is typically used for a 40 amp load. Please do NOT consider calling this person back! As per my previous responses, when you mentioned that the laser itself requires a dedicated 30 amp circuit, and the chiller needs a dedicated 20 amp circuit (both TWO POLE), my recommendation was for you to have a 60 amp subpanel installed in your garage. This would provide you with the necessary 2 pole 30 for the laser, 2 pole 20 for the chiller, and a couple of spare circuits for additional outlets or lighting in or around your garage.
It sounds like you’re seeking enough information to avoid hiring an electrician.
Just curious, here. If you’re not learning something new every day, are you really living life to the fullest?
Hire Jay ee as your electrician – he’s great at answering all your questions!
Hey , why don’t you go choke on a bag of em, buddy?
Jay ee 🤣🤣🤣🤡 we can totally see through your bs
Where are you located? I would need to install a 20amp two pole breaker with #12 wire. My rate in South Carolina is $95 per hour.
Make sure to hire a reliable contractor for the job. If someone does it on the side, ensure they have the necessary skills and expertise.
Not really suitable for a contractor.
I’m guessing the plug on the appliance needs a 240 volt 20 amp receptacle to match. The branch circuit should have 12 gauge wiring and a 20 amp breaker to be safe. Using a 30 amp circuit with 10 gauge wiring wouldn’t properly protect the 12 gauge power cord.
Phy offering a 14 gauge power cord with a NEMA 6-15 plug and a 20 amp breaker, using 12/2 w/g romex and a 6-15 receptacle.
You have the option to use #10 wire, but it must be paired with a 20 amp breaker for protection.
Indoor or outdoor installation? Will the wire need to be buried underground? Do you require a disconnect within 2 meters and visible for your device? A local electrician will be familiar with all the code requirements that you might not be aware of. Most electricians would come over, check out the situation, and give you a quote. You can then compare that quote to a couple of others to make the most cost-effective decision. But if the electrician starts telling you about how he cut corners and something strange happened with the lights or, even worse, a place he worked on burned down, you might want to reconsider.
You’re my inspiration, when all seemed lost you brought life back to me with your incredible work. Thank you for everything, Damaris Ava.
If you have a dedicated circuit close to the machine, it might be pretty cost-effective and simple. ood luck! You’ll definitely need a 2 pole 20 amp breaker and a 20 amp 240 volt outlet.
15 amp. NEMA 6-15
If it’s consuming 14 amps then it’s not exactly 80% of 15
Ot a double pole 20amp breaker with some not-so-great #12 wire.
I understand that #12 can be pricey… but to call it awful? (I believe autocorrect might have changed “awg” to “awful”…🤣🤣🤣
12 items
20 pieces
$300
Can you tell me what numbers are on your plug? The NEMA configuration will help us figure out which outlet it should be plugged into, and what size wire should be used.
If the plug is 30 amps, then make sure to run 30 amp wire to the right receptacle that matches the plug. Depending on whether you need a 3 or 4 prong outlet, you may need to run either 2 wire or 3 wire (2 wire plus ground, or 3 plus ground).
NEMA 6-15…15 amp/240 volt.
If you have wire that’s 75 feet or shorter, go with a 12/2 wg romex and a 2-pole, 20-amp breaker. But if your wire length is between 75 and 150 feet, upgrade to 10/2 with ground while keeping the same breaker size.
Excited to see all the comments about hiring an electrician from those who didn’t read the post.
Even those who claimed they read it, AND saw the images, are still suggesting crazy setups. For just the OP’s query, a 20 amp 2 pole breaker, 12/2 w/g romex, and a 6-15 outlet. After going through all the comments, I suggest installing a 60 amp subpanel in the garage, with a dedicated 2 pole 30 and 30 amp outlet for the laser cutter, a 20 amp 2 pole breaker, and a 6-15 outlet for the chiller (the OP’s original question), and a few extras for more outlets and/or lighting in or around the garage.
Make sure you go through this whole conversation – it’s pretty clear you need to bring in a pro. A lot of folks here seem to be way off the mark with their advice.
Nice attempt, homeowner. et an electrician to explain as you pay them to do it.