Seaneys
New Member
Hello,
I'm running the power to our new a/c air handler (attic with pull down stair) and condenser (outside). The work will be inspected and is permitted.
Both the compressor and air handler are 220v. The compressor requires 30A min. The air handler requires 15A min. I was a little surprised that the air handler is 220v.
I hate to take up 4 positions in my panel for the both the compressor and air handler. To minimize the number of breaker positions required, I'm considering putting in a 50A 220v breaker in the panel to cover both the air handler and the compressor. To do this I would also need locate a 30A (fuse) panel at the compressor and a 15A (breaker) panel at the air handler.
If I have read the NEC correctly, I can use 6ga THHN stranded copper for the lines to the compressor and air handler. I believe I also need 1 1/4 conduit (this seems large). I plan to pull a ground wire with the conduit to be conservative.
Does this seem like a reasonable solution? Would I be better off just biting the bullet and adding a subpanel in the basement if I need it later? 50A at 220V is a little scarey, but it will be in conduit...
Thanks!
Steve
I'm running the power to our new a/c air handler (attic with pull down stair) and condenser (outside). The work will be inspected and is permitted.
Both the compressor and air handler are 220v. The compressor requires 30A min. The air handler requires 15A min. I was a little surprised that the air handler is 220v.
I hate to take up 4 positions in my panel for the both the compressor and air handler. To minimize the number of breaker positions required, I'm considering putting in a 50A 220v breaker in the panel to cover both the air handler and the compressor. To do this I would also need locate a 30A (fuse) panel at the compressor and a 15A (breaker) panel at the air handler.
If I have read the NEC correctly, I can use 6ga THHN stranded copper for the lines to the compressor and air handler. I believe I also need 1 1/4 conduit (this seems large). I plan to pull a ground wire with the conduit to be conservative.
Does this seem like a reasonable solution? Would I be better off just biting the bullet and adding a subpanel in the basement if I need it later? 50A at 220V is a little scarey, but it will be in conduit...
Thanks!
Steve