Air Compressor Wiring

[ironman]

I am buying a new IR SS3L3 air compressor for my shop. The unit is a 3hp, 230V compressor. I only have four breaker slots in the subfeed panel in my shop and they are all used up. Two for the welder and the other two for lights, 110 outlets etc. Can I put a standard 6-50-p welder plug on the compressor and use my existing HH-180, 30 amp outlet or do I need to run a new circuit. Thanks!

[BillDaCatt]

If your compressor also requires a 30A breaker, go for it. If it requires a smaller breaker, say 20A, change the breaker too. I run my HH187, and previously my HH180, on a 20A breaker and have never tripped it. Even when running it maxed out.

The idea is to run the lightest breaker you can without tripping it all the time.

Dave

[Bern_F150_4X4]

I'd run another outet for the compressor on the 30A circuit, but the trouble will start when you're running a bead and that 3HP motor kicks in Gotta fix them air leaks!

[Sberry]

I would suspect that comp can run from a 30A circuit no problem unless the owners manual specifically limits the breaker size. It likely has 14 wire, then 30A, if it has number 12 it could go on circuits to 50A