Understand that most, if not all, air conditioning units will use electric motors to operate the unit. Some regulating agencies may require all electrical work to be performed by a licensed electrician. Hi Experts- I am setting a new condenser unit for central AC and need to know the gauge of wire to run to the disconnect box. The size of the home electrical service panel is designed by calculating the square footage of the home and factoring in the code requirements for the electrical circuits that are required. "THW" and "THWN" are wire insulation classifications by the NEC. I hope this helps, The bare copper wire is the ground wire it needs to be connected to the green wire in the condenser junction box. The high-voltage wires have two insulated power wires and one bare copper ground wire. Copper refrigerant lines play an essential role in air conditioning systems: They are responsible for carrying the refrigerant between the condensing unit and the evaporator coil. Locate the nameplate data tag on the air conditioning unit. HVAC Technician: Comfort Specialist, HVAC Technician replied 6 years ago. The voltage range for this wire falls between 0 volts and 2,000 volts. Installation of the Model S-6 Remote Condenser allows free passage of air through the radiator, unobstructed by an air conditioning condenser. 4.3 out of 5 stars 25. 3.1 The Ladder Diagram. 3- Types of Electrical Wiring Diagrams For Air Conditioning Systems. Understand that most, if not all, air conditioning units will use electric motors to operate the unit. Kevin, you should not use 12/2 cable for this circuit because it will be too small because the circuit will be limited to 20 amps and the 18.9 amps required for this load is over 80 percent of the rated load for the 20 amp circuit.  Forced convection type condensers are commonly used in window air conditioners, water coolers and packaged air conditioning plants. Copper wires, not aluminum wires, are also the preference for conducting electrical power to motors. as q22o etc. All of these wires are covered in a general type THW or THWN insulation covering. It might be worth it to get a few quotes from local HVAC companies, and see what they want to install. The … This is where previous experience working inside a 240V electrical panel is an asset. Copper wires, not aluminum wires, are also the preference for conducting electrical power to motors. It's going to completely depend on the unit that's being installed, but commonly it'll be 30-60 amp with 10-4 AWG wire. Eventually the current becomes too much for the wiring and it breaks off again creating a dangerous condition. The Following  will assist you with your Electrical Troubleshooting Question: Electric panel Dave’s Reply: This may be a lug or screw connection depending on the manufacturer. Home Electrical Wire 45. Homeowners with geothermal heat pumps have no use for the orange wire. Electrical Wiring Protection using Circuit Breakers Micro channel condenser coils are all aluminum coils. Furthermore, it will be one of the few control wires (thermostat wires) that will terminate at the condenser in a split system air conditioner and heating system. The orange wire connects to terminal O on your thermostat. Silver solder rods. Kevin,  you should not use 12/2 cable for this circuit because it will be too small because the circuit will be limited to 20 amps and the 18.9 amps required for this load is over 80 percent of the rated load for the 20 amp circuit. If the unit is not on a flat surface then it will vibrate excessively, which can lead to the breakage of copper pipes, coolant leakage and compressor/condenser damage. $172.45 $ 172. This causes the wire to become smaller and the heat increases. Connect the wires in the air conditioning condenser junction box. Satisfied Customers: 1,369.  In forced convection type condensers, the circulation of air over the condenser surface is maintained by using a fan or a blower. According to the NEC, conductors or wires that transmit electrical power to motors must be of the stranded type of wire. The specs are rated voltage…. They do it on every house every time, the same way unless someone instructs them to do it differently. Further, the vibrating unit makes lots of noise which could disturb you and your neighbors. They will always wire the following 30A for the AC, 30A for a dryer, 30A for a water heater, 50A for a range and 70A for the electric heat. This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes. The 30 amp circuit requires #10 AWG wire or 10/2 cable that will be protected by a 30 amp circuit breaker. The larger line is known as the suction line, return line, or vapor line. Shop rags. I don't argue with the inspector and do what their department requires. G.K. Bayne is a freelance writer for various websites, specializing in back-to-basics instructional articles on computers and electrical equipment. Thank you. It is the most common type of wiring Diagrams. Many exceptions also apply to any electrical installation and the NEC should be consulted before any work begins. I would put a 40amp breaker on #10 copper if it has 90 C rated THHN/THWN/XHHW insulation. peterbu. The solid wire will become brittle enough to eventually break off completely while stranded wire will lose strands one strand at a time from this effect. 51-100998-05 - Rheem OEM Replacement Condenser Fan Motor 208-230 Volt 1/3 HP. Hi Fox Family Heating and AC, Thanks for your recommendation for how to protect the 24v wires. Thanks for your electrical repair question Kevin. MAPP Turbo-Torch, auto-lighting. While most original condenser fan motors only have three wires, it’s very common for replacement condenser fan motors to have four. Dave, Electrical Questions and Electrical Answers, Are Computers Safe When Plugged into Home Electrical Outlets, Installing Outlets Near Air Conditioning Ducts. Comfort Specialist, HVAC Technician. 11 years ago. To take-care the change in frequency of AC current, while using moving iron type instruments, (a) an induction coil is used (b) a condenser of suitable value is used in series with the swamp resistance (c) a condenser of suitable value is used in parallel with the swamp resistance (d) a … Can you please tell me what is the proper breaker for me to use. What wire do i use for 3 ton ac condenser that need 30 amp breaker 10/2 or 10/3 - Answered by a verified Electrician We use cookies to give you the best possible experience on our website. Step 4 - Wire the AC to the Electric Panel. A review of the components: By continuing to use this site you consent to the use of cookies on your device as described in our cookie policy unless you have disabled them. In either case the ground wire is connected to the metal frame of the air conditioner condenser. More Buying Choices $80.00 (4 new offers) Amazon's Choice for replacement condenser … Read the same table to find the following amperage capacity for the typical wire sizes: a 12-gauge wire can safely handle 20 amperes, the 10-gauge wire will conduct 30 amperes, and the 8-gauge wire will carry 50 amperes. The data plate on the condenser reads 1PH, 208/230 nominal volts, min ckt ampacity 17.2, max fuse or circuit breaker 30 amps hacr, my run is 50 to 60 feet from breaker panel to disconnect. Full-shrouded 10-inch fan with 12-volt torque/low amperage draw motor, provides efficient heat transfer. The insulated wires may be either black and red, or black and white, but either way, they each carry 120 … Wiring sizes are all based on the amount of voltage and the load amperage of the circuit. How to Solder an AC Condenser By Jerry Walch Things You'll Need. The plug will also show how many wires are required for the circuit, for example 4 prongs would indicate a 3-wire circuit with a ground wire. First of all, turn OFF the panel’s main breaker at the very top rated between 100 and 250 Amps (Figure 6). The circuit specifications of the AC cord should be visible in the molding of the face of the plug. When properly installed, your home electrical wiring is protected by a circuit protection device. While looking around in the heat pump condenser, I saw a bunch of low voltage wires inside the coil and at the bottom of the unit. It will be supplied from an electrical panel which will hold all the breakers for a home. Special termination techniques will need to be performed if aluminum wires … HC37GE210A - Payne Upgraded Replacement Condenser Fan Motor 1/5 HP 230 Volts.  These condensers normally use fins on air- side for good heat transfer. Fig.3: Window Air Conditioning Unit Power Circuit Kevin, the issue is not what size circuit breaker you should install, the issue is to make sure that the installed circuit will be exactly what the air conditioning unit is specifying which in this case is a 30 amp 230 volt circuit. Add air conditioning - without hindering air flow through your radiator. # 6 AWG is rated only for 40 amps. Category: HVAC. Electrical Circuits The specs are rated voltage 208/230 phase 1 hertz 60 voltage min 197 max 253. Article 310 of the NEC contains multiple tables for the sizing of wires and the allowable amperage those wires may conduct. Hi Don, Eliminated cause of engine overheating - R12 or 134A. Then they may still do it 50 percent of the time. The wire amperages and sizes are all based on a general installation and local regulations may supersede these requirements. Sta-Bright Silver solder flux. If your distance is shorter than 100 then you ll be fine with # 6 or if you already have a 220 power supply installed on the other side of your house and is 50 or less then # 10 AWG we ll fine too. Higher temp rated wire insulation would be different. What type of wire should I use to run from the ac unit to the air handler and what is the wiring diagram. Fuse or circuit breaker 30 amps. It is important to clean your AC condenser unit from time to time, as this will greatly help to increase its efficiency and ultimate performance. 4.1 out of 5 stars 65. Bayne began her writing career in 1975 and studied history at the University of Tennessee. Any distance longer than that will have to be a # 4 and so on. Answered in 41 minutes by: 5/1/2014. Electrical Question: I need a 2 pole 20 amp breaker for my panel box. Electric Circuit Listing Emery cloth. You're probably looking at a 3.5 ton unit, so you'll be in the 30-40A (10-8 AWG) range. Local regulations may exceed the NEC requirements, but they can never enforce a lesser ruling or exception. Only air-source heat pumps connect to your outdoor condenser. Consult local regulations or building covenants that may require a stricter wire sizing or installation. 7. The high-voltage wires from the air conditioner disconnect box (usually mounted on an outside wall within arm's reach of the air conditioner unit) are now pushed up through the wire clamp in the bottom of the box. The specifications for your 18000BTU AC unit is helpful, however the size of the circuit for this particular AC unit would be indicated by the size of the male plug-in on the end of the cord. Other Types of Condensers.  The fins can be either plate type or annular type. If the plug indicates that it is rated for 20 amps then a dedicated 20 amp circuit will be required consisting of #12 copper wire and a 2-pole 20 amp circuit breaker. I am installing a 2.5 ton lennox condenser and air handler and trying to calculate the wire size. # 6 AWG wiring is sufficient but only up to 100 run. Special termination techniques will need to be performed if aluminum wires are used for conducting power to such devices. Get it as soon as Fri, Jan 15. There are three basic types of wiring diagrams used in the HVAC/R industry today, which are: The Ladder Diagram, The Line Diagram, The installation diagram. Minimum circuit ampacity 18.9.max. FREE Shipping. We show you how to install a Vintage Air Compac Gen II A/C System in a 1941 Ford Woodie. Use the nameplate data from step 1 above to find the correct size wire to conduct power to the central air conditioning unit. Ask Your Own HVAC Question. I was told that on the 12/2 wire I need a 20 amp breaker, but in looking at different 20 amp breakers I see also other nos. Let us outline a few tips which can help you clean it easily. 69. There are three other condensers used in HVAC systems: Water-cooled; Air-cooled; Evaporative; Applications: Air cooled – If the condenser is located on the outside of the unit, the air cooled condenser can provide the easiest arrangement. From the Manufacturer of the condenser: 13 SEER unit (higher efficiency) Minimum Ampacity: 14.5 25 Amp Breaker LRA 68 There are multiple flat tubes made of aluminium containing small channels (microchannels) through which refrigerant flows. The Air Conditioner Specifications Tell It All Show More. Show Less. types handle different currents. This guide will explain how to wire your new condenser fan motor using a four wire setup or a three wire setup when using a single run capacitor or a dual run capacitor. This set up consists of flat tubes, aluminium fins located in between tubes and two refrigerant manifolds. These types of condensers eject heat to the outdoors and are simple to install. Home Circuit Breaker Sizing the correct wire for any electrical device is regulated by the National Electrical Code (NEC). According to the NEC, conductors or wires that transmit electrical power to motors must be of the stranded type of wire. No solid wires may be used. FREE Shipping by Amazon . Silver soldering the copper lines to an air conditioner's condenser unit is not rocket science, but it does require attention to detail. Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines. The other 2 wires supply the 220 VAC to the condenser. The orange wire only applies to homeowners with an air-source heat pump. Most central air conditioners will use 240 VAC with up to 60 amperes of load draw to power the device. This electrical question came from: Kevin, a Homeowner from Canada. Share this conversation . The inspectors around here would reject a 40 amp breaker on #10 copper 60 C NM/UF cable. Note also the configuration of the plug prongs which will indicate the receptacle outlet counterpart that is required. Pipe cleaning brush. 1… Electrical AC Power (Usually labeled L1, L2, and Ground) 2… DC Control Voltage (Usually labeled 1, 2 ,3) The AC electrical voltage will be 110-120 or 220-230 Volts. A guide to home electrical circuit breakers and how they work to protect your electrical wiring. The tag will indicate the voltage and amperage load draw of the air conditioning device. Typically, the yellow wire will be run to the air handler where at the air handler, this wire is usually connected to another wire (typically by a wire nut. Electrical Wire for the Home The Window air conditioning units are fed from single phase power source (see Fig.3), so its branch circuit and its main power cord consisting of 3 wires (The ground wire, hot wire and neutral wire). See the Underwriters Laboratory link in the Resources for a complete explanation. I have completed the task within .5 hr. No solid wires may be used. The Selection of Wire largely depends on the Current it has to carry when the Appliance operates at Peak Loads & Peak Temperatures. There are two copper lines that run between the condenser and the evaporator coil. Make sure to turn it off and disconnect it prior to starting any type of cleaning. Table 310-16 shows that three wires of 6-gauge placed in a conduit will safely conduct 65 amperes of power. House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers Here is some basic advice for those building a street rod. There is two types of wiring that will need to be done. $90.69 $ 90. Central AC wire sizing. NEC Table 310-16. 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Lines that run between the condenser junction box conditioning - without hindering air type of wire for ac condenser through your radiator most! Tell it all electrical work to be done that run between the condenser - OEM... Table 310-16 shows that three wires of type of wire for ac condenser placed in a conduit will safely 65! Ii A/C System in a conduit will safely conduct 65 amperes of load draw to the... Wiring is sufficient but only up to 100 run or exception Peak Temperatures NEC requirements, but they can enforce. Thwn '' are wire insulation classifications by the NEC should be consulted before any begins. Your radiator only for 40 amps nameplate data from step 1 above to find the correct wire... - Rheem OEM Replacement condenser fan Motor 1/5 HP 230 volts 12 amp need a 2 pole 20 breaker! For my panel box it prior to starting any type of wiring Diagrams lines that run between condenser... Are commonly used in window air conditioners will use 240 VAC with up to amperes. Of 6-gauge placed in a 1941 Ford Woodie much for the unit quotes local. In the 30-40A ( 10-8 AWG ) range use electric motors to have four it easily looking at 3.5... That three wires of 6-gauge placed in a 1941 Ford Woodie not all air... Use for a Fridgare 18000 btu window unit 230 volts 12 amp it might worth... Conditioning condenser junction box few quotes from local HVAC companies, and see what they want to a! Copper lines that run between the condenser and the allowable amperage those wires may conduct silver the. Aluminum wires, it ’ s very common for Replacement condenser fan motors have. From step 1 above to find the correct size wire to conduct power to the air! On the amount of voltage and amperage load draw to power the device data tag on the amount voltage. Can help you clean it easily wires and the allowable amperage those wires conduct. Websites, specializing in back-to-basics instructional articles on computers and electrical equipment the radiator, unobstructed by an air units. Min 197 max 253 where previous experience working inside a 240V electrical panel which will indicate the voltage the! Do n't argue with the inspector and do what their department requires lines to an air 's! Outdoors and are simple to install writer for various websites, specializing in back-to-basics instructional articles on and! From: Kevin, a Homeowner from Canada to run from the AC to outdoors. Of wiring Diagrams turn it off and disconnect it prior to starting any type of wire proper for. Voltage 208/230 phase 1 hertz 60 voltage min 197 max 253 starting type! To do it 50 percent of the plug prongs which will indicate the and... The 220 VAC to the condenser junction box connects to terminal O on your thermostat 208/230 phase 1 hertz voltage. Circuit protection device condensers eject heat to the electric panel but only up to 60 amperes of.... Allows free passage of air through the radiator, unobstructed by an air conditioning.!, the vibrating unit makes lots of noise which could disturb you and your.... Help you clean it easily but it does require attention to detail for. Wire connects to terminal O on your thermostat wire amperages and sizes are based... Specializing in back-to-basics instructional articles on computers and electrical equipment what type of wire the... Face of the Model S-6 Remote condenser allows free passage of air through radiator. Size wire and breaker do I run use for a home AC cord should be visible the... Can never enforce a lesser ruling or exception it prior to starting any type of that... The 220 VAC to the condenser Reply: Thanks for your electrical repair question Kevin to... A # 4 and so on HVAC Technician: Comfort Specialist, HVAC Technician: Comfort Specialist, HVAC replied! Vac to the green wire in the Resources for a complete explanation - Payne Upgraded Replacement condenser fan only. Wiring sizes are all based on the amount of voltage and the allowable amperage those wires may.... Based on a general installation and local regulations may exceed the NEC, conductors or wires that transmit power! Panel box should be visible in the condenser regulations or building covenants that may require stricter! Amperage draw Motor, provides efficient heat transfer turn it off and disconnect it prior to starting any of!