Replace 125v outlet w/ 250v outlet?

Question

I recently purchased a welder that requires a plug and outlet w/ 220v. I purchased a 250v/ 20amp plug and outlet and installed it into my garage where there used to be a standard 125v 20amp outlet. Nothing happened. Can I install a 250v outlet where there used to be a 125v outlet?

Update:
I just had the white and black wires backwards. I switched them and it works fine. However, according to the responses, I should have a different gauge wire coming from the breaker box. Is there an easier way such as using a lower voltage transformer, instead of re-doing the electrical work?

Answer 1

An electrician can- for pretty cheap. If you don't know exactly what to do, don't touch it. You're risking your safety, a fire in the walls, and your new toy.

You would need properly sized, grounded wiring from your breaker box to the outlet in question (its likely there, but a pro would know). The electrician would replace the receptacle at the wall side and add/replace/choose an appropriately sized breaker in the main panel. If they don't need to pull wire, this should be no more than a 1 hour job... not enough money to risk you home over.

Read your update- and you are still at risk. You now have a 220 plug in a 110 circuit. The welder likely has some electronics in it that helps make up for the difference (like a big ol' capacitor), but will be running undercurrent, which can hurt the welder, and its performance.

Additionally, having a 220 outlet on a 110 circuit is unsafe- you may know what the situation is, but those following you in the house (future owners, tradespeople, idiot neighbors), will not.

Answer 2

you have to run a 220 line from your breaker box.

Answer 3

alternatively you can use a transformer