230 Volt Air Compressor with 110 volt?

Question

I have a 230 Volt air compressor that I am borrowing, but i only have the standard 110 outlet.... How can i run this to restore my VW Bus? I dont want to burn down the house or anything.....

Answer 1

The compressor is designed for 230V, most likely because it uses more power than any 110V outlet is likely able to provide. Even if you have a step-up transformer capable of handling the compressor's startup current, what will you plug it into? Look at the current or power rating of the compressor. If it requires 220/230V 10A service, with transformer losses, you'll probably need 110/115V 25A service to feed it. If your main service entrance is so old it doesn't provide 220V, don't try it there. If it does, use your dryer outlet, or get an electrician to install a 220V outlet. That's likely cheaper than a high capacity step-up transformer that you'll never use again. Or rent a generator to do your job.

Answer 2

First off, if it is a 3-phase 220 VAC motor you are screwed and you can't run it off single-phase 120 VAC, or single-phase 208 VAC for that matter. So if the plug on the compressor has four pins instead of three, give it back and get a different one.

It won't hurt the motor to run it at 120VAC, but you won't get the full rated pressure or flow out of the unit. Assuming it is a single-phase motor and that you are in N. America with standard residential voltages, you have 120 VAC and very likely 208 VAC in your home. So you're going to either need a transformer to turn the 120VAC into 208 VAC, or, find your electrical drier outlet or electric range outlet and figure out what kind of plug you need to connect the compressor to either of those circuits.

You can check to make sure the drier/range outlet is 208 V by looking at your circuit breaker panel or fuse box. The circuit box will look like this:

http://toronto.craigslist.org/mat/440566098.html

and on the right in the image is a "double" breaker. That will be a 208V circuit. If it's a triple, then it's 3-phase.

Answer 3

use a step-up transformer....