Replies

1. 
   John_Sprung | May 16, 2001 07:37pm | #1

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   Brian --

   Code absolutely requires breakers in your panel for this. If you had breakers at the unit instead, a short between there and the panel would have nothing to stop it from burning up but the main breaker. Unless you run #3/0 to the A/C, that wouldn't be enough. And even if you did that, an A/C problem would put the whole electrical system down and leave you in the dark.

   The disconnecting means has to be both within sight of the unit, and IIRC, within 50 feet of it. The idea is that when you're working on the unit, you need to be able to see that the switch is off, and see if somebody goes to turn it on, so you can yell at them.

   -- J.S.

1. 
   Frank_DuVal | May 17, 2001 05:06am | #2

   *And,Air handler usually has lower amp requirements than the compressor (condenser unit), so separate breakers are recomended. You could put one 220 volt breaker in the box and use it to power a subpanel with the separate breakers for outside and inside units. You can use a non-fuseable disconnect at each unit as long as the breakers are sized properly. Some inside units have built in disconnects.Frank DuVal

1. 
   Jim_Orban | May 17, 2001 04:07pm | #3

   *Brian,And,if you have limited space in your panel box, you should be able to replace regular breakers with 'mini' or 'slim' type ones.Jim

1. 
   Scooter_ | May 17, 2001 06:08pm | #4

   *Or just "T" off main line input (without a breaker) at top of service panel, and take the lines to a box with breakers and a throw switch within a couple feet. Then take your 60amp lines to the AC where you install a subpanel. This way no new breakers are needed in the box. Ground your new subpanel.

2. 
   BrianGale | May 17, 2001 06:08pm | #5

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   Hi-

   Planning to add central air to the house. Standard 2 ton condensor outside.

   What exactly do I need for a 220V disconnect box outside? Specifically- fused or not? I have limited space if any for new breakers in the 200 AMP service box inside. If I use a fused disconnect outside, do I need breakers in the box for it (seems redundant), or can I tap right in to the terminal strips? Also need a 220 V line to the attic for the air handler (Unico), could these lines somehow be combined to the same breaker...?

   Hope this makes sense - thanks for any advice.

   -Brian