240v power supply troubleshooting for noobie

obeahsf · Joined: 01 Dec 2016 Posts: 1

Hey all,

I know there are several related threads, but I haven't found anything that addresses my questions exactly. Sorry for redundancy, if in fact this is a repeat.

I am putting together a 10gal system running 5500w heating elements. I am in a rental and have one 220v outlet that is being used by a dryer. I do not have the budget to install another 220, nor do I have permission. I also plan to move in a few years to a permanent location, and would like my expenditures to be more liquid than a $600 install I have to leave.

I saw that Kal mentioned it should be fine to used an appropriate gauged extension to run from dryer outlet. I wonder if there is a 2-outlet extension (splitter) that people might recommend, so that I don't have to pull the dryer out every time I brew. Obviously I would not use dryer and brewery at the same time. Is this even advisable?

Also, due to my supreme lack of understanding of electricity, is it possible to use a step up converter like one of the following instead of going into the dryer outlet?

http://www.220-electronics.com/diamond-series-voltage-converters-stabilizers.html

http://www.220converters.com/Step-Up-Down-Voltage-Converters.htm?gclid=Cj0KEQiAsf_BBRDMpoOHw4aSq4QBEiQAPm7DL1z8V3R0SnVJCWZmFyE6k8BKb4wXB0bWUaXor3ERc_gaAlb48P8HAQ

I assume if I use the latter, I can install GFCI inline? Do I also need to add something to bridge my main breaker?

Thank you for any assistance to a novice.

Michael

**kal**

Welcome to the forum!

Builder · Joined: 03 Sep 2017 Posts: 32 Location: Indiana

What about a short extension cord, like 4 or 5 feet, that would remain plugged into the wall and then you use the female end to switch back and forth between the dryer and brew controller, so you don't have to pull the dryer out each time?

Or if you want to build another project, you could pick up a box, switch, and reversing motor starter to switch between the two outlets. The reversing motor starter is two relays connected by a lever that doesn't allow both relays to pull in at the same time, otherwise you'd have a phase to phase short.

**kal** · Posted: Mon Sep 04, 2017 1:53 pm Post subject:

An extension cord is a temporary connection device.... you are not supposed to run your dryer on an extension cord. An extension cord is not a substitute for building wiring.

By code a dryer needs to be connected to a receptacle with a UL approved power cord since it is an appliance. A do-it-yourself cord doesn't fit that description.

(The electrical code requires the receptacle to be installed near the point of use to eliminate the need for an extension cord in the first place).

Kal

Builder · Joined: 03 Sep 2017 Posts: 32 Location: Indiana

Ok then, one more idea you can't argue.

Plug in your control panel.

Leave it plugged in.

Get a clothesline.

**kal** · Posted: Tue Sep 05, 2017 11:06 pm Post subject:

That would work! Wink

P.S. Just to be clear, I don't want to argue or dissuade people from trying things, but the electrical code-following monkey / engineer in me has to point out what the rules are so that people are aware . What someone chooses to do at the end of the day is completely up to them. I just can't in good conscience go against code and say "yeah, that'll be fine" even though in 99.999% of the cases it will be perfectly fine. I probably say this a lot here, but if anyone has questions about what to do with things that involve the electrical system in their homes, it's always best to ask an electrician instead of asking random people on the internet, and that includes asking me. The problem with asking random people on the internet is that it never takes too long before you find someone that gives you an answer that suits your need (for better or for worse). An electrician is liable and should never recommend something against code (in theory).

Cheers!

Kal

rivetcatcher · Posted: Fri Sep 08, 2017 4:07 pm Post subject:

JSB · Joined: 17 Oct 2016 Posts: 125 Location: NE Ohio

The funny thing is... you are asking an Electrical Engineer... he resides in Canada ( all the love to Canada!)... to sway you from crossing NFPA 70... our National Electrical Code in the US... what US electricians use... for a guy in Thailand!

Smile