120V 30 Amp outlet converted to 220V

Eric Faber · 09-23-2011, 07:49 AM

I currently have an outlet the was installed by PO of my house. The outlet is the large 3 prong 120v/30amp. I am wondering if it is possible to convert upgrade this outlet to 3 or 4 prong 220-240v/60amp outlet. The current wiring is 3/12. The wiring is easily replaceable with larger gauge if needed.

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Tony Cole · 09-23-2011, 08:05 AM

There are a couple of problems here. First a 3/12(wg) is for 20 amp 120-240V outlets, such as for something like a ceiling fan with a light switch. the outlet doesn't match the conductor now. Is the breaker a 20 amp or 30? If you want to convert this to a 60 amp outlet, you need to replace the conductor with one suitible for 60 amps, along with a proper receptacle, such as a 14-60R.

Eric Faber · 09-23-2011, 08:22 AM

Tony

I will have to check when I get home but I thought it was a 30, could easily be wrong with that. I only thought 30 because PO had a camper and it more than likely use that outlet for the camper. I was planning on replacing the outlet and breaker.

Tony Cole · 09-23-2011, 09:01 AM

Replace the entire setup for a 60 amp receptacle, conductors included.

Eric Faber · 09-23-2011, 09:22 AM

Another quick question for that circuit. My welder requires a 220v/60amp circuit. I have other equipment 220v/30amp I believe. Does only having that 60 amp circuit pose a safety issue?

I hope you understand what I am getting at.

Eric

Tony Cole · 09-23-2011, 09:30 AM

Originally Posted by Eric Faber

Another quick question for that circuit. My welder requires a 220v/60amp circuit. I have other equipment 220v/30amp I believe. Does only having that 60 amp circuit pose a safety issue?

I hope you understand what I am getting at.

Eric

I do, but the 60 amp circuit can only be used for the equipment it is designed for. A 30 amp plug will not, nor should it, fit into a 60 amp receptacle. You should run another circuit for the 30 amp equipment.