What Size Breaker Do I Need For A 220v Window Air Conditioner?
What Size Breaker Do I Need For A 220v Window Air Conditioner?
The amp draw at 220V is 9.09A. Taking into account the 80% NEC rule, this results in a minimum breaker size requirement of 11.36A. We still require a 15A circuit breaker. Lower energy efficiency: If the 24,000 BTU unit consumes 2,800W, we will require more amps.
At 15A, that is 37.92A of the draw. Side -note: If you can get a unit with a higher BTU capacity, you may be able to get away with a smaller breaker. These breakers have a keyway and the pole is not set up for the larger changeover.
220V breaker with a 12.25A rating is required. The two breakers in a 50A changeover box have an 18.75A rating each. This assumes the flex is plugged into the top outlet and the bottom is left open for future circuits or high-wattage appliances.
You might be able to get away with a 9A circuit breaker, but you can’t go much lower than that and still be safe. I went with 10A because it was readily available at my local hardware store and will work fine for this circuit load.
Ground fault protection devices are an NEC code requirement. Look for Overload Protection on all surge protectors, even if they are not required. It is free, and it protects your equipment for many years.
Be sure to get the A/C breaker listed at the same amp rating as your existing ATX breaker. If you are using a 20A circuit, you need to get a 20A breaker installed on your new unit.
Can A Window Air Conditioner Be Used In An RV?
Yes. For smaller RVs and campers, installing a window AC unit is a great option. These units, however, are typically designed for a standard window. So you might have to pull out the tools and make your own frame.
Also, some of them come with a converter box and a power cord set that can be hooked into your 12-volt system. If you’re using a converter box, the DC to AC cord will go directly into the unit.
If your RV doesn’t have a 12-volt system and isn’t compatible with a converter box, you can always buy an adapter to convert the ac power to DC so that one of these units can be installed.
The RV industry has been moving away from window air conditioning systems because they are outdated and don’t meet modern design standards or current energy inefficiency standards.
The most common problems owners have with window air conditioners and RVs are:
- The units are located on the roof of the RV, which can cause back and neck strain when standing at a window.
- They can be noisy because of the blower motors, an issue especially if you have to run them at full capacity to cool a large area of your RV.
- They should be used in conjunction with insulation or other technologies to keep out noise, drafts, and moisture from causing damage to the RV’s interior space.
But you will need an adapter to connect your window AC unit to the RV’s electrical system. You will also need to plug the RV into an external power source, like a trailered generator, or some other means of off-grid power in order for your air conditioner to operate.
