I want to put an electrical heater in my garage. The specs are as follows: 10.0/7.5 KW, 240/208 V, 1/3 Phase, 49 amps. Would I be OK to run 8 gauge wire on a 50 amp 2 pole breaker or should I go larger? The 49 amp rating is the max at start up and the unit averages 42 amps while running. Also I am installing this unit high up near the ceiling and want to put an on/off switch lower down the wall. What kind of switch should I use for this? I thank you in advance for your answer.

You will need #6 on a 60A breaker.

For a switch you would need a 60A disconnect. You could use a pullout style disconnect like those typically used on A/C units, but I would just use the breaker.

Question, why up high? You do realize this will be much less efficient.

You will need #6 on a 60A breaker.

For a switch you would need a 60A disconnect. You could use a pullout style disconnect like those typically used on A/C units, but I would just use the breaker.

Question, why up high? You do realize this will be much less efficient.

Thanks for the quick response. I probably will put it midway between floor and ceiling after your answer. I wanted a switch because the breaker panel is in the basement and I wanted a means to turn it on and off in the garage. I will probably go with a disconnect. Another question I have is that the wire will be partially in the wall and partially in conduit. Can I use Romex for concealed wire, put in an exposed junction box and go from junction box to heater with individual, color coded wires that I think are called THHN wire? Would this be conforming to electrical code"