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View Full Version : Why is there different 220 plugs?


bsjbrown
Oct 27, 2010, 08:34 PM
We are wanting to install a PTAC with heat pump. The 220 plug on the unit is not the same as in our wall. What should we do?

RickJ
Oct 29, 2010, 11:28 AM
The reason is because not all manufacturers are on the same page.

Draw a diagram of your plug and take it to your local Home Depot or Lowe's and they'll sell you a new outlet that you can have installed pretty easily. Be SURE to follow the directions carefully.

Failure to follow the directions carefully can result in severe bodily damage or death.

tkrussell
Oct 30, 2010, 03:58 AM
This statement is incorrect:



The reason is because not all manufacturers are on the same page.

All manufacturers are on the same page, as any manufacturer that chose to produce electrical material and sell in the USA must have their product inspected and listed by a third party testing laboratory, such as UL, and must subscribe the standards that apply to their product.

Plugs and receptacles are subjected to the standards of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

See chart below of the various plug and receptacle configurations. The purpose is to prevent problems, such as a 50 amp load being connected to a 20 amp circuit, for example.

Devices with R are female receptacles, and P represent male plugs, they typical one everyone has in their home is the 5-15R.

Keep in mind, you cannot just change a plug or receptacle to match what you need to plug in. If you have an appliance that needs 30 amp, and you have an existing 20 amp circuit, the entire circuit for the 30 amp appliance must be rated 30 amp, to include not only the plug and receptacle but must include the wire and circuit breaker, and any other amp rated devices in the circuit.