Electric Chain Saw Current Draw
Over the years I have purchased two 3.5 HP electric chain saws and although using them only infrequently for trimming trees and clearing storm damage, I have cooked them both. I now have ordered a new Poulan 3.5 HP electric saw and it should be here (home) 08-18-2009. It's rated 12 Amps.
I have cooked the motors because of undersized extension cords. These saws are not supplied with thermal overload protection nor a current fuse. I know that each 50-foot length of extension cord that I include decreases the voltage at the saw motor and increases the current. I also know that I should be using 10 AWG extension cords, but it's simply less expensive to purchase another saw.
I don't understand the 12 Amp rating because 12 x 110 / 745 = 1.8 HP (not 3.5 HP)
I could sure use your enlightenment with that.
Anyway, I'm thinkig about mounting a 10 Amp circuit breaker in a plastic watertight Bud Box. The box will include a male panel mount plug that my extension cord will plug into. On the other end of the box will be approximately 6-feet of power cord and a female receptacle that will plug onto the chain saw. As such, I am now limiting the current at the saw to 10 Amps.
Will this prevent me from cooking my new saw?