Disconnecting Means for Low HP Motors (<1HP)

[dbaltazar]

What are some of the best options (in terms of price, ease of install, etc.) for providing a disconnecting means for low horsepower motors? I've seen several different options spec-ed out including manual motor controllers, combination starters, typical disconnects; does anyone have any suggestions that they have used or seen used that they would recommend? Additionally, every motor needs a disconnecting means within sight of the motor/controller, correct? Meaning a circuit breaker can only be provided as a disconnect so long as the motor/controller are within sight of the breaker and the motor/controller itself contains overload protection?

 

[suemarkp]

Cord and plug, or AC Only snap switch (these are your normal quiet wall switch and it says "AC Only" on the strap). See 404.14(A).

 

[hbiss]

Most, if not all fractional horsepower motors are thermally protected so no starters are required. As for a disconnect, a plain old toggle switch is used.

-Hal

 

[mikeames]

Levitons Double pole 30A switch is a common disconnect for small motors.

https://www.leviton.com/en/docs/Q-776A_30_Amp_AC_Toggle_Switches_PB.pdf

 

[LarryFine]

Don't toggle switches require an HP rating for motor loads?

Added: I see that all of them in the chart are rated at 2HP.

Can a 30a 2p toggle be used as an outside A/C disconnect?

 

[mikeames]

I think so 404.14? But after you add the WP box and cover its probably not worth it.