Exhaust fan in restaurant kitchen

[iwirehouses]

I need to install wiring for a small exhaust fan in a pizza shop. The problem is, the 42 space, 3 phase panel, only has one space left. Most exhaust fans I've encountered are around 20 amps, 220v. Is it unheard of to put a 110v exhaust fan in a commercial enviornment?

 

[LarryFine]

Is it unheard of to put a 110v exhaust fan in a commercial enviornment?

Not at all. Some motors can be connected for either voltage, but there are plenty of 120v-only exhaust (and make-up air) blower motors.

You really don't know until the motor is supplied (unless they're open to your input), and you might have to add a sub-panel for the space.

If you do, look into moving severel small loads to it, so its feeder need not be sized for any large individual loads. That can save a bit of money.

 

[iwirehouses]

Thanks Larry. I do have a little influence on what motor they get. I just didn't know if it would be frowned upon, putting in a 110 motor because its easier. If I do install a sub panel, can I make it 220 or does it have to be 3 phase? Thanks again.

 

[Rewire]

We just replaced an exhaust motor it could be wire 120 or 240.

 

[LarryFine]

I just didn't know if it would be frowned upon, putting in a 110 motor because its easier.

Generalizations:

1. The higher voltage means lower current, and is usually cheaper to wire, except for a contactor.

2. With a 240v or 3ph motor, a contactor is a must; most micro-switches can handle a 120v motor.

3. The exhaust is the larger motor, and may be too large for a reasonable (20a or less) 120v supply.

If I do install a sub panel, can I make it 220 or does it have to be 3 phase.

There's no rule for this. The supply is usually made to suit the load, not the other way around.

If your supply is 208v 3ph, you'll only get 208v 1ph anyway. Go by the quantity of circuits you need to add.