New Guy - Q. about Power Req.

[Heavy-Chevy]

Hi all,
I just found the forums yesterday. Looks like a great site.

I just bought the Millermatic 180 and thought I had my shop ready to go with the right power requirements. Not so. I have a 220 line ran on a double 20amp breaker that’s about 10-12 feet from the box. It’s run with NM 12/2 wire with the wrong type outlet.

For fear of burning it up or just not being able to support the draw of the welder.

My question is this. Should I re-run a heavier wire with a larger breaker? Something like a #8 wire with a 30amp or even a 50amp breaker with a #6 wire? I’ll also need to install the right outlet for the welder (the name alludes me at the moment).

Spec Requirements:
1-Phase, 230V, 21.7Amp, 60Hz

Thanks in advance for the help/guidance.
Jim

[TS-Off-Road]

Your breakers are matched pretty good to you welder. The wire size is fine just change the outlet to the one you need.

[MAC702]

Agreed. The National Electric Code agrees also.

That welder will work just fine and safely on #12 wires, esp. at that short distance. You should even replace the breaker with a 30A and leave the #12 wires, if this receptacle is dedicated for welder use only.

Just replace the receptacle with a NEMA 6-50R.

[Heavy-Chevy]

WOW, such quick responses.

That’s fantastic news. I was wondering about leaving the wire in place . . .
I've read a lot about hooking a dedicated outlet up for this welder and found that most if not all ratings are based on Amps. /draw.

I just wanted to double check – safety and all, ya know.

Thanks a mill, guys.

Jim