Power surge problems: Converting a 240v to a 120v

[Mike7]

Hey guys, I've got my entire g-op running off a single 400-w, and all my other equipment (pumps, fans, exhaust, etc.), and get the occasional power outtage. I have an empty 240v plug from an old dryer/washer that was removed. I was wondering if it would be possible to hook something up to convert this plug into a bunch of 120v's. I am assuming this would make a power outtage less likely??

Any ideas guys? THanks.

 

[Jakenbake]

What do you mean by power outage? Like the breaker's flip or ALL the power in your house goes out?

 

[Mike7]

only the breaker for that outlet/set of outlets goes out.

 

[Jakenbake]

Your problem is you are trying to pull too many amps through one circuit. Most outlets are run to a 15A circuit breaker in your box. You could potentially buy a 240V step-down transformer and this should solve your problem because the 240V outlets are made to handle in excess of 30A but they can cost anywhere from $40 to $150+. Your other, albeit dangerous option if you don't know what you're doing is installing a circuit breaker that's designed to handle 30A or 40A in place of the current one you have. If you don't know much about electricity and more over a circuit breaker see if someone you know does. Those breakers don't cost a whole lot, but if you don't cut the main power line before trying it, it's a sure-fire way to kill yourself.

 

[Mike7]

Your problem is you are trying to pull too many amps through one circuit. Most outlets are run to a 15A circuit breaker in your box. You could potentially buy a 240V step-down transformer and this should solve your problem because the 240V outlets are made to handle in excess of 30A but they can cost anywhere from $40 to $150+. Your other, albeit dangerous option if you don't know what you're doing is installing a circuit breaker that's designed to handle 30A or 40A in place of the current one you have. If you don't know much about electricity and more over a circuit breaker see if someone you know does. Those breakers don't cost a whole lot, but if you don't cut the main power line before trying it, it's a sure-fire way to kill yourself.

Okay, well rule out the dangerous option immediatly. So another option i think would be to run a little extension cord from another part of the basement that uses a different fuse, that would probably be a better option, eh?

 

[Jakenbake]

If you can run a solid gauge cord that would be the easiest and most inexpensive. As long as the socket you're running a cord from is on a separate circuit, you're golden

Just divide up all your equip and try to even out the load between the two.

:EDIT: and by solid gauge I mean something like a 18awg to 12awg extension cord. Not one of those generic 'I need to plug a lamp in across the room' cords

 

[Mike7]

Awesome, thanks for all of your help man!

If you can run a solid gauge cord that would be the easiest and most inexpensive. As long as the socket you're running a cord from is on a separate circuit, you're golden

Just divide up all your equip and try to even out the load between the two.

:EDIT: and by solid gauge I mean something like a 18awg to 12awg extension cord. Not one of those generic 'I need to plug a lamp in across the room' cords