Machine switches

[John T Barker]

I am replacing a switch on my jointer but am not sure of what I am doing. My motor is 230 volt, one phase, 21.4/10.7 amp and 2HP. Do I have to match the amperage or is it a max rating? The switch voltage must match? 220 volt switches would not work? Would a 3hp switch be suitable?
As I look at the switches on Amazon I have to wonder what the quality difference is between the $20 switch and the $60 switch?

Thanks for any help.

[Mike Heidrick]

It is most likely rated at 21.4 at 110v and 10.7 at 220v. I 3hp rated 220v switch will work just fine. Many of the cheap switches from amazon are just labeled only at 50hz but they work fine. A teco contactor is only about $22 on fatorymation.com.

[Rod Sheridan]

Your switch will need to be HP rated, and marked accordingly.

You need a 240 volt switch, rated 2 HP or more, with at least a 10.7 ampere rating at 240 volts................Rod.

[Dave Cullen]

Voltage ratings are nominal line voltage. 220 and 230 are the same thing.