I was looking at air compressors and was wondering what the difference is between "single stage & dual stage"? Is single stage 120v and dual stage 240v?

When doing the wiring for it would the dual stage get connected like an electric dryer or range?

I think the stages has to do with pressure not voltage.I'm sure someone will enlighten us about that.As far as wiring requirement that will depend on the unit somewhat.Allow me to explain.People think that the reason for the circuit breaker is to protect the attached device(A/C,refrig,TV ,aircompressor etc.)The fact is it is to protect the wire that supplies the device.Most homegarage type compressors I have seen are usually 240v/15 or 20 amp. 20 amp =#12 wire =20a breaker.If the run to the panel is too long a voltage drop occurs.Then you may need to run #10 =30amp.This is not a complex as it appears,just read the info plate on the compressor to determine your needs.

As I understand it, single stage means 1 piston compressor, dual stage means two piston. A dual stage will fill the tank faster than a single stage.

Peter

My mistake, I meant phase. The specs say its a "single phase 240v".

Standard house power is single phase.Normal commercial/industrial is three phase.There is no two phase.

The connection at the dryer should work, the 220 power is what you want.

It will act like it wants to operate on 110 but will end up in bad news.

And, licking your fingers to test the wires is a BAD idea.

That will put the Z in Zap.

B:stupid:

O.K. Brian, You've got me rollingROFL . That was a good one!:classic:

Thanks, I'm here all night, remember to tip your waitresses.

B

I believe the term two stage means that the pressure is increased in two stages, and apparently this allows a greater volume of air at higher pressures. As you've probably found out, two stage is much more expensive than single stage, will require wiring the garage for 220 if not already wired, and two stage is probably unnecessary for the average home mechanic. Nice to have though if you can afford it.

Go down to your local hardware store and get Wiring Simplified and you will get the information you will need to do any wiring for 220 or 110

I would suggest a visit to your public library and save that money for your project car.

Or,

You could just wire a BUNCH of AAA batteries...

Still going............................ .....................

I'm ona roll here.

B