Thread: 10amp DIY for air compressor 15amp plug

Originally Posted by bacicat2000

Yeah, but if you are drawing more than 10amps, it will trip, so it won't work with a compressor. Mine draws 12 amps continuous. That adaptor is fine for caravans, etc where the current draw can be limited, but not when the appliance you are trying to run draws more than 10 amps.

While I can't condone doing what I have done, I understand what is happening and the potential issues. I know the cable is up to the task, and protected by a 16amp breaker back at the switchboard. My biggest issue would be the switch or contacts melting as these are only designed for 10 amps. I don't switch the compressor load through the switch on the GPO - I turn it on and off from the compressor, so I reduce the switch melting issue.

BUT - DON'T DO IT... pay me and I'll come over and fit a 15 amp GPO for it...

[quote=muddy;1739707]

Originally Posted by siegex

I agree with the adapter I read about this item in a thread earlier today.

Like you I also make sure I switch on from the compressor and not the wall as I am aware of the higher degree of fault if not done this way.


I also am aware that a double outlet has a higher amperage (20a) there fore I plug in to this instead of a single. Oh ye of little knowledge on electrical circuits. this is the reasoning homes burn down

And I'm not paying diddly squat lol only to rebuild a new home as insurance and electrical inspection love finding these to get themselves from paying out anything

To be truthful it is not worth doing for the cost of a 15a circuit.

Dude the break down is basic and you stated you do it yourself, point is

a. The lead won't get hot. It's a 15a lead.
b. wiring won't get hot. It's rated at 16A and protected by a circuit breaker.
c. socket outlet is rated to switch 10A loads so maybe don't switch on and off from gpo if I'm really paranoid. I use the switch on the compressor.

case closed
damn electricians, always trying to make a dollar out of scaremongering ; )

It's worth noting that the earth on a 240V AC system does not carry any current in normal operation, it is there to provide the least resistance in a fault situation, basically, it saves your life if everything else is in order. Although it would be most likely ok it is not recomended nor is it legal.