Expert: Master Bob - 11/10/2005

Question
Hey Bob, Quick Question I'm installing a 240 V gate operator, 1 HP, 10 amp o/L, the electrican brought 4 wires outside 2 black 14g, 1 white 8 gauge and 1 14 g ground.
the panel has a double fuse holder with 2 screw in fuses 15 amp each.  Is this OK and which wires should be terminated.
Thanks, Chris CDS

Answer
Hi Chris,

  Without having the specific electrical nameplate and connection detail for your 240 volt gate operator (is this a slide or swing gate..?)...it's hard to say what will need to be connected...each unit differs as to what it requires for a supply. Some are even battery operated with solar chargers..

 I'm not sure why the #8 white was run...unless it is to supply a neutral return for a 120 volt control panel or pad on the unit....or for an optional battery charger....but why the #8 gauge..?

 I'm assuming the electrician who ran the wires had the electrical specs for the unit....and ran the proper wires for the unit...but that's just an assumption. Based on the limited specs you supplied....yes - the 2 15 amp screw-in fuses on the double fuse block would meet the electrical protection requirements for the 1 HP load at 240 volts.

 But with 100's of different models available...there is no way I could tell you exactly how the wires terminate at the operator....would need specific brand/model numbers to determine that. Generally....the power connection section of the termination block is labeled Line 1, Line 2, Nuetral and ground....and the connection would then be straight forward (black to line 1, black to line 2, white to neutral and green to ground..)

 Please follow-up with more details on the make/model# of your operator...and I will do what I can to help you get this terminated. If you have a digital photo of the unit and wiring/wiring block...please feel free to send that for review to:

info@rkoelectric.com


Best Wishes,


Bob Osgood
Master Electrician

RKO ELECTRIC

www.rkoelectric.com