When your air compressor blows breakers or fuses - tips from a reader

by Benjamin Ranck
(Frankenmuth, MI)

Here is what I have found. I have had the same issue and there are a couple things to consider here to stop this from occuring. First, try to plug the compressor directly into the outlet. By using extension cords, especially smaller gage cords, the initial motor surge isn't enough to start the motor. Once it is going, lower amps is required but there is an initial surge that needs to be "satisfied" before it can start and run. If the compressor is directly connected to the outlet and it still trips the breaker, try to find a 110/120v outlet that is attached to a 20 amp breaker in the panel. I have a few 20 amp breakers for "heavier" circuits (such as garage, pole barn, etc...). Larger electrical motors require a HUGE burst of energy to start. That is why sometimes when an electrical appliance with a motor causes the lights to flicker before starting.

If the wiring to the electrical outlet is 12 gage wire and is connected to a 15 amp breaker, a 20 amp breaker could be installed to replace the 15 amp breaker. I would not do this if the outlet is a 14 gage wire. Not sure if it could safely support the additional amp increase.

So, in summary, the motor needs a surge at the beginning. Extension cords have voltage drops which will take away from the ability to start/surge and a 15 amp breaker sometimes cannot supply enough energy to start the motor. A 20 amp breaker could be installed if the wiring is 12 guage to the outlet.

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Thanks, Benjamin.

Bill