I have a air compressor that is wired for 120 volts, but can be converted to 240 volts. Is there a large benefit to converting it to the higher voltage? If so, is this something that I can do myself or do I need to hire an electrician to do this?

Thanks,
Mike.

 

I'd wire it 240 if possible..
It isn't rocket science.. on the unit it's fairly easy..[ just follow instructions/diagram]
I guess the main Q is whether you have a 240 outlet, and do you feel comfortable wiring one, if not?[ I do, and did,for my compressor and welder etc, but I don't recommend it, if you aren't sure how..]It isn't that hard, but obviously doing it wrong can be disastrous..

 

Don't do it yourself. Can be very dangerous if you aren't careful. My compressor is hooked to 240V, because it had to be. Nice two stage set-up.

 

I dont see a problem with doing it yourself, just read a little bit and make sure all the wires you are working with arnt "hot". I really dont see what could go wrong if you have a brain.

Get one of those testers and just test the wires before you touch them

 

Unless you are having problems it isnt really advantageous to do so. The compressor will draw less amperage at 240, so you could use smaller wiring, and have less voltage drop at the device. But as long as things are working fine it doesnt matter. Would free up a 110 volt circuit tho.