Wells, Sump Pumps and Septic Sewage Systems - Wiring a On/Off Switch

I have a 1/2HP, 230V, 2Wire submersible well pump and I want to hook up an Of/Off switch outside between the pump and the house. What type of switch should I use and how do I wire it? I am in the process of running the wire to the house now...Any help would be appreciated, thanks...steveOh

Depends on how much money you want to spend. There are large 240VAC switches and small ones. The large ones cost $25-50 and have big handles and boxes. The small ones cost $15, look like wall switches and fit inside a wall switch box.

Both will do what you want.

Go to the hardware store or Big Box Store and ask. If you are going to put it outside, then make sure you get a box that is rated to be outside.

A heat pump service disconnect works great. They are 2 pole, outdoor rated, and usually cost less than $10. I use them all the time. As far as wiring, it's as basic as it gets...to lines in and two loads out, wire nut the grounds.

[QUOTE=VAWellGuy;1617308]A heat pump service disconnect works great. They are 2 pole, outdoor rated, and usually cost less than $10. I use them all the time. As far as wiring, it's as basic as it gets...to lines in and two loads out, wire nut the grounds.[/QUOTE

Sounds like that will work. Do you have a link to show me what you are talking about?

60 Amp Nonfused A/C Disconnect Switch - DPU222RP (http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/300/27/27abb498-ae2b-41c3-b779-be0daf024a87_300.jpg)

Available at any good hardware store.

60AMP? for a 1/2HP pump? I don't think I can get those around here for as cheap as you cam.

Here is a picture of one that fits in a wall switch box.
Types of Electrical Switches in the Home - Double Pole Switch (http://homerepair.about.com/od/electricalrepair/ss/switch_types_3.htm)

The major differences from a light switch is 1. higher amperage (usually 20) and 2. double pole.

They can be put in an outdoor enclosure.

60AMP? for a 1/2HP pump? I don't think I can get those around here for as cheap as you cam.

Here is a picture of one that fits in a wall switch box.
Types of Electrical Switches in the Home - Double Pole Switch (http://homerepair.about.com/od/electricalrepair/ss/switch_types_3.htm)

The major differences from a light switch is 1. higher amperage (usually 20) and 2. double pole.

They can be put in an outdoor enclosure.

Yes, that's the cheapest way out, and a 1/2 hp running on 220 V. would only draw around 4-5 amps.

Thanks to all for the help. I got it up and running.
steveOh