In article , "Paul Gilbert" wrote:
I just purchased a 3/4 HP vacuum pump and would like to hard wire it up to
220V power. The shock came when the big box stores don't sell double pole
single throw (DPST) switches

Yes, they do. You're just not looking in the right place. Really.

I can always leave it at 120V, but there must be a better way! Anyone know
where I can get a 220V switch for $15?

Lowe's, Home Depot, Menards, Ace Hardware, Tru-Value Hardware, Do-It-Best
Hardware... you get the idea, I'm sure.

Example:
http://www.lowes.
com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=70625-334-1245-1V-SP-L

Now I am a chemist, not an
electrician. I assume that I need a double pole switch. Is that correct?

That is correct.