In article 1N4_d.75394$Ze3.17749@attbi_s51,
David Merrill wrote:
Motor rated? How is that typically identified on the switch packaging? I
may have to ask the electrical department guy :-)

Not to "belabor the obvious", but it has a _HP_ rating on it, in addition
to the 'amps' rating(s).

Frequently there will be a load (Amps) rating at 120 VAC, a different (Amps)
rating for 240VAC, *and* a HP rating.

You don't exceed _either_ the HP rating, or the relevant Amps limit.

"Why" you ask? simple. motors have *large* inrush currents when starting
up. Leads to arcing, and pitting of contacts not designed to handle the load.
leads to premature switching device failure.



David Merrill

"Doug Miller" wrote in message
news
...snip
You may not be able to find one that's an exact form-and-fit replacement
for
your existing SPST switch, but actually, you shouldn't have any trouble at
all
finding a DPST switch at HD or Lowe's.