NEMA Power Inputs

[i8humans]

I need flanged inlets for my control panel. I'm currently using 2x 2000W 120V elements with no control panel. I'd like to use an inlet that would still work if I move and have 240V available.

Can I use L6-30 3 wire inlets and connect to my 120V source? I'm planning on using L6-30 outlets/plugs for my elements.

Should I consider either L10-30 or L14-30 instead?

 

[Zepth]

I see no reason why it wouldn't work. The L6-30 should carry the 120v happily and easily without any grief. Granted if you had them wired for 120v then plugged directly into 240v you'd likely have a bad day as a best case scenario. I'd even make sure to label them as 120v input only just in case.

 

[Malticulous]

Go L14 so you have both neutral and ground. I'd go CS 6364 or 14-50.

 

[Brettomomyces]

If you doing end up going bigger or going 240v route, having the L14-30 will be safer because of a hard wired ground. You can then wire the power in to come from a 4 plug dryer or stove outlet.

You said inlets. You just mean power in, correct?

 

[i8humans]

Thanks all for the good advice. I will use the L14-30 inlets for their flexibility. These are being used for power in only.

I think the L6-30 would work fine wired as hot/neutral/ground for the 120V hookup and hot/hot/ground for 240V. In both cases there is a dedicated ground wire.

With that said, I like the 4 wire setup on the L14 so I have an option to use 240 and 120 in the same box and also the same inlet.