110V vs. 220V: Power Requirements for Shop Equipment

2 min read · By Truman Tools & Equipment

Quick answer

Most two-post lifts, shop compressors and heavy machines need 220V. Many garage four-post lifts, storage lifts and smaller tire machines run on standard 110V. Check before you buy so your equipment is ready to run the day it arrives.

In this guide

It's one of the most common surprises when new equipment arrives: the plug doesn't match the outlet. Checking power requirements before you buy saves you from a lift sitting in the crate while you wait for an electrician.

110V vs. 220V, in plain terms

110V (also called 115V or 120V) is the standard household outlet. 220V (also called 208V or 230V) is the higher-voltage circuit used for dryers, ranges and most shop equipment. Equipment designed for 220V can't run on a standard outlet, and plugging 110V equipment into 220V can damage it.

Single phase vs. three phase

Homes and most small shops have single-phase power. Larger commercial buildings often have three-phase power, which runs big motors more efficiently. Most equipment we sell runs on single phase, and some models, like certain Forward Lift lifts and the Atlas AF10 compressor, are available in a three-phase version. If you're not sure what your building has, an electrician can tell you in minutes.

What our equipment needs

Equipment	Typical power
Most two-post lifts	220V single phase, 30 amp breaker recommended
Commercial four-post lifts	220V single phase, 30 amp breaker
Garage four-post lifts like the Atlas Garage PRO8000 and PRO9000	110V, 30 amp breaker required
Direct Lift Pro Park four-post lifts	115V
Powerline storage lifts	Standard 110V outlet (lifts twice as fast on 220V)
Car and light truck tire changers and balancers	Many run on 110V; check each product
Truck tire changers like the Bright LC557	220V single phase, no plug included
Shop air compressors (5 HP)	220V, 30 amp breaker, #10 wire
Shop air compressors (7.5 HP)	220V, 40 amp breaker, #8 wire
Spray wash cabinets	220V single phase, 30 amp breaker

The exact requirement is in the specs on every product page. Go by that for the model you're buying.

Don't forget air

Many lifts also need compressed air. Commercial four-post lifts like the Atlas 412 and 414 use air-operated locks and need an outside air supply of about 85 to 115 PSI. Air/hydraulic bridge jacks and most tire changers need shop air too. If you don't have a compressor yet, read What Size Air Compressor Do You Need?

Tips before your equipment arrives

Check the plug situation. Some equipment ships without a plug and needs to be wired by an electrician.
Plan the location. Put the outlet where the power unit or machine will actually sit.
Use the right breaker and wire size. Undersized wiring can trip breakers or overheat.
Hire a licensed electrician for any new 220V circuit. It's usually a quick job and keeps everything up to code.

Our take

Before you order, write down what power you have where the equipment will go. If you're setting up a home garage, a 110V four-post like the Atlas Garage PRO8000 or a Direct Lift Pro Park can save you from running a new circuit. For a working shop, plan on 220V for lifts, compressors and heavy machines, and have your electrician set it up before delivery day.

Not sure what you need?

Call us at 765-544-3838 and tell us what power you have available. We'll point you to equipment that fits, or tell you exactly what to ask your electrician for.

Also see Concrete Requirements for a Car Lift.