will this switch work for turning off CAMCO element?

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3016149#showFullReviews

After digging though the trays at Radio Shack, this is the closest match I could find. I need to connect both hot legs of 240V supply so that I can guarantee no current is flowing even when PID is OFF.

It's rated 10A @ 250V. Do I need one that rated 23A to cut power to a 5500W CAMCO element?

Yes, you need a higher rated switch, or a suitably rated double pole, single throw, normally open, definite purpose contactor with the switch controlling the coil. Home Depot has a 30a double pole switch that will work, that looks like a regular wall switch. http://www.homedepot.com/p/Leviton-...ch-White-R62-03032-2WS/100356941#.UppLr5Uo61s

twd000 said:

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3016149#showFullReviews

After digging though the trays at Radio Shack, this is the closest match I could find. I need to connect both hot legs of 240V supply so that I can guarantee no current is flowing even when PID is OFF.

It's rated 10A @ 250V. Do I need one that rated 23A to cut power to a 5500W CAMCO element?

Click to expand...

That 10 Amp switch definitely won't work. The contacts are rated to carry 10 Amps, not just break 10 Amps. I searched through their web site and none of their switches will work.

You could use the switch to turn a relay or contactor on & off. Maybe someone on the list can post a link to a 240 VAC contactor rated at 30+ Amps with a 240Volt coil?

Almost everyone uses contactors when using 240 volt circuits, because switches typically only go up to 20A. Look through P-J's diagrams to see how these are connected. This allows you to use switches designed for much lower current, which are way cheaper and going to be safer.

kenh said:

...
Maybe someone on the list can post a link to a 240 VAC contactor rated at 30+ Amps with a 240Volt coil?

Click to expand...

Here you go: Auber Insrument: - Contactor, 2 pole 40 A, 240V coil

jeffmeh said:

Yes, you need a higher rated switch, or a suitably rated double pole, single throw, normally open, definite purpose contactor with the switch controlling the coil. Home Depot has a 30a double pole switch that will work, that looks like a regular wall switch. http://www.homedepot.com/p/Leviton-...ch-White-R62-03032-2WS/100356941#.UppLr5Uo61s

Click to expand...

This switch is available at Home Depot. It's 2-pole. 30A. 240VAC. I've been using them for years with my 5500W elements. What else is there to say?