Wiring for future 8x10 enlarger

[Robert Oliver]

I am building my new darkroom and am wondering about voltage requirements for the 8x10 enlargers.

Should I be wiring for 220 volts if I plan on installing an 8x10 or 10x10 enlarger? I plan on using cold light with the enlarger.

I notice 220v requirements for some of these enlargers and I am not sure if it's for the chassis or for the dichroic head / cooling fan.

[climbabout]

Run a 3 wire cable over there (preferably a 12/3) and then you are covered either way.
Tim

[ic-racer]

For the Durst L1840 the 220V requirement is for the motor that raises and lowers the head. It does not need the high-amp socket and breaker that a washer or oven needs. It uses a 20A 220V socket and breaker which is not much different from a standard 120V socket (the prongs are different) and its pretty easy to wire up from a standard USA circuit breaker box.

[Drew Wiley]

Nice to have 220 if you ever decide to use one of the more powerful colorheads.
Not necessary for any cold light I can think of. Glad I ran 220 ato the darkrooms.

[jp]

While you're at it, install a switch and some ceiling outlets for the safelight(s).

I went so far as to use dpdt relays so that I can't turn my overhead lights on when the safelight is on (and vice versa) to avoid accidentally turning the lights on when it's supposed to be dark.