How to Convert a 220V Line to 110V

How to Convert a 220V Line to 110V

Converting a 220V (240V) circuit to 110V (120V) requires replacing the double-pole breaker with a single-pole breaker and capping or removing one of the hot conductors. This work must be performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor in Ontario and requires an ESA permit. The conversion is often straightforward but depends on the wire gauge and the new circuit’s intended load. It cannot always be done — the existing wire gauge may not be appropriate, or the panel may not have a suitable breaker space.

What the Conversion Involves

• Remove the double-pole breaker and replace with a single-pole breaker of appropriate amperage
• Cap and insulate the unused hot conductor inside the panel and at the outlet end
• Replace the 240V outlet with a standard 120V outlet at the device end
• Verify the wire gauge — 12-gauge wire supports 20A at 120V, 10-gauge supports 30A at 120V
• The neutral conductor is already present in most 240V circuits and becomes the return path for the 120V circuit

When the Conversion Is Not Possible

Some older 240V circuits used two hot conductors and no neutral — these circuits cannot supply 120V without running a new cable with a neutral conductor. Circuits for electric dryers, ranges, or EV chargers often use all four conductors (two hots, neutral, and ground) and can be converted, but circuits for baseboard heaters, well pumps, or air conditioners may use only two hots and a ground with no neutral present.

EZSMART handles circuit modifications and conversions across Ontario with all required permits. Contact us if you need a 240V circuit repurposed for a different use.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp