How to Lower Surge Amps in a Table Saw Motor

Remove all electricity from the table saw. Never service any power tool while having the potential of it being turned on through electrical power.

Inspect the saw blade for built-up debris and sharpness to the cutting teeth. Remove the blade from the table saw following the manufacturer's instructions. Different brands of table saws will have various blade mounting methods.

Clean the blade by applying a small amount, 1 oz., of mineral spirits to the dirty blade. Scrub the blade in small circular patterns with the green scrubbing pad. The blade must have a bright metallic color to the surface. If the blade is dull from extensive use, replace it or have it professionally sharpened.

Check the drive belt tension between the motor and the saw blade arbor, if applicable. A loose drive belt decreases the power transfer between the motor and the blade. Generally the belt should have a 1/2-inch deflection when pushed with the index finger in the center of the drive belt. Consult the owner's manual for instructions on proper tensioning of the drive belt. Not all table saws have a drive belt; some are directly connected to the electric motor.

Verify the saw blade sits perpendicular and square to the table surface. Set the small metal square against the table saw surface and the cutting blade. The angle on the table saw blade adjustment knob must be at 90 degrees when adjusted to that position. Often the adjustment knob may be off. Check that angle with the metal square.

Ensure the ripping fence is parallel to the blade when cutting. Measure the distance from the rear of the blade to the ripping fence. The same distance, within 1/16 inch, must be held for the measurement between the front of the blade and the front portion of the ripping fence. If the measurements differ, the wood becomes pinched between the blade and fence causing a severe surge in amperage.

Consult the owner's manual of the table saw. Most table saw motors can be electrically wired for either 120 VAC or 240 VAC. If possible, follow the manufacturer's instructions and wire the motor for the higher voltage which will decrease the overall amperage draw.

Connect 120 VAC table saws with the correct type of extension cord, if applicable. Most 120 VAC table saw motors draw up to 15 amperes during the cutting process. A 12-gauge Underwriters Laboratory (U.L.) rated extension cord must be used. Extension cords smaller in size will not provide enough electrical power to the saw motor.

Increase the table saw size or cut thinner pieces of wood. In some cases, the saw may be too small for the cutting task.