240 Volt Wiring for an Electric Dryer
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How to Wire the Electric Dryer Circuit Wiring: Dedicated Electric Circuit for a Dryer, Relocating an Electric Dryer to Another Location, 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cords. © By: Dave Rongey |
Wire a Dryer Outlet and Dryer Cord
Guide to Wiring for an Electric Dryer
Electrical Question: We have a GE Electric dryer (Model- DBLR333EEEWW) says inside door 120/240Volt 60hz and then under that 120/208V 60hz. It has the NEMA 10-30R 30AMP power cord already attached. I also purchased the three prong power outlet to install that fits this cord.
- We are planning to take this dryer to be used in a country where the electrical system is 220 volt 50hz.
- So the question is can we just install the three prong outlet into the 220 volt wall? I was told a while back that the dryer uses split current, one voltage to power heating element and another voltage to power fan or motor? Not sure if I am remembering correctly.
- What is the wiring detail of the 3 prong outlet exactly? What current or voltage wires go where?
- Could you also elaborate on the 30 amp double pole breaker, what exactly is it, where is it installed and what does it do? I did look at your wiring diagram for 220 volt outlets.
We will be installing this ourselves, if it is even possible, so any advice you can give will greatly appreciated.
Thanks much Dave!
This electrical wiring question came from: Sal, from Scottsdale, Arizona
Additional Comments: What a site you have! Its wonderful you are here to help us with your electrical expertise. I am going to share your site with everyone. Thanks for being here.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Sal.
How to Wire an Electric Dryer Circuit and Dryer Cord
Preparation
- Application: Wiring a 240volt electric dryer.
- Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrician.
- Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, electric drill, auger bits and extension cord.
- Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and install electrical circuit wiring.
- Notice: Installing an additional dryer circuit should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
- Dedicated Electric Circuit for a Dryer
The circuit wiring for an electric dryer consists of 3 insulated wires, two hots, a dedicated neutral and a ground wire. - Depending on the age of the dryer and the type of cord the neutral wire may or may not be connected, this depends on weather there will be a 3-wire or 4-wire receptacle for the dryer cord.
- The 2-pole circuit breaker provides two circuits consisting of 120 volts each, however when the voltage is tested from these two circuits the result will be 220 to 240 volts.
- Testing each individual circuit to ground or the neutral the reading will be 110 to 120 volts. The electric heating elements of the dryer require 240 volts and the timer and control circuit typically operate on 120 volts.
- The specific voltage and power requirements will be clearly identified on the label which is typically found on the door jam and may be read when the door is open.
- Each individual electric component including the electric motor should have the voltage specifically identified, however all of these components are pre-wired internally, so the dryer cord is the only main connection that needs to be installed.
- Ground Fault Protection
Ground Fault protection is required for all receptacle outlets that are installed in a laundry room. This includes 240 volt or 250 volt 30 amp electric clothes dryer receptacle outlets. - GFCI ground fault protection may be supplied by a GFCI circuit breaker.
- Relocating an Electric Dryer to Another Location
Moving an Electric Dryer to Another Country with 50hz or 60hz Power - Unless the electric dryer specifically states that it is approved to operate in the country it is being moved to and the electrical voltage and hertz or cycles is compatible then I would highly recommend selling the dryer before you leave and purchase one in the country you will be moving to.
- Incorrect voltage or hertz will cause the dryer electrical components to overheat and burn out. If the brand name for the dryer is not commonly found in the country you will have a hard time getting a service technician.
- Some voltage or power converters may be available however you are still taking a risk of burning out an electric component prematurely and then you will require dryer repair service.
See More about Wiring an Electric Dryer
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3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cords
- See an electric dryer installation with a typical 220 Volt electric power cord wiring system. You may find yourself with either a 3-wire or 4-wire electric dryer, or a 3-wire or 4-wire outlet. Lets look a how the electric dryer is wired and what to do if your cord does not match the plug.
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Wiring 220 Volt Electrical Outlet
- Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how electrical outlets for the home are wired.
Home Electrical Circuit Breakers
Home Electrical Circuit Breakers
A guide to home electrical circuit breakers and how they work to protect your electrical wiring. When properly installed, your home electrical wiring is protected by a circuit protection device.
Electrical Wire for the Home
Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.
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