Electrical Wire Size for a 240 Volt Dryer
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Can you use 12 gauge wire for a new electric dryer? Circuit Wire Size for an Electric Clothes Dryer: 220 Volt Dryer, 3-wire or 4-wire receptacle outlet. |
Electric Dryer Wire Size
[ad#block]Electrical Question: Can you use 12 gauge wire for a new electric dryer?
Someone told us that #12 wire could be used. We thought that 10 gauge wire is the right size for an electric dryer.
This electrical question came from: Tina, from Dunkirk, New York.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Tina.
The Correct Wire Size for an Electric Dryer Circuit
Application: 220 Volt or 240 Volt Dryer Cord and Outlet Wiring.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate – Best if wired by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and a Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and the available access to the dryer cord electrical connection box.
Precaution: Identify the dryer circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the dryer cord wiring.
Circuit Wire Size for an Electric Clothes Dryer
- If the new electric dryer requires a 240volt 30amp circuit then the electrical circuit wiring requires a #10 gauge copper wire not a #12 gauge.
- 10 gauge copper wire with THHN or THWN insulation is rated for 30 amps.
- 12 gauge copper wire with THHN or THWN insulation is rated for 20 amps.
More about Wiring an Electric Dryer
Wiring a Dryer for 3-Wire and 4-Wire Cords
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3-Wire and 4-Wire Configurations for Clothes Dryers
- 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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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.
The following may also be helpful for you:
Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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I am not going to say what everyone else has already said, but I do want to comment on your knowledge of the topic. You are truly well-informed.
Thank you Dallas Electricians,
I appreciate your kind comments about electrical wire size for a 220 volt dryer.
It’s always good to hear helpful and encouraging comments from fellow electricians.
Dave