Installing a Dryer Circuit and Breaker
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How a Quad Electrical Circuit Breaker Could Be Used – In this case, the 2-pole may be replaced by a quad 30 amp circuit breaker which will provide the 240 volt circuit for the electric dryer. The circuit wiring configuration is critical and must be done correctly in order for both of the circuits to work correctly, and of course, the quad circuit breaker must be available for that particular make and model electrical panel. © By: Dave Rongey |
Options When Installing a Dryer Circuit and Breaker
Electrical Question: I have a 100 amp panel at home with no more room for circuit breakers. I got a new electric dryer and I wanted to get a sub panel to feed it.
I was going to remove a 30amp 2 pole breaker that’s feeding 3- 240V heaters and feed the heaters from the sub-panel as well. What size sub-panel could I use and wire sizes please.
This electrical question came from: Jose, a Student from Reading , Pennsylvania.
See more about Home Wiring for Pennsylvania
Additional Comments: Very useful website.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Jose.
Dryer Circuit Breaker Options
Panel circuit for a 30 amp 240 volt electric Clothes Dryer
Jose, save your money, you may not need to install a new sub-panel! In most cases, and with newer electrical service panels, there are quad circuit breaker that can be used to create two 2-pole 240 volt circuits in the same place as one 2-pole 240 volt circuits.
How a Quad Electrical Circuit Breaker Could Be Used
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
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.
Precaution: Identify the panel circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Installing additional circuit wiring should be done with a permit and be inspected.
In the case of this question, the 2-pole may be replaced by a quad 30 amp circuit breaker which will provide the 240 volt circuit for the electric dryer. The circuit wiring configuration is critical and must be done correctly in order for both of the circuits to work correctly, and of course, the quad circuit breaker must be available for that particular make and model electrical panel.
As always, I recommend that a qualified electrical contractor be called to perform any electrical panel work.
The Following resources will assist you with your electrical question:
House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
Electrical Circuit Wiring
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
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.
Wiring a Dryer for 3-Wire and 4-Wire Cords
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.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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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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