Splice Electric Dryer Circuit Wires
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Can I splice the electrical circuit wires for my dryer circuit? The process of How to Splice and Extend an Electric Dryer Circuit. © By: Dave Rongey |
Electric Dryer Circuit
Electrical Project #1: Can I splice the electrical circuit wires for my dryer circuit?
- I have a dryer, side by side currently that I am moving to stackable to gain some space in our laundry room.
- The wiring is currently behind the dryer, and I need to move the 220v outlet maybe 16-20 inches so I can again plug in my dryer.
- The breaker box is at least 150ft from the dryer. It is OK to splice the 10-3 wire to add an additional 1-2 ft to move the 220v outlet.
- I know it’s probably not to code, but just looking to get my dryer back operational.
This electrical wiring question came from Andy, in Littletown, Colorado.
Electrical Project #2: Can I splice a 220 volt dryer line in a junction box?
- Can I splice together a 220 line for a dryer at a junction box halfway before I reach the receptacle? Splicing together the correct wires with wire nuts at a junction box? Will this be safe?
This electrical wiring question came from Doug in Sperryville, Virginia.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring questions.
Splice Electric Dryer Circuit Wires
- Application: Splice an Electric Dryer Circuit.
- Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Certified Electrician or Electrical Contractor.
- Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester.
- Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience and ability to work with tools.
- Precaution: Identify the dryer circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the dryer circuit wiring.
- Important: Electric wiring and circuit components should be new electrical materials of the same voltage and amperage rating.
- Notice: Electrical Wiring modifications should be done according to local and national electrical codes and installing new or replacement electrical parts or equipment may require to have a permit and be inspected.
How to Splice and Extend an Electric Dryer Circuit
The following is an example of the process to extend a dryer circuit by using the existing outlet box as a junction box to extend the circuit wiring to a new location.
- Turn Off the Electrical Power for the Dryer Circuit
Identify the existing dryer circuit at the panel supplying the power and turn it off.
Place a notice or tag at the panel to indicate that work is being done on the circuit.
Use a voltage tester at the dryer outlet to ensure that the circuit power has been turned off. - Locate and Install the New Dryer Outlet Box
Determine the desired location for the new dryer outlet to be used for the new stackable dryer unit.
Consult the installation manual for detailed information about the new dryer outlet and cord. Attention should be given to the new dryer and the position and length of the cord to be sure the new outlet is located properly and is accessible when the new dryer is installed. - Install the New Length of Dryer Circuit Cable
The new dryer circuit cable should be exactly the same as the existing dryer cable, being sure that the wire type and wire gauge matches the existing circuit wires.
Install the additional length of dryer cable from the new dryer outlet to the existing dryer outlet.
Protect and secure the new circuit cable and wiring according to the project application.
Convert the Existing Dryer Outlet into a Junction Box
- Remove the cover from the dryer outlet.
- Unscrew and remove the dryer outlet.
- Notice the location and connection of each wire of the dryer outlet, and any designation as indicated or labeled on the dryer outlet.
- Disconnect the wires leading to the outlet.
- Note: The splice box must remain in a location that will be accessible.
Grounding the Splice Box
- If the junction box is metallic then it will need to be bonded to the circuit ground wires using an approved ground lug or terminal which is fastened to the junction box enclosure, and the ground wires must be all bonded together using a wire connector.
Splicing the Dryer Circuit Wires
- Identify the individual dryer circuit wires and strip back the insulation about one inch.
- Splice the pairs of circuit wires together and install a wire connector to each pair of wires.
Cover the Splice Box
- Once the wires have been spliced together fold the wires back into the junction box.
- Install a blank cover over the junction box.
Install the New Dryer Outlet
- Strip back the insulation about one inch from each wire.
- Attach each wire to the new dryer outlet as the original installation, and as labeled on the dryer outlet.
- Install the dryer outlet to the outlet box.
- Install the outlet cover for the dryer outlet.
Test the Dryer Outlet
- Be sure all work is completed and the covers are installed and securely in place.
- Restore the circuit power to the dryer outlet.
- Test the dryer outlet for 240 volts, proper polarity, and ground connection.
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