Voltage Readings and Dryer Outlets

How to Test a Dryer Circuit and Outlet – We just had brand new house built, the dryer breaker tripped now the dryer doesn’t work.

Dryer Outlet Voltage Readings

[ad#block] Electrical Question: We just had brand new house built, the dryer breaker tripped now the dryer doesn’t work.

The electrician came back out to look and he sees no problem with the breaker or outlet.
I have tested the outlet myself and ground to neutral is reading 120.
Everyone is telling me it should read nothing.
I called the electrician again and he said its fine.
I’m really confused because I’m not sure what is right or wrong.

Thanks

This electrical wiring question came from: Michelle, from Louisville, Kentucky

See more about Local Electrical Wiring in Kentucky

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Michelle

How to Test a Dryer Circuit and Outlet

It is correct that there should not be a reading of 120 volts between the neutral and the ground.
This is an abnormal condition and should be corrected before attempting to use the outlet.
A qualified electrical contractor will need to inspect the circuit and wiring and make the necessary corrections.

The Following will assist you with your Dryer Outlet

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.

Electrical Outlet Wiring

Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home

Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.

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 Outlets

Using Testers to Identify Electrical Problems

Testers to Help Solve Electrical Problems

Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring
Types of Electrical Testers

Using Electrical Testers

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

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