Which Type and Rating of Electric Circuit for Safe Installation of an Electric Dryer?
Are you thinking about buying an electric dryer or do you already have one but need several answers to safely install it so that it works reliably?
This post is only intended as a guide to get you started to correctly and safely install your electric dryer.
Always consult a qualified electrician or the installation instructions of your electric dryer.
Note: Always consult the dryer’s user manual or consult a qualified electrician.
Which Electric Circuit to Use for an Electric Dryer?
The electric circuit you connect the dryer to depends on its rated current draw. Check the electric dryer’s amp draw and leave some headroom (amps) to minimize the likelihood of the circuit breaker tripping from overload.
For example, if the dryer’s current draw is 24 amps at 240V then connect it to a 240V/ 30 amp electric circuit at a minimum.
If it is lower, at say 15 amps at 110V, then use a 110V/15 amp rated circuit always leaving some headroom.
Should you use a Dedicated or Shared Circuit?
Use a dedicated electric circuit to minimize the risk of repeated tripping of the circuit breaker should the combined current draw of the total connected appliances exceed the rating of the circuit breaker.
In fact, if the circuit breaker keeps tripping as a first step, check if the dryer is connected to a dedicated or shared breaker and the dryer’s current rating as compared to the circuit current rating.
How Many amps a Domestic Electric Dryer Uses
How many amps an electric dryer draws can vary depending on the model and capacity of the dryer.
Some electric dryers for example have a rated current of 15 amps at 110V or 240V while others can have a larger rated current of 30 amps or larger. There is no one rated current draw.
Always consult the electrical specification section of the electric dryer user manual.
The manufacturer may also specify which amp breaker and electric circuit to use. If in doubt always consult a qualified electrician for guidance.
Should you Connect both the Washer and Dryer to the Same Circuit Outlet?
This largely depends on the combined current draw of both the washer and the electric circuit compared to the electric circuit rating.
You can connect both the washer and dryer on the same circuit if it is adequately sized or else use separate dedicated electric circuits in line with the section on Which Electric Circuit to Use for your Dryer?
Connecting an Electric Dryer to a Regular Outlet
Electric dryers require specialized 3 or 4-prong grounded wall receptacles rated 110V or 240V depending on the design to handle their large current draw.
Check the dryer’s user manual for the type of receptacle and power cord to use for your model of electric dryer.
Closing Thoughts
Always connect your electric dryer to a dedicated 3 or 4-prong grounded specialized wall receptacle.
Consult the electrical specifications section of the owner manual or a qualified electrician for which electric circuit to use and this can vary from one model to another.
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