How to Hook Up a Dryer Power Outlet
When it is time to hook up an electric dryer, learn all you can about 220-volt appliances. Be specific in your research as it applies to your particular dryer. This will help you choose the correct wire and dryer outlet receptacle. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Variable-speed drill
- 1-inch paddle bit
- Phillips head screw tip
- 220-volt wire
- Utility knife
- Wire strippers
- Screwdriver
- 1½-inch drywall screws
Instructions
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1
Locate the place in the wall where you will put the dryer and drill a hole with a 1-inch paddle bit. It is best to do this next to a stud.
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2
Climb into the attic and locate the wall where the dryer power outlet will be installed. There will be two 2-by-4s (top plate) attached to each other that you'll need to drill a hole through with the 1-inch paddle bit.
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3
Feed the 220-volt wire through the hole in the top plate until there's enough to reach the hole drilled in the wall. Next, pull the wire across the rafters until you reach the wall with the electrical panel in it.
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4
Drill a hole at this location with the 1-inch paddle bit if necessary. Feed the wire through the hole and into the electrical panel. Climb out of the attic and go to the electrical panel.
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5
Remove the outer covering with a utility knife. Strip the insulation from the wires with the wire strippers and secure them to the breaker with a screwdriver according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not install the breaker onto the electrical panel yet.
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6
Return to the wall where the dryer power outlet will be installed and pull the wire through the hole. Strip the insulation from these wires with the wire strippers as you did on the other end and install them in the dryer power outlet according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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7
Secure the dryer power outlet to the stud next to the hole in the wall with the 1½-inch drywall screws. Place the cover on the outlet and return to the electrical panel and install the breaker.
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Tips & Warnings
Strip individual wires with a pair of wire strippers for precise cuts. Be sure to check how solid the outlet is secured to the stud before installing the dryer.
Do not leave power tools unattended in the presence of children. Never work with live 220-volt electricity.
