How to Install an Electrical Outlet for a Clothes Dryer
Connecting your clothes dryer to an outlet involves more then just plugging it in. You need to make sure that you have a 220 volt outlet available. Additionally, you need to make sure that the outlet you install matches the plug configuration of your dryer, as there are several variations on the market. Once your project is complete, you will be proud of your work and ready to get those clothes in the dryer. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Electrical line tester
- Electrical dryer outlet kit
- Screwdriver
- Wire cutters
- Wire strippers
- Pliers
- Utility knife
Instructions
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1
Locate the wiring that is to be used to connect the dryer outlet and make sure the power is turned off to this line at the circuit breaker. Using the electrical line tester, carefully touch one probe to the black wire of the line and the other to the red wire. No lights should light up, meaning the power is off and you are ready to connect the outlet.
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2
If needed, cut back about 3 inches of the out sheathing on the cable, with the knife. Cut to reveal the four wires to connect to the outlet. The wires will be black (hot), red (hot), white (neutral), bare/green (ground). Make sure not to cut too deeply into the sheathing and damage the wires inside. Peel the sheathing back and cut it off.
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3
Using the wire strippers, strip off about 1 inch of insulation off the four wires. If the ground wire has no insulation, you will not need to strip this wire.
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4
Using the pliers, make a half bend in the end of each wire. This will help wrap the wires around the screws later as we install them.
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5
Run the wire through the hole in the outlet plate. Line the plate up on the wall and mount it securely to the wall using the included screws in the kit. Since dryer outlets have their own electrical plate, you do not need to install an electrical box for the wiring.
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6
Looking at the plate/outlet as it is now mounted to the wall. Attach the black and red wires to the gold- or brass-colored screws using the included screw and screwdriver. Attach the white (neutral) wire to the silver screw and the green/bare wire to the green screw for the ground wire. Tighten each screw to a snug fit. Install the cover plate over the outlet, using the included screws and screwdriver.
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7
Turn the power back on at the main circuit breaker. Using the voltage line tester, insert one probe into the outlet where the black wire is connected and the other probe where the red wire is connected. The light will now light up and show that power is flowing to the outlet. Plug the dryer cord into the outlet.
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Tips & Warnings
Always consult a certified electrician before you begin any electrical project.
Make that sure any electrical work done meets the local building codes.
