How to Wire a Pigtail to a Whirlpool Dryer

It is easy to wire a pigtail on a dryer.

Most dryers use either a four-wire plug or a three-wire plug. The plug that has four wires is the newer of the two. The difference is that the four-wire plug uses two hot wires, plus a neutral and a ground wire. The three-wire configuration does not have a neutral wire. Dryers require 240-volts rated at thirty amps. The dryer pigtail looks very similar to a range cord. Be sure to identify which dryer receptacle you have first. The pigtail is not included with the dryer normally. The four-wire configuration is a result of the latest code changes.

Things You'll Need

• Voltmeter
• Screwdrivers
• Dryer pigtail
• Connector or strain relief
• 3/8" nut driver

Instructions

1. Locate the breaker for the dryer, or the main breaker. Turn off the power. Look at the plug and verify that it has three or four sockets. The number of sockets is the number of wires. Use a voltmeter to verify that the power is off at the receptacle.

2. Look at the back of the dryer. Locate the electrical access cover. Remove the screw(s) holding the cover to the dryer. Insert the pigtail wire into the connector/strain relief. If it is not included, you will need to purchase one.

3. Identify the terminal block. There will be three terminals in a row. Loosen the nuts on the terminals.

4. Connect the black and red wires to the outer two terminals. These are the hot wires. The white wire is the neutral. Connect it to the center terminal. The green wire is the ground. This will usually attach to a small screw in the back of the dryer. There could be a jumper wire or bonding strap attached to the center terminal and the ground screw. Remove this in the four-wire configuration.

5. Tighten the terminals holding each wire snugly. Make sure the wire has a small amount of slack between the terminal and the connector. Tighten the screws on the connector so it holds it snug.

6. Replace the electrical access cover. Plug in the receptacle. Turn on the power. Check operation of the dryer.

Tips & Warnings

• Always check the wiring diagram on the unit to make sure it is correct.

• The four-wire configuration is the safer method.

• If you are not comfortable working with electricity, have the work done by an electrician. Electricity can cause serious injury or death. Always double check to make sure the power is off before you start working with electrical wires.