Different Kinds Of Dryer Plugs

In 1996 dryer manufacturers stopped producing models with the 3 prong and started focusing on the 4 prong.

Different kinds of dryer plugs.

Electric dryer plugs in days gone by. An electric dryer on the other hand heats the air with electric heating elements and runs on 240 volt current which requires a much different outlet receptacle and a special heavy duty appliance cord with a unique plug. The most common electrical outlets are 15 amp duplex receptacles 15 amp outlets are designed to accept standard plugs for most small appliances and lamps. Electric dryers generally draw about 30 amps at a voltage of 220 volts although large.

Get the amp rating off the outlet and pick up a replacement with that rating and the same configuration and number of holes. This was due in part to a change in the national electric code which stated it must contain a grounding element. Before the national electric code was updated to require a separate ground wire in. The cord comes with built in ring terminals for easier installation and an included strain relief clamp.

Use the nema plug chart below to identify a configuration by pin array or designation. Types of dryer plugs the standard electric dryer plug. Nema straight blade plugs connectors and receptacles carry unique pin positions based upon amperage and voltage. Most homeowners have run into a problem with trying to hook a 3 prong dryer cord up to a 4 prong outlet or vice versa at one point or another.

Fact is that the new electrical code calls for a 4 wire plug which has 2 hots 1 neutral and 1 ground wire this code is for new homes and remodeled projects. Of course used for a clothes dryer. The safest type of dryer outlet used today is the 4 prong. If you want to replace an outlet simply turn off the power to the outlet and remove it.

The cord prong is 10 30p nema plug configuration and is compatible with most major electric dryers brands. Unfortunately few people understand the difference. Whether you move into a new home that has a different outlet or purchase a new dryer with a different power cord this is an all too common scenario. The plug is designed with an angle to keep the cord close to the wall avoiding kinking and preventing damage.

The 3 wire plug has 2 hots and 1 ground wires this configuration bonds the neutral and ground wires together inside the dryer at the cord connection area.