Thread: Dryer breaker size

I had a house today that had a 20 amp breaker installed for the 240 dryer outlet. 10 awg wires supplied the currrent. I know 30 amp is the max you want on a dryer outlet but is there a minimum. Is this an issue or should I just recommend a 30 amp breaker so that the dryer does not trip inconveniently. Thanks.

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Not sure what the nameplate called for, but the normal dryer is wired for 30 amps @ 240, #10 CU.

If there was no dryer installed I would say that it needs a 30 amp breaker installed to match the receptacle and wire size. If there is a dryer installed I would look at the data plate and if it draws 16 amps or more I would call for a 30 amp breaker and if the amperage is less than 16 amps I would stick with the 20 amp breaker. No reason not to until the dryer is replaced with one that needs a 30 amp breaker.

I agree Jim. I just didn't want to call this out and then have a sparky tell me that it can be up to a 30 amp but there is nothing wrong with the 20 amp.

I don't normally pull out the dryer to check the plate. This is newer maytag model that is front loading but not the HE series. The breaker was in place when current owner bought property 6 years ago. Buyers are bringing their own units. I think I'll just recommend that they view their dryer plate and install 30 amp if necessary. Thanks.

A.D. - I was under the impression that 30 amp was maximum for dryer overcurrent protection. What type of dryer takes up to a 60 amp?

Whether there is an existing dryer or not you have no idea if it's staying with the properly of if the buyers have there own appliances. Either way I would state that the wiring for dryer is rated at 30 amps, however the circuit breaker is rated at only 20 amps. Most standard dryers require 30 amp circuits. The circuit breaker may need replaced.

That's like saying a range circuit has to be on a 50 amp breaker just because it has a 50 amp receptacle installed when some ranges call for a 40 amp breaker. If there is a piece of equipment installed the wiring is for THAT piece of equipment and needs to meet the requirements for THAT piece of equipment. Once that piece or equipment is removed then you can wire to meet a standard that may or not be correct once something is installed later. I would go with what Jody says.

the nec 220.54 requires a 5000 watt load minimum (30 amp) or the nameplate rating whichever is greater.

Originally Posted by brian schmitt

the nec 220.54 requires a 5000 watt load minimum (30 amp) or the nameplate rating whichever is greater.

Section III of Article 220, of which 220.54 is part of, deal with feeder and service load calculations.

Article 210 would be the correct Article to site for sizing the branch circuit for a dryer.

Originally Posted by Jody Humbert

I don't normally pull out the dryer to check the plate. This is newer maytag model that is front loading but not the HE series. The breaker was in place when current owner bought property 6 years ago. Buyers are bringing their own units. I think I'll just recommend that they view their dryer plate and install 30 amp if necessary. Thanks.

Pulling out the dryer not necessary! All Maytag dryers (and most other mfg's) of the last decade or two, the electrical requirements are on the plate which is behind the door (with the Model & S/N) - simply OPEN the dryer door - and look at the area which was formerly BEHIND the formerly closed door.I know of no Maytag electric dryer (free standing) which can be placed on less than a 30 amp supply. Most even of the stackable variety also required a minimum 30 amp supply. Gas fired a 20 amp 120 supply was sufficient.
IIRC all but a particular combo/stackable unit has had min. 1/3 hp, the exception a 0.2 hp (1/5 hp) model.

Originally Posted by Jim Port

Section III of Article 220, of which 220.54 is part of, deal with feeder and service load calculations.

Article 210 would be the correct Article to site for sizing the branch circuit for a dryer.

could you be more specific?

Originally Posted by brian schmitt

the nec 220.54 requires a 5000 watt load minimum (30 amp) or the nameplate rating whichever is greater.

That's what I said....glad you agree..

Originally Posted by James Duffin

That's what I said....glad you agree..

i gree with everything except for the part about the 20 amp breaker