Connecting a 3 wire power supply cord to dryer

13 years ago

Hi. We just bought a new dryer that came with a 4 wire power supply cord and need to replace with a 3 wire power supply cord for our older home. We were given the cord from the appliance dealer and the dryer install instructions explain and illustrate how to replace the cord.

The question we have is that the 3 wire cord is flat that splits into three separate cords where it attaches to the terminal box. The instructions say connect the two power cord outer conductors (red and black) to the 2 terminals labeled L and the remaining power cord conductor (white) to the terminal labeled N (which is in the middle of the terminals). There are no colors to the three cords on the 3 wire power supply cord.

Are we correct in assuming that the two outer cords must be the red and black and just attach them that way? We just don't want to blow up our brand new dryer by attaching incorrectly. Thanks for any advice. Can't wait to get this installed as we are now at 2 1/2 weeks without our washer and dryer! Kathy

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Comments (3)

jakvis
13 years ago
The 2 outer wires are L1 and L2 and the central wire is your neutral. However there is more to it than just hooking up the wires. You will also need to ground the neutral to the frame of the dryer. With out the dryer grounded you could be killed if an electrical part shorted out. This could potentially make the chassis live.

Because you have to ask the questions you asked in your post I would strongly suggest you have the power cord replaced by a service tech or electrician. When it comes to electricity and the safety of your family make sure the job is done right.
kdidl
Original Author
13 years ago
Jakvis, thank you for your post. That is exactly what we ended up doing. We consulted an electrician and it is now hooked up with ground wire in place. I appreciate your response to me and others who may be trying to figure out the same thing. Kathy
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dreamgarden
13 years ago
"Jakvis, thank you for your post. That is exactly what we ended up doing. We consulted an electrician and it is now hooked up with ground wire in place."

We might have to do this. Could you say how much the electrician charged for this? thanks!