If you’re planning to install a three-wire dryer cord, you must know how to do it correctly. This type of cord is an older version that consists of three wires instead of four. While a four-wire cord has a dedicated ground wire, a three-wire cord does not have one. Installing a three-wire dryer cord requires knowledge of the wiring diagram and basic electrical wiring skills. This article will provide you with a detailed guide on how to wire a 3-wire dryer cord correctly.
Wiring diagram for a 3-wire dryer cord
Before we dive into the process of wiring a three-wire dryer cord, let’s first take a look at the wiring diagram. The diagram shows how the three wires should be connected to the dryer’s terminal block. The three wires are:
| Wire Color | Terminal |
|---|---|
| Black | Hot wire |
| White | Neutral wire |
| Green | Ground wire |
The black wire is the hot wire, and it should be connected to the terminal that’s marked “L1.” The white wire is the neutral wire and should be connected to the terminal that’s marked “N.” The green wire is the ground wire and should be connected to the terminal that’s marked “G.”
Tools and materials needed
Before you start the installation process, you need to gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need:
- A three-wire dryer cord
- A screwdriver
- Wire stripper
- Wire nuts
- A pair of pliers
Steps to wiring a 3-wire dryer cord
Step 1: Turn off the power supply
Before starting the installation process, turn off the power supply to the dryer. You can do this by unplugging the dryer or by shutting off the circuit breaker.
Step 2: Remove the old cord
Next, you need to remove the old cord. Use the screwdriver to loosen the terminal screws that hold the old cord in place. Once the screws are loose, pull out the old cord.
Step 3: Strip the wires
Strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the three wires in the new cord.
Step 4: Connect the wires to the terminal block
Connect the black wire to the terminal that’s marked “L1.” Use the screwdriver to tighten the screw that holds the wire in place. Connect the white wire to the terminal that’s marked “N.” Again, tighten the screw securely. Connect the green wire to the terminal that’s marked “G.”
Step 5: Secure the wires
Once all three wires are securely connected to the terminal block, use the wire nuts to secure them in place.
Step 6: Test the connection
Turn the power supply back on and test the connection to ensure that everything is working correctly.
FAQ
What should I do if I don’t have a ground wire?
If your home doesn’t have a grounding wire, you should hire a licensed electrician to install one. A grounding wire is essential in preventing electric shock and fire hazards.
Can I use a four-wire cord on a three-wire dryer?
It’s not recommended to use a four-wire cord on a three-wire dryer. Doing so may result in a fire hazard or damage to the dryer.
Can I install a three-wire dryer cord on a four-wire dryer?
It’s not recommended to install a three-wire dryer cord on a four-wire dryer. A four-wire dryer has a dedicated ground wire, which provides additional safety measures that a three-wire cord does not have.
Is it safe to install a three-wire dryer cord?
Yes, it’s safe to install a three-wire dryer cord as long as it’s done correctly. If you’re unsure about the process or lack electrical wiring knowledge, it’s recommended that you hire a licensed electrician to do the installation for you.
What’s the difference between a three-wire and a four-wire dryer?
The main difference between a three-wire and a four-wire dryer is the presence of a dedicated ground wire in a four-wire cord. A four-wire dryer is considered safer because it has more safety measures in place.
