How to Wire a 220v Dryer Socket

A 220v dryer needs an equally powerful electrical outlet. The dryer cannot operate on the standard 120v, as it requires a lot of power to run.  The electrical outlet for the 220v dryer socket has four wires, unlike the standard 120v outlets. Before wiring the socket, you should have an equally powerful circuit breaker to support the heavy-duty dryer circuit. Wiring the 220v dryer socket requires the same precision as all other sockets to ensure your safety.

Step 1 - Switch Off the Power

Turn the power off at the circuit breaker of the line you will be working on. Go to the electric outlet box and use the voltage line tester to confirm that the power is indeed off. Insert the tester into the right and left sides of the outlets simultaneously. If it lights up, the power is not off, and you should ensure that it is completely off to avoid an electric shock.

Step 2 - Prepare for Wiring

Check whether the socket will fit into the existing junction box on your wall. Hold the 220v dryer socket against the wall opening. If the socket is bigger than the electrical box, you will have to drill the wall out to fit the socket. On the other hand, if the box is bigger, you will have to drywall the extra opening.

Step 3 - Connect the Wires

At the electrical box, use the wire stripper to expose the wires to about 1/2 inch. The socket has terminals on which to connect the wires from the junction box. Loosen the screws on the socket in preparation for attaching the wires. Connect the black wire to the gold or brass screw on the socket. Screw the wire firmly with your screwdriver.

Then attach the white wire to the silver screw of the socket. Screw it on tightly.

The red wire, which is a hot wire like the black wire, should connect to a similar gold or brass screw.

Finally, connect the ground wire, which is often uninsulated or green insulated, to the green screw.

Step 4 - Connect the Socket

After securing the wires tightly, push them into the junction box and fit the socket into place. Secure the socket onto the electrical box with the screws and screwdriver. Ensure that you tighten the screws appropriately. Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. Once again, use the voltage line tester on your newly installed socket and test for power. Insert the tester probes, one on the right side and the other on the left. Make sure the tester lights up to indicate that your power is on.