cost to tap into 220v?

We are about to get a new washer and dryer. The old dryer is gas. We want to get an electic dryer this time. It appears that we have a 220 line running the length of our basement (appears so... I can't tell for sure??). If it is, in fact, a 220 line, it passes directly over the dryer position.

Any thoughts on what it should cost to drop a line and receptacle down from the ceiling (about 4-5 feet would suffice).

I plan to contact an electrical contractor, as I don't feel like messing with "high voltage".

Any input would be very appreciated.

If you have insight as to how, specifically, I could tell if it is a 220 line, that would be helpful too).

Thanks !

 

You need to run a new wire from the panel for the new dryer. More than likely it is not suited for a new dryer by having only 3 wires and likely it already goes somewhere to do something.

 

As sberry said, you need a new circuit. Unlike 120-volt circuits, 240-volt circuits are designed and installed for only one purpose each -- so you can almost never tap an existing circuit. But a 240-volt circuit is no more difficult to install than a 120-volt circuit.

 

OK, Thanks for the replies. I am not familiar with how this is done, so your info is quite helpful.
So, what if the dryer will be approx 30 feet from the box. What do you think the cost should be? (Ballpark.) I know there are probably lots of variables- but if it was a simple case of just running the line-- up two feet, over 30, down 5... 37 feet plus the "plug-ins"....

$$$ ???

 

As I have found in the past trying to get other board members to post prices and cost is very difficult and seems to be frowned upon by many of the boards I frequent.

The reasoning is that prices can vary from $100 in smallsville to $1000 in rich man's land.

Your best bet is to get 3 bids and you'll get an idea of what the going rate is in your area. or if someone on the board lives nearby you and is familiar with costs in your area.

and lastly.... a link I stumbled upon while surfing who knows when

http://www.homeinspectorlocator.com/...20-%20Upgrades

 

Sounds like good advice. Thanks.

 

I am not sure of you skill level, but as was said above 240 lines are not all that different in the labor involved, only the design and purpose. Assuming that you some electrical knowledge and enough 10-3 wire and the new plug you should be able to knock it out in a 1-2 hours if you really take you time.

My suggestion is to do it on a saturday afternoon and cut the power to the whole box when you are ready snap in the new bridged breakers, run the wire (remembering to drill the holes in the joists before you cut the power, if you are doing this) wire up the plug (5 mins.) staple the wire as you pull it (10 mins.) get the wire to the box and cut enough so you have room to work. Kill the panel, drop in the new breakers, punch the knock outs. Connect the ground to bar, look where all the other copper wires are going, then white to bar look where all those are going, then red and black to breakers. Put cover back on breaker panel, throw on the power and turn on the run, if it doesn't trip and you followed the directions of the plug box. You're in business.

If this sounds like more than you and your internet connection want to handle, then call an electric guy shell out a 200-300 bucks and just enjoy the fruits of their labor.

 

Homerluvsme is right.

I was able to wire up my dryer in about 3 hours. The majority of the time was spent snaking the wire up to the second floor. The actual wiring at the receptacle and breaker box took no more than 15mins. If your on the first floor than it should be very easy. Let us know what you end up doing!

 

Well, I'm thinking about "going for it". Can any of you point me to an online "how to" with photos, diagrams, etc?

I could post digital photos of our electrical box, or anything else that would help someone determine what my particular set-up looks like it will need.

I'm going to do some searches for how-to's as well, but if anyone knows of a good one, that would be GREAT.

Thanks for the encouragement.

 

here is the link. You must use the 4 wire for a new install and if it comes with the cord already on that part is done.
http://www.homewiringandmore.com/switchoutlet/dryer/dryer.html