Electric Dryer Breaker & Wire Size
Free online tool • 2026 NEC Compliant
A standard residential electric clothes dryer operates at 240V and requires a dedicated 30-amp circuit with 10 AWG copper wire. NEC Article 220.54 allows a demand factor for multiple dryers. Use the breaker calculator below to confirm your specific dryer's circuit requirements.
Recommended Sizing
NEC Standard SizeBreaker Type: Standard Inverse-Time
NEC Reference Note: 125% multiplier applied for continuous loads per NEC 210.20(A).
How to Use This Calculator
Verify dryer specs
Most residential dryers: 5,000-6,000W at 240V.
Use standard sizing
Dryers use a standard 30A double-pole breaker and 10 AWG wire per established NEC practice.
Wire with 4-prong connection
Modern installations use 10-3 cable with a separate ground to modern NEMA 14-30 receptacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size breaker does a dryer need?
A standard residential electric clothes dryer requires a 30 amp double-pole 240V circuit breaker and 10 AWG copper wire (10-3 NM-B cable for 4-prong modern connections).
Can I use 12 gauge wire for a dryer?
No. 12 AWG copper wire is rated for 20 amps maximum per NEC 240.4(D). A dryer requires a 30 amp circuit, which requires 10 AWG copper wire minimum.
Specific Sizing Guides & Calculators
Electric Range Circuit Breaker & Wire Size
What size breaker does an electric range need? Standard ranges require a 40 amp or 50 amp double-pole breaker on a dedicated 240V circuit per NEC requirements.
Electric Water Heater Breaker & Wire Size
What size breaker does a water heater need? Standard 4500W electric water heaters require a 30A double-pole breaker with 10 AWG copper wire per NEC rules.
Standard Breaker Sizes NEC & Fuse Ratings
Standard breaker sizes per NEC 240.6(A). Comprehensive chart of standard circuit breaker amperage ratings from 15A to 6000A for residential & commercial.
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Calculate 3-phase circuit breaker and wire size. Supports 208V, 240V, and 480V three-phase systems for motors, heaters, and continuous commercial loads.
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