Electric Range Circuit Breaker & Wire Size
Free online tool • 2026 NEC Compliant
Electric kitchen ranges and stoves are high-demand continuous loads. Most standard residential electric ranges require a dedicated 40 amp or 50 amp double-pole 240V circuit. Use the breaker calculator below to verify sizing for your specific range wattage, then compare against the NEC-compliant reference table on this page.
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
Check nameplate wattage
Find the kW rating on your range's data plate, typically 10–14 kW for standard ranges.
Calculate current draw
Divide watts by 240V to get amps (e.g., 12,000W ÷ 240V = 50A).
Select standard breaker
Round up to the next standard size from NEC Table 240.6(A): 40A or 50A.
Select wire size
Match wire to breaker: 40A = 8 AWG copper, 50A = 6 AWG copper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size breaker do I need for an electric stove?
Most standard electric stoves and ranges require a 40 amp or 50 amp double-pole circuit breaker on a dedicated 240V circuit. A 40A circuit uses 8 AWG copper wire; a 50A circuit uses 6 AWG copper wire. Check your range nameplate for the exact kW rating to determine which is required.
Can I use a 30 amp breaker for an electric range?
No. Standard residential electric ranges draw between 7.5 kW and 14 kW, requiring 40 amp to 50 amp service at 240V. A 30 amp breaker is insufficient and would trip immediately or become a fire hazard. A 30 amp circuit is used for electric dryers and water heaters, not ranges.
What wire size do I need for a 50 amp electric range?
A 50 amp range circuit requires minimum 6 AWG copper wire (THWN-2 or NM-B). Use a 6-3 cable for a 4-wire connection (hot, hot, neutral, ground) to modern 4-prong range receptacles.
Specific Sizing Guides & Calculators
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.
Electric Dryer Breaker & Wire Size
Standard electric dryers require a 30 amp double-pole breaker with 10 AWG copper wire on a 240V circuit. Learn how to size your dryer circuit correctly per NEC.
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.
3-Phase Circuit Breaker & Wire Size Calculator
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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