How do I connect a dryer with a four prong plug to a three prong socket for a Maytag electric dryer?
Is there a converter plug that goes from 4 prong to 3 prong outlet?
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1Can you post a photo of the inside of the outlet box for the dryer outlet?– ThreePhaseEelJan 6, 2019 at 3:55
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Can you turn the breaker off, take the front cover off the outlet (remove the screw between the prongs), and post a photo of the insides please?– ThreePhaseEelJan 6, 2019 at 19:42
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1 Answer
There are two solutions:
- Change the receptacle
The existing receptacle (NEMA 10-30) can be replaced with a new 4-wire receptacle (NEMA 14-30). The catch is that you need to add a ground wire to do this. If the existing wiring is in metal conduit then may be able to use that as a ground path. If the dryer receptacle is in the same room as your main breaker panel then it is easy enough to run a new cable. But if it is "elsewhere" then it may be a bit more complicated. You may be able to retrofit a ground wire to solve the problem.
- Change the plug
Most dryers can be adapted to a 3-wire cable/plug by replacing the cable/plug and connecting neutral and ground. However, this is not as safe as changing the receptacle and not recommended. There are certain fault scenarios where this could leave you vulnerable to dangerous voltage that would not happen with the new 4-wire receptacle.
For some more info, take a look at:
answered Jan 6, 2019 at 0:55
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1@isherwood I hear you. Find an exact duplicate. The one you linked to (which is one of the ones I linked to for more info.) is "3 prong dryer, 4 prong socket". This question is the reverse "4 prong dryer, 3 prong socket". The other one I linked is a bit more complicated because it was in a rental and 4-prong cord already removed. If you can find an exact duplicate (there very likely is one somewhere) then I'll agree with you. Jan 6, 2019 at 3:49