dryer breaker size

Dryer Breaker Size

Many electric dryers use a 30 amp, 240 volt circuit with 10 AWG copper, while gas dryers often use a smaller 120 volt circuit.

Inputs

Results

Immediate estimate

Planning dryer breaker30 AMany electric dryers use a 30 A, 240 V circuit.

Common copper conductor10 AWG copper

Dryer typeElectric

Run length50 ft

Voltage dropNot estimated

Acknowledge the limitations before relying on this as a planning lookup.

Electrical sizing depends on the adopted NEC edition, terminal temperature ratings, insulation type, conductor material, conduit fill, derating, grounding, equipment labels, and local inspection requirements.

Diagram

Dryer circuit

Dryer type and circuit rating return a common breaker and copper conductor lookup.

Dryer type
Circuit rating
Run length

How this calculator works

Choose dryer type, circuit rating, and run length for a cautious residential dryer circuit lookup.

Lookup model

The calculator maps the selected dryer circuit rating to a common copper conductor size.

Length flag

Longer runs are flagged for voltage-drop review.

Label caution

The dryer nameplate, receptacle type, existing cable, and code requirements must be verified.

Lookupselected dryer circuit rating mapped to common copper conductor size

Length flagflag one-way runs over 100 ft for voltage-drop review

Assumptions

Scope: Common residential dryer circuit planning lookup.
Not checked: Appliance nameplate, receptacle type, neutral/grounding rules, existing cable type, and local amendments.

Worked examples

Typical electric dryer

Common 30 A electric dryer circuit.

30 APlanning dryer breaker

Gas dryer controls

Gas dryers usually use a smaller 120 V circuit for controls and motor.

20 APlanning dryer breaker

FAQ

What breaker does an electric dryer usually need?

A 30 amp breaker is common for many residential electric dryers, but always verify the nameplate.

Does a gas dryer need a 30 amp breaker?

Usually no. Gas dryers commonly use a smaller 120 volt circuit for controls and motor.

Can I reuse an old dryer circuit?

Only after checking conductor type, grounding, receptacle configuration, breaker, and current code requirements.

Sources and review

National Electrical Code, NFPA. Accessed 2026-07-16.

Reviewed 2026-07-20. Planning estimates only; confirm project-specific requirements.