Dryer circuit
Input
5,500 W · 240 V · continuousOutput
30 A breakerBreaker sizing starts with **load amps = Watts ÷ Volts**. For **continuous loads**, multiply by **1.25**, then pick the **next standard breaker** that meets or exceeds that value.
**Standard sizes:** 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60 A (and higher)
**Example — 5,500 W electric dryer at 240 V:**
5,500 ÷ 240 = **22.9 A**
22.9 × 1.25 = **28.6 A design**
Next standard breaker: **30 A**
Minimum wire: **10 AWG** copper (30 A ampacity)
Breaker rating must not exceed wire ampacity. This calculator pairs recommended wire with breaker size.
Converts watts to amps, applies continuous factor, selects next standard breaker and matching minimum copper wire.
Formula
Design amps = (Watts ÷ Volts) × 1.25 if continuous → next standard breaker ≥ design ampsUse nameplate watts for the largest load on the new circuit.
120 V for general branch; 240 V for dryer, range, and water heater.
Enable for dryers, ranges, and equipment that runs 3+ hours at full load.
Result shows standard breaker size and minimum matching copper wire gauge.
Input
5,500 W · 240 V · continuousOutput
30 A breakerInput
1,200 W · 120 VOutput
15 A breakerCommon real-world scenarios where this tool saves time.
5,500 W at 240 V continuous → 30 A breaker, 10 AWG.
1,200 W at 120 V non-continuous → 15 A breaker, 14 AWG.
8,000 W at 240 V → 40 A breaker, 8 AWG.
Step-by-step chains that connect related tools for common tasks.
| Breaker | Typical use | Min copper wire |
|---|---|---|
| 15 A | General 120 V outlets | 14 AWG |
| 20 A | Kitchen, bath, workshop | 12 AWG |
| 30 A | Dryer, small water heater | 10 AWG |
| 40 A | Range, large appliances | 8 AWG |
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Most residential dryers need a 30 A double-pole breaker on 10 AWG copper — confirm nameplate amps on your model.
No — breaker must protect wire ampacity. This calculator shows minimum wire for the recommended breaker.
General 120 V branch circuits use 15 A (14 AWG) or 20 A (12 AWG) breakers — match wire gauge to breaker.
At 240 V continuous load, 5,500 W draws ~22.9 A — use a 30 A breaker with 10 AWG copper minimum.
Yes — 20 A breakers require at least 12 AWG copper NM-B; 14 AWG is only rated for 15 A circuits.
Appliance watts and voltage are processed only in your browser — EverydayTools does not store circuit inputs.
Estimate only — not NEC certification or permit approval. Licensed electricians required for new circuits.
Part of Calculator Tools
More free tools for the same workflow.
Free circuit load calculator: sum appliance watts on one breaker → amps and load percentage. 80% guidance for continuous loads. Runs locally in your browser.
Free wire gauge calculator: load watts or amps → minimum copper AWG with continuous-load sizing. 60°C NM-B ampacity reference. Pair with breaker and voltage drop tools. Runs locally in your browser.
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Reviewed on 2026-03-01.