What breaker for a 240V dryer?
Most residential dryers use a 30 A double-pole breaker on 10 AWG copper.
Breaker 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.
Concise answers for common searches — definitions, steps, and comparisons.
Most residential dryers use a 30 A double-pole breaker on 10 AWG copper.
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.
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Reviewed on 2026-03-01.
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