Electrical – Washer and Dryer on one 20amp breaker

electrical

We just moved into a home built in 1998. The previous owners had a standard washing machine and looks like were using an electric dryer.

We have chosen to go with a gas dryer instead. There was a gas line there already so it made for an easy connection. My question is on the electrical part.

Right now the washer is on a 20amp circuit with terminates with a single 20amp outlet. The new washer states it needs 10amps. The dryer states it needs 13 amps. Can I turn the single outlet into a double 20amp outlet? Is it okay to have both the dryer and washer on the same outlet/breaker?

Best Answer

You can definitely install a duplex outlet in the place of the 20 amp outlet. As for it not tripping a breaker; you can try and see. It should not be dangerous if wired properly with a functioning breaker and #12 wire with properly tightened connections.

If the breaker trips, you know you need to get some additional copper to the laundry area. It probably will not trip though.