Wiring – Got a used Electric oven – not sure what wire and breaker to use

circuit breakerovenwiring

We just got a used electric oven. We had propane, but no longer have access to propane. Currently there is only a standard wall outlet behind the oven.

I realize I need to run a new wire, etc., but am over my head as far as what type of wire, what type of breaker, etc.

The metal panel inside the oven door says:

3 wire 120/208 – 240 volts – 60 Hz AC ONLY

KILOWATTS 208 VOLTS

KILOWATTS 240 VOLTS

WHIRLPOOL

MODEL RE374PXDN 0

I have a double-30 breaker open in the box. Can I use that, or should I get something bigger?

Is the "3 wire 120/208" the description of the wire I need?

I tried looking it up by the model number, but it doesn't appear to exist. Any help greatly appreciatedoven

Best Answer

You'll need:

  • NEMA 14-50 receptacle.
  • 40 ampere double pole breaker
  • Four 8 AWG copper conductors, or four 6 AWG aluminum conductors (Hot, Hot, Neutral, Ground).

It's common for builders to use a 50 ampere breaker and larger conductors, to make sure the circuit can handle any range the owner's might use. But if you're installing the circuit to support a particular device, you may be able to use a smaller circuit.

It's common to use aluminum conductors for range circuits, because it's a bit cheaper when you start using larger conductors. Type SE (service entrance) cables are common for range circuits, as it's often easier to pull a cable than individual conductors.

In layman's terms. Go to the electrical supply shop, or hardware store. Tell them what you're doing, and ask for:

  • A four prong range plug.
  • A four wire range cord.
  • 8/3 with ground NM (nonmetallic) cable (copper).
  • A double pole 40 amp breaker.
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