Household dryers need a lot of power — in fact, most need a full 240V current that’s only available through specialized outlets. Older homes typically deliver this current through a 3-prong dryer outlet, while newer homes use the 4-prong dryer outlet.
We’ll explain the differences between a 3-prong vs. a 4-prong dryer outlet and how upgrading your dryer outlet can be beneficial. We’ll also explore some situations where you may want to upgrade your outlets, including purchasing a new dryer.
3-Prong Dryer Outlets
3-prong dryer outlets are most common in homes built before 1996 in Denver, Colorado. These outlets have three slots: one ground slot and two live slots. The ground wire acts as both the neutral and grounding wire, while each live slot delivers 120V of power.
4-Prong Dryer Outlets
In 1996, building codes changed to require 4-prong dryer outlets. These have four slots: one ground slot, two 120V live slots, and one neutral slot. Adding the neutral slot returns unused power through the neutral wire, making the outlet safer by reducing the risk of electric shock.
Key Differences Between 3-Prong and 4-Prong Outlets
The main differences between 4-prong vs. 3-prong dryer outlets are the number of slots and the safety rating:
- Number of slots and wires: 3-prong outlets have only three wires, two live and one ground/neutral. 4-prong outlets have the same two live wires, but the addition of a separate neutral and ground wire for a total of four wires.
- Safety: A dryer outlet is 240 volts, so safety is essential when dealing with such a high current. 4-prong dryer outlets are safer than 3-prong outlets because the separate neutral wire reduces the risk of electric shock.
Upgrading to a 4-Prong Outlet
If you’ve purchased a new dryer with a 4-prong cord, you’ll want to upgrade to a 4-prong outlet. Many homeowners also choose to upgrade outlets as a general safety choice or when selling a home, as 4-prong outlets tend to be viewed more favorably. If your current 3-prong outlet is failing and you’re considering electrical repair, this can also be a good opportunity to upgrade.
Dryer outlet upgrades are a job for the pros since they require changing the wires that deliver high voltage in your home. Our pros at High 5 provide expert electrical installation services, including dryer outlet upgrades, so you can enjoy the safety and efficiency of modern 4-prong dryer outlets.
Considerations When Installing a New Dryer
Whether you’re installing a new dryer in an older home or trying to use an older appliance in a new home can influence whether you need to change your dryer cord or outlet.
New dryers in a home with 3-prong outlets
If you’re adding a new dryer and your home is currently equipped with 3-prong outlets, the best option is to upgrade the outlets. Newer dryers automatically come with a 4-prong cord. Updating the outlets to match the new dryer cord is the safest choice and can also help increase your home’s overall value.
Adding a dryer to a new home
If you’re building a new home or adding an addition to your current home, modern building codes require that you install 4-prong outlets. Even if you have an older dryer with a 3-prong cord, codes no longer allow the installation of 3-prong outlets. However, this doesn’t mean you always have to buy a new dryer — it’s possible to convert the cord on your dryer to replace an old 3-prong cord with a new 4-prong cord to match your outlets.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Upgrading to a 4-Prong Outlet
Explore the pros and cons of upgrading your dryer outlets to decide if a 4-prong outlet is right for your home.
Advantages
Here are some advantages:
- Safety: Thanks to the addition of a separate neutral wire, 4-prong outlets are safer than 3-prong outlets. Having safer outlets is a major advantage, particularly for homes with pets and children.
- Appliance compatibility: If you expect to purchase new appliances in the next few years, they’ll likely come with 4-prong plugs. Upgrading your outlets makes compatibility simple.
- Home value: 3-prong outlets are more dated, and some home buyers may consider them unsafe or inconvenient. Upgrading may increase the value of your home.
Disadvantages
These are the disadvantages:
- Initial cost: Like any home upgrade, changing your outlets comes with an initial cost. However, this investment is generally considered worthwhile regarding safety, convenience, and home value.
- Older appliances: If you have older appliances, upgrading to new outlets may mean changing your appliance cords. This is only a minor disadvantage, as changing cords is a relatively straightforward and inexpensive process many homeowners can do at home.
Having Problems With an Electrical Outlet? Contact the Team of Electricians at High 5
From inspections and maintenance to outlet upgrades, we provide a wide array of services to the greater Denver area. Whether you’re dealing with a faulty electrical outlet or looking for a safety upgrade, our team at High 5 delivers friendly and efficient service so you can get your dryer up and running.
We pride ourselves on great customer service, expert installation and repairs, and caring about our community. As a local, family-run business, we make sure everyone we connect with has a positive experience with their plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical. Contact us today to book your next appointment, and we’ll deliver professional electric services with our signature High 5 quality.
