Electrical How-To bolt logoElectrical How-To

Install a 240V Outlet (Dryer / Range / EV / Tools)

advanced
240 volt four-slot dryer and range receptacle next to a heavy cable
A 240V outlet for a dryer, range, EV charger, or shop tool.
Safety first

Turn off the breaker and verify power is off before working. If you are not comfortable, hire a licensed electrician.

Step-by-step
1

Confirm the circuit size matches the appliance and wire gauge.

2

Install a double-pole breaker in the panel.

3

Run the correct cable type (e.g., NM-B or conduit) to the outlet location.

4

Connect the two hot wires to the brass terminals, neutral to silver, and ground to green.

Diagram of a 240 volt receptacle terminal block with L1 and L2 hots, neutral, and ground
Red and black go to the two outer screws, white to the center, and green/bare to the ground screw.
5

Secure the outlet, install the cover, and turn the breaker on.

6

Test voltage hot-to-hot and each hot-to-ground/neutral.

Non-contact voltage tester held against an outlet slot to check for power
Touch a non-contact tester to the outlet or wires. No light or beep means the power is off.
Pro tip for you

240V work is dangerous; consider hiring a licensed electrician if you are unsure.

Tools
  • multimeter
  • screwdriver
  • wire stripper
  • torque screwdriver
Materials
  • 240V receptacle matching the appliance plug
  • proper gauge wire per breaker size
  • double-pole breaker