Wiring a 220 volt electrical outlet for a dryer is a simple task if you have existing 220 volt supply wires in the wall coming from the breaker box. You need a 220 volt outlet with matching pin configuration to that of your dryer's plug, a screwdriver, a wire cutter or stripper and some wall screws. The entire project should take no more than 15 minutes.
Remove the outlet cover
Using a screwdriver, remove the screw on the front of the outlet. The faceplate then easily pops off, providing internal access for wiring.
Prepare the supply wires
Before handling the supply wires in the wall, be sure the power is turned off at the breaker box. If necessary, trim and strip each wire to fit the new outlet box.
Connect wires to the terminals
A 220 volt system can have three or four wires. Two of the wires are hot: both black, or one red and one black. Connect the two hot wires to the two side terminals in the outlet. They are sometimes labelled "x" and "y." If you have three supply wires in the wall, there is a ground wire, usually bare copper or green, in addition to the two hot wires. Connect the ground wire to the round terminal labeled "GND." A four-wire configuration includes a white neutral wire as well. If wiring to an outlet with three terminals, attach the white wire to the same terminal with the ground wire. If wiring to a four-terminal outlet, connect the white wire to the L-shaped terminal.
Fasten the outlet to the wall
Use wall screws to attach the outlet to the wall through the provided holes. Replace the outlet cover, and fasten it with the previously removed screw. Restore power at the breaker box.
