Understanding Electrical Requirements for Dishwasher Power Cords
The dishwasher we use in our home is a heavy-duty household appliance that has an excellent service life before requiring replacement. Most homeowners install the machine during the construction of their house to ensure that it is hard-wired to the home’s electric circuitry. This can be a problem when the machine has broken down and you have to replace the device.
At times, homeowners may decide to move the appliance to a different location, which can become an issue if the machine was previously hard-wired. In such situations, you may need a power cord for the dishwasher to operate properly. Homeowners must understand some basic concepts of electrical circuits before placing an order. If you are doing this for the first time, it is best to get help from a dishwasher service technician.
Buying the Right Power Cord
Getting the right power cord is not simple, as you have to consider several technical aspects. You must have a basic understanding of the essential elements that make up the circuit of your home. This will give you an idea of how electricity affects the appliance and the power cord.
Volts
This term describes the electrical “pressure” utilized by the system to send current into an appliance. The 120v and 240v systems are the two most common voltage systems used in the United States. A dishwasher typically operates on a standard 120v circuit. When buying a new power cord, make sure you get one that suits your appliance’s specific voltage requirements.
Amps
Amps (Amperes) measure the volume of current that flows to the dishwasher from the power source. The new power cord must have a rating equal to or higher than the electronic circuit it is connected to. Most large appliances use up to 60 amps, while a dishwasher circuit usually requires a 15 or 20-amp rating. Check the amps required by your machine before purchasing a cord.
Watts
This is the term used to describe the total power required by the appliance to operate. You can find the wattage by multiplying the amps by the voltage. For example, a dishwasher using 10 amps on a 120v circuit requires 1,200 watts of power. A standard dishwasher usually needs around 1,200 to 1,500 watts to operate efficiently.
Circuit Breakers
The circuit breaker is a safety device that protects the electrical circuit from shorts and overloads. If the breaker detects a sudden increase in current, it will trip to cut off the power supply. This protects the appliance from damage and prevents electrical fires. The circuit breaker is also vital for safety when you are attempting dishwasher repair or service without professional help.
Correct Plug Type
Most heavy-duty household appliances use a 15-amp three-prong cord. The third, center prong is the ground plug, which prevents electric shock if a wire becomes loose or short-circuits inside the machine. Another aspect to consider is the space between the dishwasher and the wall; some units may need a “flat” or 90-degree plug to ensure the unit fits flush against the cabinetry.
Selecting the Right Wire Gauge
The wire gauge designates the capacity of the wire to carry current. Interestingly, as the gauge number decreases, the wire thickness and its capacity to carry current increase. For instance, a 12-gauge wire is thicker and carries more current than a 16-gauge wire.
Ideally, you should get a 12-gauge or 14-gauge wire for your dishwasher. If you use a wire that is too thin (higher gauge) for your appliance, it will overheat and could potentially cause a fire. If you are unsure which gauge is correct, it is best to consult a professional dishwasher repairman.
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