Ok.. We are changing out out gas hot water heater to an electric one. What size wire would be better to run from the braker box to the hot water heater. (it is an outside braker box). water heater requires a 220 volt. And what size circuit braker would be better to use.
2007-02-20 16:34:32 · 7 answers · asked by mom of 2 beautiful girls 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
First a recommedation, get at least a 50 gallon heater, you'll need it with 2 kids.
Most water heaters are 4500 watts regardless of size, unless you buy a super powerful very expensive one. So you would need a 20 Amp breaker. Make sure you get the name of the manufacturer from your breaker box. Brands don't interchange.
The wire; if the run from the breaker to the heater is less than 75 ft #12/2 w Gnd will do nicely, longer run use #10/2 w Gnd.
Buy some cable staples to hold the wire neatly. Two ½" romex connectors to attach one end to the breaker box and the other to the heater. Don't forget some wirenuts (about 3) for the connections in the heater.
Then of course there is the plumbing part, but that's another question.
Good luck and happy to help.
2007-02-20 17:23:25 · answer #1 · answered by charley128 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
run 10-3 wire from the panel to the water heater. Use a 30 amp, 2 pole breaker. I'd also suggest getting a 50 gallon water heater, for the price difference it's worth it. If the wire is going to be exposed to the elements it should be in conduit.
2007-02-21 01:13:24 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
An electric water heater requires # 10 AWG. You will need 2 conductors and a ground. If you use romex, you need 10/2 with ground. This will require a 2 pole 30 amp circuit breaker.
I recommend hiring a licensed electrician for this work. Water and electricity do not mix. If there are any mistakes, you could have 120 or 240 volts flowing through your entire water system in your home.
If you need further assistance, please visit:
http://electricalblog.gilchrist-electric.com
2007-02-21 03:30:44 · answer #3 · answered by gilchristelectric 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I don't know but do know this - you'd better have a back up plan for when your electric goes out, and I hope you never want to take a long, hot shower, or more than one person get ready within an hour of one another. We have electric hot water heaters - one for our showers, and a separate one for dishwasher and washing machine. I cannot believe how quick we run out of hot water. Good luck!
2007-02-21 00:49:29 · answer #4 · answered by Deedee 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Gas is more economical than electricity but if you must change get a qualified professional to do it. Obviously you are not familiar with this type of job.
2007-02-21 02:04:13 · answer #5 · answered by Look on the bright side. 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why would you buy an electric water heater, when you have gas. Expensive!
2007-02-21 01:39:43 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Honey do yourself (and your 2 beautiful girls) a huge favor and call an electrician or plumber before you cause a catastrophy
2007-02-21 00:44:14 · answer #7 · answered by Jannie 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋