All Things Appliance

/Blog/Blog/All-Things-Appliance-/The-Difference-Between-3Prong-and-4Prong-Dryer-Setups-and-Why-the-4Prong-Setup-Was-Created/?link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

The difference between 3-prong and 4-prong dryer setups lies in safety. The older 3-prong setup combines the neutral and ground wires, increasing the risk of electrical shock or fire. In 1996, the National Electrical Code introduced the 4-prong setup, separating the neutral and ground wires to improve safety. Homes built after this mandate must use the 4-prong system, while older homes may still have 3-prong outlets. If installing a new dryer in a home with a 3-prong outlet, you can either upgrade the outlet to a 4-prong or use a 3-prong cord with proper grounding.