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Basic Electrical Question

06:16PM | 10/09/04

Member Since: 08/25/04
18 lifetime posts

Basic Electrical Question

I have an outlet that is 110. I have a washer that is 120V and 10 amp. and a gas dryer that is 120V and 6 amp.

I don't know what the circuit is (15...?) I don't think I can run both of them at the same time off the same receptacle but can I run these machines safely at all since the outlet is 110, but the machines are 120V? If so, does each machine need it's own receptacle, or can I just operate them by not running them at the same time (from same receptacle)?

Please advise. Thanks.

D10

joed

06:52PM | 10/09/04

Member Since: 09/17/02
527 lifetime posts

It is safe to run your appliances on that voltage. 110 and 120 are essentially the same thing. Normal line voltage varies from 110 to 130 votls. 115-120 is normal. Unless the circuit is a 20 amp I don't think you can run them both at the same time.

Darlene10

06:58PM | 10/09/04

Member Since: 08/25/04
18 lifetime posts

Thank you for this very clearly explained reply. Not trying to be dumber than a bag of rocks--Question-- how do I tell how many amps the circuit is?

Tom O

05:37AM | 10/10/04

Member Since: 09/17/02
487 lifetime posts

Find the breaker that controls that receptacle, the size is usually marked on the end of the handle.

Tom

Darlene10

05:57PM | 10/10/04

Member Since: 08/25/04
18 lifetime posts

Thank you very much.