Last updated on August 14th, 2022 at 01:25 pm
The washing machine is known to absorb a lot of energy and can sometimes cause a break in the circuit if the correct connection is not made.
However, the washing machine does not require any special cable connections or plugs before functioning properly.
Many buildings contain junction boxes at one point or another. As a result, it becomes confusing if using a junction box with a washing machine is safe.
You can use a junction box for the washing machine. The box would reduce the risk of electric shock and damage to the wire connection. The junction box would also be useful if you plan to have many other outlets within the building.
Can We Use Junction Box for Washing Machine?
It is possible to use a junction box for a washing machine, especially if there are many other connections in the building.
This is because a junction box accommodates many connections and allows for many connections and cable sockets within a building.
The box protects cables and electrical connections from environmental conditions and against accidental contacts that lead to electric shock.
Can We Connect Washing Machine to Normal Socket?
You can plug your washing machine into a normal three-wire grounded outlet with circuit breaker protection.
In the event of an overload or short circuit in the electrical circuit, the circuit breaker interrupts the supply current entering the appliance.
The standard electrical power in each house is between 110 Volts and 120 Volts with an alternating current of 60 cycles. This current is sufficient for the maintenance of a washing machine.
However, an electric shock may occur if the washing machine outlet does not have a circuit breaker guard.
Also, you should always ensure that the washing machine is the only appliance connected to the circuit.
Which Socket Is Suitable for Washing Machine?
Most washing machine outlets are 120-volt outlets that can accommodate a standard three-pole appliance. However, some washing machines may require a 240 Volt outlet to function.
If your machine is compatible with a 240-volt socket, you must install a washing machine outlet for the same voltage level. The pins and plugs of a 120 Volt and a 240 Volt socket are different from each other.
Also, it is important to know that incorrect wiring can damage the washing machine, cause electric shocks or cause a fire.
Therefore, a licensed electrician must install the sockets according to the appliance’s requirements.
A 240V washing machine can have any plug configuration, so you need to find out what kind of plug your appliance has before installing a laundry receptacle outlet. The socket should be compatible with the plug.
A washing machine plug would have three poles, one of the poles prevents the washing machine from being turned off by grounding it in the event of a short circuit, and the other two poles are regular.
If the grounding pole is removed, excess electricity will be transmitted to the washing machine body and may cause electrocution when touching the washing machine.
Is It Safe to Use Extension Cord for Washing Machine?
Using an extension cord is safe for semi-automatic washing machines because they do not consume a lot of energy.
However, it is unsafe for fully automatic washing machines because extension cords cannot withstand their large energy consumption.
Additionally, many other dangers are associated with using extension cords to operate washing machines. Here are some of the dangers.
#1. Overheating
Extension cords produce low voltage because the wires are thin and longer than usual. The thinness and length of the wire increase its electrical resistance resulting in a voltage drop.
A lower voltage would result in a higher amperage; the higher the amperage, the more heat produced.
This overheating can cause the washing machine motor to burn and shorten its life. In addition, it reduces engine efficiency and can damage it over time.
#2. Danger of Fire
If your washing machine has more power than the extension cord it connects to, it could cause a fire.
The thin wires of the extension cords make it prone to failing and starting a fire if a higher wattage appliance is connected.
It is safer to plug your fully automatic washing machine into a grounded electrical outlet.
Although a semi-automatic washing machine may still function if plugged into an extension cord.
#3. Water Hazard
It is normal for water to splash everywhere around the laundry area, but it could be dangerous if it enters an extension cord in use.
It can cause electric shock, fatal injury, and death. You can use an outdoor or waterproof extension cord to prevent water hazards.
However, if you have no choice but to use an extension cord for your appliance, there are some guidelines to consider when choosing an extension cord.
This action would help ensure your safety and choose the best extension cord for your appliance. Here are the guidelines.
#4. Length
As stated above, a longer cord can be dangerous for the washing machine as it has a higher resistance to electricity.
Hence, using a short, heavy extension cable is a good idea. Reduces the rate of voltage drop that can affect your washing machine.
#5. Thickness
The smaller the wire thickness, the higher the amperage rate, and a high amperage can cause the washing machine to overheat.
Therefore, it is recommended to use an extension cable with thicker wires.
#6. Nominal Power
Always check the washer and extension cord specifications for their wattage ratings. If the cord’s rating is less than that of the washing machine, it may cause a fire.
The power rating of a top-loading washing machine is indicated on the label located behind the machine, while that of a front loader may be inside the door.
You can also check the manufacturer’s website to confirm.
#7. Plug
Using a grounded extension cord is best because some appliances have a three-prong grounded plug.
The third pole, the grounding pin, transfers the excess electricity to the ground in the event of an electronics malfunction, thus rendering it harmless.
Does Washing Machine Need Dedicated Circuit?
There is no need to install a dedicated circuit for your washing machine, but it would be better to put it in a laundry circuit dedicated to laundry appliances because of the dryer.
It is more suitable for your washer and dryer to have their dedicated circuit.
The circuit would prevent overloading and can minimize the risk of circuit breaker tripping. Tripping the circuit breaker can cause a fire and damage your appliances.
Also, the National Electric Code (NEC) states, “A laundry room must operate on a dedicated 20 Amp circuit and can successfully service a washer and gas dryer.”
The national electrical code further makes us understand that a dedicated 120 Volt electrical circuit can provide sufficient power to the washer and gas dryer.
In comparison, an electric dryer would need a personal 240 Volt circuit.
This laundry room circuit can contain more than one receptacle, but every laundry receptacle outlet must be located inside the laundry room.
If the distance between a sink and receptacle is about six feet or below, it must be protected by a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
Wire the laundry room circuit with three and a 12 gauge wire because it is connected to a 20 Amp breaker.
However, the washer does not require a GFI outlet unless the device’s outlet is located in a basement, laundry room, or within six feet of a sink.
This is because washing machines consume a lot of electricity and can cause overload if they don’t use a dedicated circuit.
But if you follow the national electrical code, your washing machine won’t need a dedicated laundry room circuit. As a result, your appliance would work properly, and there would be no accidents.
Conclusion
Washing machines do not present a risk if the national electrical code rule is observed when connecting the cables.
However, it is essential to understand how much electricity your machine works before plugging it into any outlet. Always contact an electrical professional to install any sockets, plugs, or cables.