How to Test a Dryer's Terminal Block With a Voltmeter

Dryers, like many other large appliances, have a three-core power cable and should be connected to a three-prong plug. The terminal block within the dryer links the wires from the power cord to the internal wiring. It is not only the point at which the wires are connected but also the point at which you can check that the power cord is working correctly. By attaching a voltmeter across the appropriate terminals within the block you can confirm that power is reaching the appliance and establish the exact voltage with which it is being supplied.

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the dryer and move it into a position that gives you good access to the terminal block.
- 2
  Identify the three power cord wires that enter the terminal block; black or red is the power wire, the white wire is neutral, and the green or bare wire is ground.
- 3
  Switch on the voltmeter and, unless it is an auto ranging model, set it to read the highest range available. For example, if the meter offers a choice of 10, 100, 200 and 500 volts, select 500 volts.
- 4
  Reconnect the dryer to the power supply. Touch either one of the meter probes to the terminal holding the black wire and, at the same time, touch the other probe to the terminal holding the white wire. Observe the reading on the voltmeter. If the display shows zero volts, wriggle both probes to ensure that they make good contact with the terminals and check the reading. A continued zero reading indicates that the terminal block is not receiving power. Any other reading indicates the voltage being transmitted through the block.

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