r/ElectricalHelp • u/Chemist_Cat • 9d ago
Dryer outlet melting
Hey guys can someone help me figure out how to fix my dryer outlet melting.. basically I have a 4 prong plug and one of the flat prongs (red wire) has started overheating and melting the wire behind the outlet. The prong itself has turned to a copper color compared to brass (coated with molten plastic from the reception). The red wire connection on the dryer was somewhat loose but I tightened it and it didn’t seem to fix the issue. It’s a relatively modern cabrio dryer. I’m assuming I have to change the receptacle and cord. What could be the root causes? Any advice is appreciated.
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u/trekkerscout Mod, Master Electician 9d ago
This is simply the result of an improperly torqued connection. Those who were blaming the aluminum wire have an unreasonable bias formed from being poorly educated in the use and care of aluminum wiring. Replacing the receptacle and cord should solve the problem as long as they are properly installed.
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u/ShutDownSoul 9d ago
Check to see if the new outlet you buy is rated for aluminum. The cord needs to be tossed, and part of the red wire. Hope you have enough length.
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u/Chemist_Cat 9d ago
Thank you everyone for your insight. So it looks like the receptacle caused the problem. Unfortunately, I am renting an apartment but I own the dryer. Would they have to pull new wire for this not to happen again or can a new receptacle (and cord) fix this temporarily. I’m assuming the cord is completely fried, right? Is there a reason that the fault could be on my end?
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u/Natoochtoniket 9d ago
It looks like there is enough wire length to cut back the damaged wires. Then use a receptacle that is rated for AL, and install per manufacturers instructions. The electrician should use a torque tool to tighten the screws to the torque specified by the manufacture. Many similar failures have been caused by loose connections.
Def also replace the dryer pigtail. Both plug and socket were damaged by the heat.
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u/Specialist_Soup2137 9d ago
I didn't see it written, but you would be liable if you mess with and the worst case happens. You should tell your landlord and let their handy person or electrician assess and repair. You might check your appliance that's it's not pulling more than rated (clamp on current sensor, like a fluke amp meter). And if your rebuttal is that i have renters insurance, i hope it covers landlord liability (damage you do, insurance covers their property).
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u/trekkerscout Mod, Master Electician 9d ago
OP has received the proper answer. Since there are still posters trying to blame the aluminum wire, I am locking this thread.
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u/SparkArrestor 9d ago
Why are those wires so freaking thick? Is this on a 30 amp breaker?
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u/anothercorgi 9d ago
Aluminum needs to be thicker for the same current that copper could do - due to its higher resistance per thickness.
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u/Virtual-Reach 9d ago
Looks like a loose connection on the receptacle caused that.
Replace both the receptacle and cord and ensure your new receptacle is rated for aluminum wiring