Buying the Right Power Cord
Getting the right power cord is not easily, as you have to consider several aspects before placing an order. You must have a basic understanding of the essential elements that make up the circuit of your home. This will give you an idea of how electricity affects the appliance and power cord.
Volts
This term is used to describe the voltage utilized by the electrical system to send current into an appliance that is connected to the power system. The 120v and 240v systems are the two most common voltage systems used in the United States. The system will produce more current when it is supplied with high voltage current. So, when buying a new power cord, make sure you get one that suits your appliance.
Amps
Amps decide the amount of current that flows to the dishwasher from the power source. The new power cord must have a rating equal to or higher than the electronic circuit it is connected to. Most large appliances use up to 60 amps while small appliances may use up to 25 amps. So, check the amps required by the machine before getting a power cord.
Watts
This is the term used to describe the power required by the appliance to operate at nominal capacity. The watts needed by the machine can be easily found by multiplying the amps with the voltage used. For example, the appliance that uses a 240v circuit with 30 amps will require 7.200 watts of power. Usually, a dishwasher will need only 1,200 watts of power to operate efficiently.
Breakers
The circuit breaker is an electric device that protects the electrical circuit from shorts and overloads. If the circuit breaker detects a sudden increase in voltage, the breaker will trip to cut-off the power supply to the circuits. This will protect the appliance from damage caused due to a sudden spike in voltage. The circuit breaker is necessary to protect the home wiring from sudden electric spikes that cause electrical damage, which may result in fires and overheating. The circuit breaker is also important when you are attempting dishwasher repair or service, without getting professional help.
Correct Plug Type
Most heavy-duty household appliances, such as geysers and dishwashers, use 15-amps three-prong cord. The center prong is the ground plug which prevents electric shock by a device that has short-circuited or loose wire inside it. The cord you buy for your dishwasher must have three prongs. Another aspect you must consider when purchasing a power cord is the space between the dishwasher and the wall. Some units may need a 90-degree plug that sits flat on the wall to ensure that your dishwasher fits into place. If you are unable to decide which wire is best for your machine, it is best to get help from dishwasher technician.
Selecting the Right Wire Gauge
Another important aspect you must consider is the gauge of the wire. The wire gauge designates the amps and voltage the wire is capable of conveying the appliance from the circuit. For instance, the maximum amp that a 16-gauge wire is capable of transmitting is 22. On the other hand, a 12-guage wire is capable of conveying up to 41 amps. Ideally, you should get a 12-gauge wire for your dishwasher and geyser. Usually, the diameter of the wire will increase when the wire gauge decreases. Wires that are used for large appliances use low gauge wires for increased electrical capacity. If you use that is too small for your appliance, it will overheat and burn. At times, it may not be easy to decide which wire gauge is best for a residential setting. In such situations, it is best to get help from dishwasher repairman.
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