Log in

View Full Version : Installing new 240V circuit for wall heater


jameslrice
Jan 3, 2009, 01:44 PM
I had an electrician install all new circuits, outlets and recessed lighting for my basement finishing project. Just as I'm about to put up the drywall I considered that it might be worthwhile to add a wall heater before I close everything up. This morning I purchased a 3,000 watt model at HD.

In the interest of time I'd like to run the cable and install the breaker myself. From reading online, it looks like for less than 3,840 watts I should install a 20-amp double pole breaker, and run 12/2 with ground. Both the cables will be hot, with no neutral.. which is fine I presume?

The thing is I looked for the breaker for my box online and I notced the breaker that I think I need (based on the above) recommends #10-3 cable?

Here's the breaker I think I would need, am I missing something? Do I need a neutral to be code-compliant?

Product Information Double Pole breaker (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100066107&N=10000003+90043+503490+523)

Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!

stanfortyman
Jan 3, 2009, 02:13 PM
You are correct. You need 12/2, a neutral is not necessary unless the appliance requires it. Most 240v heaters do not.

The breaker will be a 2-pole 20, but it must be the correct one to fit you panel. Brand and style. An example would be: Square D, QO series; or Cutler-Hammer, BR series.