I was just given a dryer with 3 flat prongs but the wall socket is a 30a 125 with the 3 prong being L shaped how can I fix this problem

Me, I would go to my local hardware/appliance store and ask them if you could simply just replace the dryer cord with the one you need.
It's pretty simple, just three or four color-coded screws on the back of the dryer.
Last time I replaced mine, it cost only about $6 or $7...
Cheaper than a new dryer...

Don't think a plug change will do. If I read you correctly you have a 30 amp 125 volt outlet but the dryer is 120/240 volt, You will not get 240 V for the dryer and it won't heat up. You will need to have a 240 Volt line run to the dryer with a 3 blade outlet. Hopefully you have the capacity in the breaker / fuse box.

Are u sure a plug change will not do?

This is a house that I am renting. So should I consult the landlord or have him do the switch?

Yes to both,


So should I consult the landlord or have him do the switch?

The existing 30 amp 125 volt receptacle needs to be confirmed that is is only 120 volt, which it should be.

Could be something wacky that it is 240 volt, which it should not be.

Any work done in a rental must be done by a licensed electrician, not the landlord, or yourself.

If this existing outlet is near a dryer vent, it may have been used for a 120V dryer. The fact that it is a 30A outlet makes me believe that too. These are very small units that cost more than the bigger 120/240V ones. Your dryer cannot be used, the motor may turn but it will not dry. New wiring is most likely needed.