What is the correct installation method for a new clothes dryer in an older home with a jumper between the neutral and ground terminals?

The correct method involves removing the jumper when installing a properly rated cord. This ensures that the electrical system complies with modern safety standards, separating ground and neutral connections to prevent potential shock hazards.

In homes built before the adoption of the 1996 NEC (National Electrical Code) standards, a common practice was to have a jumper between the neutral and ground terminals in a three-prong receptacle setup. However, the modern approach requires using a four-wire system with separate neutral and ground wires to minimize the risk of electrical hazards.

When installing a three-prong, three-wire cord, the jumper is often left in place because that configuration mirrors the original setup in older homes. However, in a configuration using a four-wire cord system, the jumper should be removed as this allows for the separation of the neutral and ground conductors, aligning with current code requirements.

This information emphasizes the importance of adaptation to contemporary electrical safety practices when dealing with older wiring systems. A four-wire connection is the preferred method, as it reduces the risk of shock and enhances the overall safety of the appliance installation.