By Relocation.com Staff
A new range requires a dedicated 240 Volt circuit for the range and oven. This involves installing and attaching the correct size cable to your home's electrical panel. It's best to hire an electrician to handle this part of the job.
An electric range must have a dedicated 40-50 Amp circuit.
You will also need enough 6/3 cable to run form the service panel to the new receptacle with three plug prong holes and a ground prong hole.
A double pole, 40 or 50 Amp breaker that consists of two individual breakers joined together to form a single unit and used on 240 Volt circuit.
After the new circuit is run to the kitchen, it needs to be connected to the receptacle. The correct electrical code requires a four-wire set up. Most of the older electric ranges have three wire set-ups. If you are purchasing a new stove, you may very well need to replace the old set up entirely.
Converting from Electric to Gas
If your home currently has one gas-fired appliance, you can add as many gas fired appliances as you want. The only thing you need to do is to install a gas line to each of the new appliances. For this you will need:
- A roll of soft copper pipe
- Assorted short lengths of threaded black pipe.
- Union fittings that connect nipples to the main pipe.
- A separate shut off valve for the range gas line supply. You need this so you can shut off the gas to the appliance without shutting off all the gas in the home.
- As required by code, a pipe joint compound for coating all the threaded connections.
It's best to hire a professional to handle the job and most plumbers can handle the task of installing a gas line.
Be sure either you or the plumber checks the line for gas leaks. Here is what you need to do:
- Apply a solution of soap and water to each connection
- Turn on the gas and look for bubbles
- If bubbles form, tighten the fitting slightly with a pipe wrench and recheck.
- If you still see leaks, disassemble the fittings and check the flare shape
If you smell gas, shut off the gas and open a window. Do not turn on a light or use an electric fan to get rid of the fumes. A spark could cause the gas to ignite and cause an explosion.
If you have purchased a range that uses the same fuel source as your old range, installing the appliance should be as easy as sliding in or dropping in the unit.
The main thing to avoid in this installation is damaging the floor so use cardboard under the oven to slide it in place.