Full-size electric ranges typically need a 40-50 amp, 240-volt dedicated circuit. Most modern ranges require a 50A circuit.
| Recommended wire | 6/3 NM-B or 6 AWG THHN |
| Breaker | 50A double-pole |
| Voltage | 240V |
| Typical amperage | 40A |
| Circuit amperage | 50A |
| NEC reference | NEC 220.55 |
| Max recommended distance | About 185 feet one-way for 3% drop at 40A |
Smaller cooktops may only need a 40A circuit with 8 AWG wire. Always check the nameplate rating.
6 AWG copper wire on a 50A, 240V double-pole breaker for most full-size electric ranges. Some smaller or older ranges specify a 40A circuit (8 AWG copper). Check the range nameplate — use the largest breaker it specifies without exceeding it.
Most modern full-size electric ranges are rated for a 50-amp circuit with 6 AWG copper wire. Some compact or older models specify 40A (8 AWG). NEC 210.19(A)(3) sets a 40A minimum branch-circuit rating for ranges of 8¾ kW or more; most full-size ranges list 50A on the nameplate.
No — NEC 250.140 requires 4-wire connections for new range installations. Old 3-wire connections (two hots and a neutral, no separate ground) in existing homes may be kept, but all new rough-in wiring must use 4-wire cable (10/3 or 6/3 with separate ground).
Size a double wall oven from its nameplate: most need a 40A circuit with 8 AWG copper or a 50A circuit with 6 AWG copper at 240V. New installations use a 4-wire circuit (two hots, neutral, ground) on a double-pole breaker.