6-2 vs 6-3 wire for range

17 years ago

Hello,

I am buying a new range and wondering if I would get any better kind of performance or efficiency out of new wire, 6-3. The existing is 6-2 w/ground. The new range calls for a 4-prong outlet but comes with both cords, the older 3prong and newer 4prong. I'm guessing the existing wire is about 20-30 years old, though it could be older.

Thanks very much.

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Comments (4)

joed
17 years ago
You get no better performance. However code requires 6/3 when wiring a range. You are no longer permitted to install a 3 wire range receptacle.
brickeyee
17 years ago
You are only required to upgrade the range circuit to 3 wire (plus ground) if you alter the circuit.

If the new range calls for the same size (amps) circuit you can continue to use it with a 2 wire (plus ground) plug.

Some AHJs will consider simply moving the receptacle an alteration, others do not.

This can be an issue since the allowed location for a new range for the receptacle may not match the existing location.
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joefixit2
17 years ago
Hopefully your existing circuit is a #6 SEU cable, not a 6/2 romex with ground, which was never legal. Is it a flat cable with 2 insulated #6 and a concentric, stranded neutral wrapped around the two 6's?
garoj
Original Author
17 years ago
Thank you.

The cable is flat and says: Narragansett 6-2 8-1 SE U

I will look into amperage requirements though.