Hand Dryer Wiring 101: What Every Contractor Needs to Know

Most contractors think installing a hand dryer is just another wall job. Wrong. The wiring is where projects go sideways — blowing breakers, failing inspections, or worse, putting liability squarely on your back. If you want installs that are fast, compliant, and bulletproof, this guide breaks down everything you need to know before you drill a single hole.

Power Requirements by Model

Not all commercial hand dryers are created equal. Most run on 110–120V or 208–240V, but the wattage draw makes a big difference.

  • Typical draw: 1,500W–2,200W

  • Translation: that “little” box on the wall can eat power like a space heater.

  • Rookie mistake: using plug-in hand dryers for high-traffic restrooms. They’re fine for an office of 10 people — not a stadium, airport, or school hallway.

Pro move: Always check the spec sheet for voltage and wattage before quoting labor. That five-minute check saves a two-hour callback.

Breaker Sizing: Don’t Wing It

If you guess, you fail. Most commercial hand dryers require a dedicated 20-amp circuit.

  • One hand dryer = one circuit.

  • Multiple hand dryers = load calculation. Example: Three XLERATOR hand dryers on a 20-amp line? Forget it. Each pulls ~11.3 amps at 120V. You’ll trip breakers all day.

  • NEC’s 80% rule: A circuit should never be loaded above 80% of its rating for continuous use. Translation: 16A max on a 20A breaker.

Ignore this, and your client will be calling you from a dark restroom wondering why nothing works.

Wiring & Circuit Planning

Get this right and your installation will be perfect. Screw it up and you’re stuck redoing tile work.

  • Wire gauge: #12 AWG copper for 20A circuits is standard. Longer runs? Account for voltage drop.

  • Surface mount vs. recessed: Surface-mount hand dryers often allow easier conduit runs. Recessed installs may demand tighter bends and cleaner conduit work.

  • Don’t piggyback off lighting circuits. It might pass the “quick test,” but inspectors — and real-world loads — will crush you.

Code Compliance & ADA Tie-In

It’s not just about making a commercial hand dryer work — it’s about making it legal.

  • ADA mounting height: The bottom of the hand dryer must be no higher than 48 inches from the floor for a forward reach if unobstructed and 44 inches max if there is an obstruction in front of the hand dryer. If the primary users are children, then the maximum mounting height is 40 inches above the floor. That changes your wiring clearance. Refer to our ADA compliance guide for more information, if needed.

  • GFCI protection: Required in restrooms. If your hand dryer’s spec doesn’t mention it, assume the inspector will.

  • Local codes: NEC is the baseline, but cities love to add their own twist. Always confirm before rough-in.

Pro Tips from the Field

  • Pre-wire before tile: Saves hours and avoids busted finishes.

  • Flexible conduit: Faster and more forgiving than rigid for tight installs.

  • Spec sheets are gospel: Every manufacturer posts them. Print them, highlight them, and keep them in your truck.

The Bottom Line

Contractors who wire commercial hand dryers right the first time don’t just save headaches — they build reputations. Get the power right, pass inspection on the first shot, and move on to the next job while your competition is re-running conduit. Hand dryers may look simple, but the wiring is where pros stand apart from amateurs. Nail this once, and you’ll own every job that comes after.

Need specs, wiring diagrams, or contractor pricing? Contact us and get the right commercial hand dryer for the job, the first time.