240 Volt circuit wiring

[Handy1966]

I am wiring a new circuit for a 240-volt electric baseboard heater. I have a diagram showing a 12-2 wire (assuming hot, hot, grnd), but I have been told I should use a 12-3 (hot, hot, neutral, grnd) - which is right/better? :roll:

[imported_trinitro]

Most heaters only require 2 hots and a ground wire. A netral is not required. If the installation instructions call for a 2 hot/ground then use that.

[Wgoodrich]

TRinitro is right but using the 12/2wGrnd means you will be using the white wire as a hot wire thus requring you to install a black ring of tape identifying that white wire as a hot wire.

Also be aware that the thermostat must break both hot wires to control the heating elements producing heat. The NEC does not allow you to break just one hot wire of this heater. Use a double pole 240 volt thermostat not a single pole thermostat.

Good Luck

Wg