I have a 200 amp panel. On the 110v side, is it acceptable by code for the sum of the breakers to exceed 200 amps? I have more than 10 lines coming into the box (15 actually) and would like to consider using 5 tandem breakers, but the total of the breakers would add up to more than 200 amps. I have considered running two wires into a wire nut and then some pigtails into existing breakers. Basically, which would be better??
It is a Siemens and I know that it will take tandems. Any opinion on which is better - tandems or wire nutting two lines to a pigtail - or is it just a matter of perference?
Quality wise it's the same. There is no difference. But on a tandem breaker, you'll get a few extra amps. (But common sense tells not to use any of the tandems to the max. Especially continuous loads. Even when the load calculations meet code requirements. Because after all, the tap from the Bus bar is designed for one breaker.:yes::no:!
Yes, JP. I'm aware of that. I pointed out to the OP that with a tandem breaker you get the advantage of an extra breaker (as opposed to just pigtailing two circuits to one breaker. There's no need (on my part) to repeat the rest of what I said about Tandem breakers. Because I have nothing to add at this time.:no:!
not confused, just want to know if either one is preferred. sounds like it is 6 of one / 1/2 dozen the other. i had a home inspection that picked up a few breakers with double taps - i did the repair using the pigtail method - i just wanted to know if using tandems (and thereby exceeding 200 amps of circuit breakers on the 110 side) was acceptable - it sounds like my existing repair is just as good as inserting tandems.
Square D does have one type of breaker (don't know the model#) that is not a tandem breaker, where you can officially connect Two wires to one terminal. (The terminal having a slot on both ends.)
On the subject of inserting more breakers that will exceed the total amperage. Why it is permitted. It is based on the fact that you (no one) will not use all the lights and equipment to the max. load at the same time. This is an issue that is confusing to most people who are not electricians. I had a customer (of a 1-Family residence) who argued with the utility (Con-Ed) rep. why they didn't increase his Service beyond 200 Amps. (The max. for residential service.):yes::no::yes: (Highly confusing)!
It was 3-4x as much for my bill, others have $1k+ electric bills just for their display
I opted to switch to CFL & LED's
I went from using 125a down to about 50a
But my display is still getting bigger
Actually, since having more than 200 amps on the 110 side is not a violation, I might change what I have done (with the two runs into a wire nut with a pigtail) and use tandems. It has more to do with the wording on the repair portion of the agreement of sale which states " have each run to it's own breaker". Sometimes doing it EXACTLY as stated is safer so there are no arguments. :yes::wink:
Actually, since having more than 200 amps on the 110 side is not a violation, I might change what I have done (with the two runs into a wire nut with a pigtail) and use tandems. It has more to do with the wording on the repair portion of the agreement of sale which states " have each run to it's own breaker". Sometimes doing it EXACTLY as stated is safer so there are no arguments. :yes::wink:
Yep - 5 double taps to the Seimens breakers which are not approved for double taps. I did two runs to a wire nut with a pigtail to the breakers, but I will change it to tandems so that it is exactly as the agreement states.
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
DIY Home Improvement Forum
3.1M posts
319.6K members
Since 2003
A forum community dedicated to Do it yourself-ers and home improvement enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about tools, projects, builds, styles, scales, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! Helping You to Do It Yourself!