Electric Dryers or Ranges with a Quad Circuit Breaker
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Quad Circuit Breakers Save Space in Approved Electrical Panels – As described in this question, a quad circuit breaker may be used in panels that are approved for tandem circuit breakers, and a quad breaker is essentially two special tandem circuit breakers that are connected and have the required tie bar or handle for the 240 volt circuits. © By: Dave Rongey |
Quad Circuit Breakers Provide Two 240 Volt Circuits
Electrical Troubleshooting Question: A slot in an Electric Panel usually contains 1 circuit breaker. However, I noticed that 2 slots (side by side), say breaker 18 and 20, have 4 circuit breakers (2-30 amps for dryer over 2-40 amps for electric range/oven).
- I believe that Dryer’s breaker is 18A and 20A, tied together and Range’s breaker is 18B and 20B, also bar tied together. Is this OK?
- Also, if breaker 18A keeps tripping, should 20A be replaced also as they are bar tied? Thanks for your reply.
This home electrical repairs question came from: Toti, from Holbrook, New York
Additional Comments: Very useful and informative. Will definitely recommend your site to my friends.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical troubleshooting question Toti.
Understanding Quad Circuit Breakers
Skill Level for Quad Circuit Breakers: Advanced – Working in electrical panels is not recommended for homeowners. For best results consult a licensed electrical contractor.
Skill Level for Troubleshooting: Intermediate to Advanced
Tools Required: Basic electricians pouch and a volt tester.
Time Required: One hour or less depending on your abilities experience.
Quad Circuit Breakers Save Space in Approved Electrical Panels
As described in this question, a quad circuit breaker may be used in panels that are approved for tandem circuit breakers, and a quad breaker is essentially two special tandem circuit breakers that are connected and have the required tie bar or handle for the two 240 volt circuits.
- In this question, one of the 240 volt circuits described is tripping OFF, and the question is asked: should I replace the circuit breaker?
- The answer is to replace the circuit breaker only if it is visually damaged or defective.
- About 98% of tripping circuit breakers do so because there is a problem with the circuit wiring or a connection to the electrical equipment or device and not a problem with the circuit breaker.
- So before rushing out to buy a new circuit breaker make sure to check the circuit for problems, which in many cases is found at the other end when the connections have been made.
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