The panel manufacturers have the responsibility to mechanically limit the
number of breakers in their panels, whether it be full sized, half sized or
a combination of both. If you've reached the max positions in the panel, you
can add a small sub panel until you do your service increase



"JBC" wrote in message
...

HorneTD Wrote:
OK......well and good for someone knowing the code and all. But, in-
regular do-it-yourself language....how can I tell if a breaker box is
OK with a tandem breaker?-

If that breakers model/part number is not listed on the label in the
panel cabinet and that panel's model/part number is not listed on a
list
that is packed with the breaker then you cannot use that breaker in
that
panel.
--
Tom H

The Breaker container has no mention of any panel. I can't see where
the panel mentions any breaker type either. They are both QO
(SquareD), and the type of clips that holds it in and makes electrical
contact are the same. I'm just wondering why there is a problem. It's
hard to find breakers for my panel, most I've seen have this hook
looking type of clip

The only thing I can think of, is that 40 versus 20 amps could
effectively be pulled though the breakers incoming hot rail connection
point, that's it. And since the rail clips for both single and tandem
breakers are exactly the same width, one can only conclude that a panel
made for tandem breakers must have a rail that's more conductive.
That's the only reasoning I can see. Is it supposed to start a fire as
it sparks from 40 amps running across the connection? I just don't get
it!

Is there an engineer handy?

Obviously I don't want to start a fire. The only other solution I have
is to have a new service put in, which is beyond my abilities, not to
mention the steep price tag.

Is it actually safer to have the single 20 amp breaker trip
periodically? The wiring dates back to 1957 (not the Panel I believe,
It would have fuses right) so the circuit covers several rooms, which
draws more current than the 20 amp breakers limit? I figure it's
better to add a 20 amp tandem and run wire for the second side, than to
increase the breaker to 30 amps because the existing wire gage might not
be able to handle 30 amps.

My plan is to increase the service rating (the MAIN breaker is 100 amps
at this point) and rewire the entire house eventually.

So what's my course of action in the interim?


--
JBC