Cleveland Apprentice
Senior Member
- Location
- Cleveland, Oh
Does anyone know if it's ok to install GE breakers in Siemens panels? They look they will snap in without a problem. How do you know what breakers are interchangable? Thank you.
As a former Bldg Inpector and now Plans Examiner, I have failed installations for having breakers installed that were not listed by the panel manufacturer for use in that particular panel. The key component is "listed by the panel manufacturer".
I have seen some GE, Square D Homeline, Bryant, Siemens and Eaton(Cutler-Hammer) breakers all in one panel. I think it was either a bunch of different homeowners over time doing this or "Fly-by-Night Electric".
I never( in my 26 years of wiring) have seen a problem with breakers from different manufacturer give a problem in another panel. I know it's code and I follow the rule but this is a legal issue with the manufacturers.
I never( in my 26 years of wiring) have seen a problem with breakers from different manufacturer give a problem in another panel. I know it's code and I follow the rule but this is a legal issue with the manufacturers.
I am sorry to say it is not just a legal issue it could result in your license for not adhering to it.
The whole issue of listing and classified is that the breakers are tested and approved for a use. That's it. When we as electricians become a testing lab and certify compliance with standards then we can put those breakers in.
As a former Bldg Inpector and now Plans Examiner, I have failed installations for having breakers installed that were not listed by the panel manufacturer for use in that particular panel. The key component is "listed by the panel manufacturer".
This is a tricky one. Cutler Hammer makes classified breakers which say their breakers can go in GE, Siemans, Homeline, etc panels, BUT the panels only list their own breakers as being suitable. So a electrician can show that the classified breaker is listed for a particular panel, but the same panel does not have a listing for the Cutler Hammer breaker.
I never( in my 26 years of wiring) have seen a problem with breakers from different manufacturer give a problem in another panel. I know it's code and I follow the rule but this is a legal issue with the manufacturers.
Well, I have.
I had a call about a breaker making noise....when I pulled it out to inspect it part of it stayed on the bus, arcing and sparking and melting metal.....That panel had about four different brands of breakers in it.
I personally think you over stepped your authority. As others have said, the mfr. does not 'list' anything, they do pay a NRTL to test and list their equipment and components...and of course they are not going to pay to list their competitors components.
UL is a NRTL that does list and 'certify' breakers for use in others equipment.
As an inspector, and Electrical Plans Examiner, I just ask the electrician to provide me with the documentation showing the breaker in question is listed/certified to be used in the panel being inspected. Only when the electrician cannot provide me with the necessary documentation do I fail the installation. [Actually I don't fail the installation, I write a correction notice requiring him to install a certified/listed component].
On these inspections I give them a 'pass with conditions' - no final until the conditions have been met. I don't think it is right to fail a job out of hand just because I don't have all the information...the electrician should be given an opportunity to verify he is right.
As mentioned by other posters, it does look more professional using the breakers made by the manufacturer of the panels. Since reading is fundemental, look and read the cover of any new panel. The manufacturer lists the approved breakers they recommend for use in that particular panel.
Sure, it you can make anything work, if you want. Why take a chance? Based on your YEARS of experience? What do you save by not using the recommended breakers? A trip to the warehouse? Didn't you plan ahead? I always stock a few 15 and 20amp breakers in my service truck. Having the right parts on hand saves me time, makes my job look good and makes me a hero to my client.