dlpearce74
New member
Hi,
I am brand new to the forums, did a quick search for heat pumps, but didn't hit my topic.
Unit: Package Goodman PHJ type, 8KW heating kit
Outside disconnect box has a 60Amp breaker for heating circuit (specifically for the heater circuit, no compressor/fan load here).
8KW Heating kit has a 35MM DIN HACR rated 40Amp breaker inside control box.
The problem is two fold: first, resetting this breaker is impossible without taking out ~30 screws. Secondly, moisture in the chamber where the 40Amp breaker is located is taking its toll on the 40Amp breaker (mildew/moisture), and it needs replacement.
My question is, would it be within code to bypass the internal 40Amp breaker, and replace the 60Amp disconnect breaker, with a 40Amp unit?
Electrically, this would seem to be the same setup. However, I have two concerns:
1) Would this be OK and within NEC limits? (ie., would a fire inspector jump me for it, if my house burned down?)
2) Would it be possible for the engineers who originally designed the heater controls perhaps be using the circuit breakers in the control box as both a current limit AND a thermal limiter? The heater box has a thermal limiter, but could the breaker be a fallback? Is that a NEC-OK use for a breaker (not looking for a lawsuit, but I would love to rid myself of this 40Amp internal breaker).
Thanks,
David
I am brand new to the forums, did a quick search for heat pumps, but didn't hit my topic.
Unit: Package Goodman PHJ type, 8KW heating kit
Outside disconnect box has a 60Amp breaker for heating circuit (specifically for the heater circuit, no compressor/fan load here).
8KW Heating kit has a 35MM DIN HACR rated 40Amp breaker inside control box.
The problem is two fold: first, resetting this breaker is impossible without taking out ~30 screws. Secondly, moisture in the chamber where the 40Amp breaker is located is taking its toll on the 40Amp breaker (mildew/moisture), and it needs replacement.
My question is, would it be within code to bypass the internal 40Amp breaker, and replace the 60Amp disconnect breaker, with a 40Amp unit?
Electrically, this would seem to be the same setup. However, I have two concerns:
1) Would this be OK and within NEC limits? (ie., would a fire inspector jump me for it, if my house burned down?)
2) Would it be possible for the engineers who originally designed the heater controls perhaps be using the circuit breakers in the control box as both a current limit AND a thermal limiter? The heater box has a thermal limiter, but could the breaker be a fallback? Is that a NEC-OK use for a breaker (not looking for a lawsuit, but I would love to rid myself of this 40Amp internal breaker).
Thanks,
David