Multiple wires on breakers.

[theodorebeltz]

Upon doing an inspection on an existing building I found several 20a/1p breakers that had two wires going to them. Apparently the electrician ran out of breaker space and just piggy-backed onto a breaker already in use. My question is where in the NEC can I find that this is not legal?

 

[roger]

110.14(A) is where the NEC gives permission but that will depend on the breaker itself.

Roger

 

[petersonra]

Upon doing an inspection on an existing building I found several 20a/1p breakers that had two wires going to them. Apparently the electrician ran out of breaker space and just piggy-backed onto a breaker already in use. My question is where in the NEC can I find that this is not legal?

If the breaker terminal is identified for 2 wires it is generally acceptable to the code to do this, unless the two wires are required to be separate circuits for some reason.

 

[Carultch]

If the breaker terminal is identified for 2 wires it is generally acceptable to the code to do this, unless the two wires are required to be separate circuits for some reason.

It is common for 15A breakers to be rated for 2 wires.

 

[ActionDave]

It is common for 15A breakers to be rated for 2 wires.

No it isn't.

 

[infinity]

The only common CB's that I see regularly rated for two conductors are Square D QO series.

 

[K8MHZ]

The only common CB's that I see regularly rated for two conductors are Square D QO series.

I'd have to go look to be sure, but I think Homelines can accept two conductors, too.

 

[jumper]

Cutler Hammer CH (tan handles) series also.