30amp, 2-pole Circuit breaker in Panel - question


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Old 01-20-12, 06:16 PM
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30amp, 2-pole Circuit breaker in Panel - question

I have a 30-amp, 2-pole circuit breaker in my electrical panel that is used for my electric dryer. I need to move that breaker down 1 row on the panel in order to make room for another 2-pole breaker above it.

Is there any reason why I can't move it down? Does the panel only allow for 2-pole breakers in certain places?
 
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Old 01-20-12, 06:27 PM
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Is there any reason why I can't move it down? Does the panel only allow for 2-pole breakers in certain places?
Some do only allow them in certain places. If you post the make and model one of the pros can answer your question.
 
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Old 01-20-12, 06:36 PM
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There's nothing written on the outside of the panel but it's a 200-amp panel with 2 columns of 20 rows for breakers.
 
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Old 01-20-12, 07:32 PM
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You need to look inside the panel. Can you take pictures? That might help also. http://www.doityourself.com/forum/li...-pictures.html
 
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Old 01-21-12, 04:13 AM
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Unless you have a split buss panel, normally there are only restrictions on where tandems can be used.
 
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Old 01-21-12, 05:07 AM
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There's nothing written on the outside of the panel but it's a 200-amp panel with 2 columns of 20 rows for breakers.
You may find a label inside the door or inside the panel box once the cover and door have been removed. If I understand "2 columns of 20", you may have a 40 circuit 200 amp panel that is full. Your options may be limited, but we cannot tell without a picture.
 
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Old 01-21-12, 09:28 AM
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pcboss got it right. I’ve never seen any electrical panels that didn’t accept two pole breakers—Listed and rated for the equipment. As mentioned, they will have restrictions on twin, or quad type breakers.

I see no problem with you moving the breaker down 1;2; or three spaces. Sound like you have room to add?
 
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Old 01-21-12, 10:09 AM
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If the single pole that is moving is part of a multiwire branch circuit now would be a good time to put both legs on a two pole breaker.
 
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Old 01-21-12, 10:12 AM
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Pcboss,

has raised an excellent point! While moving the breaker, you may have to move a multi-circuit. You absolute have to make sure you get this right.
 
 

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