Double Pole Switch Problem
#1
04-25-12, 10:17 AM
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: usa
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Double Pole Switch Problem
Hi,
I am attempting to install a new-to-me dishwasher. It is connected to a double pole switch, which I had switched off during installation.After everythig was all hooked up I turned the circuit breaker back on (20 amp) and flipped the switch; there was power to the appliance (the voltage indicator indicated that ), but it did not function correctly. I tried the switch to see if there were any issues there and when I tried to flip the switch- it felt as if it was jammed, I ouldn't flip it off. I hit the circuit and installed a new double pole switch. I am wondering what I have done wrong- I marked the wires as they came off the old switch and reinstalled the same way to the new one. When I turn the switch on, however, it immediately flips the breaker in the box- and the dishwasher isn't even on, no juice is being pulled through it to trip it. Any idea why the switch is popping the breaker, and how I determine what is the cause. Also, I know this may be a different forum's question, but what are the chances that some electrical issue screwed up the electronics of the dishwasher?
Thanks so much!
I am attempting to install a new-to-me dishwasher. It is connected to a double pole switch, which I had switched off during installation.After everythig was all hooked up I turned the circuit breaker back on (20 amp) and flipped the switch; there was power to the appliance (the voltage indicator indicated that ), but it did not function correctly. I tried the switch to see if there were any issues there and when I tried to flip the switch- it felt as if it was jammed, I ouldn't flip it off. I hit the circuit and installed a new double pole switch. I am wondering what I have done wrong- I marked the wires as they came off the old switch and reinstalled the same way to the new one. When I turn the switch on, however, it immediately flips the breaker in the box- and the dishwasher isn't even on, no juice is being pulled through it to trip it. Any idea why the switch is popping the breaker, and how I determine what is the cause. Also, I know this may be a different forum's question, but what are the chances that some electrical issue screwed up the electronics of the dishwasher?
Thanks so much!
#2
04-25-12, 10:27 AM
Super Moderator
First...I'm not sure why there would be a disconnect switch for a dishwasher? Second....a double pole switch would be used on a 240V circuit...not 120. You don't switch the neutral...and I think it's against code.
The only thing that makes sense with your issue (other than the above) is that the wiring is wrong. You are connecting the hot and neutral at the switch or something is shorted in the DW wiring.
The only thing that makes sense with your issue (other than the above) is that the wiring is wrong. You are connecting the hot and neutral at the switch or something is shorted in the DW wiring.
#3
04-25-12, 10:59 AM
Forum Topic Moderator
A means of disconnect is required, but a single pole switch could be used.
Is the breaker a single or double pole? Can you describe the wiring connections you made at the DW and the switch?
Is the breaker a single or double pole? Can you describe the wiring connections you made at the DW and the switch?
#4
04-25-12, 11:09 AM
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: usa
Posts: 12
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Thanks for getting back to me so quickly! Unfortunately, I am not sure how to proceed.
Random thoughts:
I think the switch is code here in NC, or at least it seems to be pretty common. A a switch, but I don't know why there is a double pole switch since you are saying they are for something that only pulls a lot more amps then a dish washer!
The old dishwasher ran just fine with the old setup.
What does "you don't switch the neutral" mean?
The installation on the new switch seemed super straight forward-I just duplicated what was there with the same exact type of switch..as far as I can tell. What could I have gotten wrong there?
If I disconnect the dishwasher and try the switch will that tell me anything, or is it impossible to tell if something is wrong with the switch or switch wiring unless there is something hooked up at the end of the line (like the dishwasher..GULP!)?
Thanks so much!
Random thoughts:
I think the switch is code here in NC, or at least it seems to be pretty common. A a switch, but I don't know why there is a double pole switch since you are saying they are for something that only pulls a lot more amps then a dish washer!
The old dishwasher ran just fine with the old setup.
What does "you don't switch the neutral" mean?
The installation on the new switch seemed super straight forward-I just duplicated what was there with the same exact type of switch..as far as I can tell. What could I have gotten wrong there?
If I disconnect the dishwasher and try the switch will that tell me anything, or is it impossible to tell if something is wrong with the switch or switch wiring unless there is something hooked up at the end of the line (like the dishwasher..GULP!)?
Thanks so much!
#6
04-25-12, 11:19 AM
Super Moderator
Odd....never saw a switch or disconnect for a DW other than the breaker. Live and learn I guess.
#7
04-25-12, 11:41 AM
On modern installs you would use a cord set (plug) and receptacle. That would serve as a disconnect. Even if hard wired you would not use a two pole switch.You would use a single pole switch.
#10
04-25-12, 12:50 PM
See NEC: 422.31/422.32/422.33/422.34 and 422.35 -Which most people violate—if they install a decorative switch.
