If the two lines to the main circuit breaker each show 120 volts when grounded, why would they not have 240 volts when tested across the two lines?

Longer version is: no water from well. 120 on both hot wires to pump, but no 240 across. Same at pressure switch and circuit breaker.

Problem started two days ago. When I checked the lines feeding the main circuit breaker one leg was dead. Called ComEd, they came out, said there was a fault in the underground line, and put in a temp box next to the pole. Said they would be back in 4-6 weeks to put in a new line.

Now I have 120v on each leg coming in, but no 240v across. Same for all the 240v breakers in the box. None of them are supplying 240.

ComEd problem or bad main circuit breaker?
Thanks for any help; seems none of the local electricians are working today.

 

Not sure what a temp box is. If it isn't a meter socket please post pictures including pictures with the cover removed so we can see the wiring. http://www.doityourself.com/forum/li...rt-images.html

 

You must measure 240vac across the two legs.

You're seeing 120v on both legs (the same 120v) because it's going to the pump on the working leg and coming back on the dead leg.

 

Thanks. I am getting 120 on each leg with the wires disconnected from the pump.
All seven 240v breakers have 120 at each of the two wires, but no 240 when tested across.

 

Turn off all your two pole breakers and see if you have 120 volts to ground on the lines coming into the building. You likely have dropped one leg of your 240 volts

 

Call them back. They gave you power on the dead leg, but they took it from the remaining live leg. What they did will give you lights and receptacle power on the other leg of your panel, but it won't give you 240 volts to anything. Call them back and tell them that isn't acceptable. Call their emergency 24/7 number.