What is a Double Tapped Breaker?

A double tapped breaker is found when there are two supply wires placed under one breaker lug or connection. This is found typically in the electrical sub panel breaker box and also can be found at the main breaker. Someone has purposefully installed an extra circuit into one that is only supposed to have one going to it.

Why would someone double tap a breaker?

Essentially, someone is trying to make the installation of a new circuit, oftentimes when people add an extra piece of equipment, but don’t have the space to install a new breaker in the panel. So, they end up taking the wire for the new equipment and jamming it into an already existing breaker. This will overload this breaker and will put your building at risk for fire or damage.

What is wrong with a double tapped breaker circuit?

Majority of the breakers found inside electrical panels are only rated by the manufacturer for accepting one wire. If the wire is loose or the load is too much for any breaker, a resulting fire can occur. Picture an air conditioning (AC) unit that requires a 50 amp breaker for the installation. Now the homeowner decides to install a hot tub but takes its wire and puts it into the 50 amp AC breaker that already has a wire going into it. You now have 2 high powered devices drawing energy from one underrated circuit and a fire could result.

How do I fix a double tapped breaker?

There are a few ways to fix this issue. Some are more costly than others, however. We always recommend consulting with a licensed electrician before making any repairs.

  • Option 1: Have an electrician install a tandem breaker. These can oftentimes fit in an existing spot on the breaker panel and contain two separate circuit lugs for the two wires.
  • Option 2: Have an electrician install a breaker that can accommodate two wires. These are not as common but are easily available and will be safer than double tapping a breaker. There is a special designation symbol on the front of the breaker that shows two wires are allowed.
  • Option 3: Add another breaker to the panel. However, if no room exists in the current breaker panel, a new panel would have to be installed. This would be the most expensive option and would require the skills of a licensed electrician.
Balcony railing inspections in Florida

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Balcony Railing Inspections in Florida

Imagine enjoying a beautiful Florida sunset from your balcony, only to have the railing give way beneath you. That's terrifying! Balcony railing inspections in Florida aren't just a formality. They're a crucial safeguard against accidents and potential liabilities....
nnn lease inspection

The Benefits of Regular NNN Lease Inspections for Commercial Properties

When investing in commercial real estate, the longevity and profitability of your investment hinge on several factors. Property management practices play a pivotal role. One often overlooked but crucial strategy is conducting an NNN lease inspection. This detailed...
radon services

Radon Services: The Importance of Radon Testing for Homeowners

Roughly 88% of homebuyers get a home inspection when they buy a house. Out of those inspections, almost the same amount show some kind of problem that needs to be fixed. In a best-case scenario, all a homeowner needs to do is patch up a hole in their roof or replace a...
commercial building inspection checklist

7 Crucial Components of a Successful Commercial Building Inspection Checklist

Imagine owning property that paid for itself. You won't have to worry about your mortgage, and you even have extra money to spend on other obligations. Your passive income stream will be significantly larger when you purchase commercial property. However, it's...
fire hazards

Life Safety: How to Identify Fire Hazards in Commercial Buildings

The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that there were 116,500 non-residential building fires in the U.S. in 2021. They resulted in $3.7 billion in direct property damage. These staggering figures are proof that fire is one of the most devastating forces that can...
home inspection services

How Valuable Are Home Inspection Services? Let Me List the Ways

You might think that getting a home inspection is an unnecessary expense. But according to a recent study by porch.com, 86% of inspectors find something that needs attention. However, home inspections are not just about finding problems; they can also save you money...
swimming pool inspection services

7 Reasons to Hire Swimming Pool Inspection Services

"Don't pee in the pool, or the water will turn purple!" your friends used to tell you back in the day while swimming during summer vacation. Sadly, chlorine in the water doesn't turn purple when exposed to urine. Instead, it becomes less effective at tackling bacteria...
commercial building inspections

5 Things to Know About Commercial Building Inspections

Have you ever walked into a building and wondered about its structural soundness? Have you considered buying or leasing a commercial space?  Regular inspections are essential for safety and compliance. That is especially true if you own or manage commercial buildings...
balcony railings

9 Benefits of Having Your Hotel’s Balcony Railings Inspected

Did you know that some Americans are budgeting up to three weeks of income toward summer vacations? If you run a hotel, that means you need to prepare for a surge in bookings. And that also means you need to make sure you're operating a safe building where guests can...
Pool leak detection near me

Pool Leak Detection Near Me: How Much Does Pool Leak Detection Cost?

There are about 10.4 million residential pools in the US. A pool is a great addition to any home. It provides a place to relax and have fun during the summer and also helps increase the value of a property. There can, however, be certain issues that arise with them....

Request Inspection

We perform thousands of inspections every year

Let our experience of residential and commercial property inspections in the Greater Orlando area work to your advantage!

Click Here To Schedule Online