Can Duplex Breaker be "unhooked" and used as 2 singles? 2nd time asked?
Question:OK, I'll be clearer this time. I have a NEW duplex 15A double breaker (Siemens) I bought 3-4 years ago for a project that I never completed. I see the little metal piece that connects the 2 switches is made removable, allowing each part to function as a separate breaker. I need 2 more 15A circuits in a new box on a new project and wondered if it was permissible to just remove the metal piece and use these as separate breakers for the 2 light circuits. I didn't see anything in Code, but just wanted to make sure before the inspection. To repeat, they have not been used! If there is a prohibition in Code, please give me the section number. I didn't find any, and these Siemens breakers allow for the metal connector to pop off, not like some breakers I've seen that would take what one would call a "modification" to separate them. They look totally electrically separate when the metal cap is pulled off. If there is a reason not to use these, please be specific. Thanks.
Answers:
You are persistent I have to give you that. And determined to save 5 bucks. OK, here is an answer more to your liking. Article 110.3 for one, requires equipment to be listed for the purpose. So that breaker was tested and listed by a testing and listing agency (think UL) as a 2 pole breaker. If you modify it, it is no longer listed. So it is not allowed to be used. Check with your local inspector.
Now, why not use it for it's original purpose without modifying it? A multi wire circuit is legal for most circuits, including lighting circuits. If the use and location of your new circuits permits a multi wire circuit, just pull two "hots" and a shared neutral to your lighting circuits? In that case the handle must stay in place to open all ungrounded (hot) wires to the circuit at once. See 210.4 The only problem is if one of your lighting circuits trips, so will the other one.
I hope this helps you out.
Not knowing that product, one would be wise not to give you a a yes or now answer. Try giving the model number to Siemens and let them tell you.
Are you talking about a double pole breaker, the type you use for a 240V circuit?
You are best off taking this subject up with your local code official and the manufacturer.
Yes, however, if this is a full size breaker covering two breaker positions in the service let-in or sub-panel and will terminate in a common "J" box for further distribution, pigtail to avoid 240V on each leg.
Yes but if one part fails you will need to buy two breakers anyway. They are manufactured as one piece. Also the two singles aren't all that expensive either. As mentioned in other answers it was designed for a 15 Amp 240 volt circuit.
Good luck ! ! !
Take the 220 breaker back to any store that carries that brand and get two 110's. Come on.
It will work. The 220 line has two hot wires each carrying 110 from one of the connected breakers. You can run two separate lines, but why.
You'll just make things confusing for someone else someday.
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