Splice or Double tap

[John Harrison]

From what I understand about the issues with a double tap are:

1. Multiple wires under 1 lug could work loose.
2. Multiple devices on one breaker could cause overheating and or overload.

A local electritian just told me that you can legally splice into the wires running to a breaker rather than double tapping them.

Wouldn't this still pose the same concern of multiple devices on one breaker, and therefore require to be fixed.

[Jeffrey R. Pope]

"Pig-tailing" two conductors to one, is an acceptable way to eliminate a double tapped breaker.

To many outlets on a breaker or circuit can contribute to an overload.

A double tap creates the potential for a loose/poor connection, which in turn creates higer resistance and heat build-up. A breaker must be specifically listed to accept more than one conductor.

[William Warner]

Originally Posted by jpope

"Pig-tailing" two conductors to one, is an acceptable way to eliminate a double tapped breaker.

And to add to Jeff's post (not that he needs any assistance )... watch for improperly sized (over fused) conductors on the pigtail.