I received this email from a realtor about a report where I highlighted a double lug breaker in the service panel. I dn’t know where it was, how long agao it was or if he is even the seller or buyer agent.
I need some input on how you other fine inspectors are writing up this issue. Sorry I have no photos…
I am writing this to inform you, as I have numerous other home inspectors who write up the double lugging of circuit breakers, that this practice is not always incorrect. It has been, for many years now, an industry standard to install more than one wire on a circuit breaker designed to accept more than one wire. Of course, as you point out, the load on the circuit breaker may not exceed more than 80% of the circuit breakers rating. This practice of double lugging in certain situations is approved in the NEC and by all local jurisdictions.
This usage of double lugging is generally found to be used when there is two air handling units in a residence. These air handlers only operate small fan motors The loads, when both are put on one circuit breaker, have been designed so as not to exceed the maximum load of the circuit breaker.
I agree that double lugging is something that a home inspector should be looking for as a safety issue. But it is not always an improper installation as most home inspectors portray it to be.
Before I became a Facilities Operations Manager, I was a Master Electrician and have 30 years experience in the electrical field.
Thank you for your time.
Brian Britain | Operations Manager
PM Realty Group
JPMChase Account l Western Region
201 N. Central Ave. I MC: AZ1-3023
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
O 602-221-1375 I C 602-293-7638 I F 602-221-1077