Converting two 20 amp circuit breakers to one 40? I have a very well pump with two 20 amp breakers...
I have a very well pump with two 20 amp breakers on it, ( 240 V ), one of them go bad. Should I buy two more 20 amp breakers, or take one double 40 amp or double 20 amp? Or doesnt it matter? I've looked around, but couldnt find any answers, appreciation for your time and help.
Answers: You enjoy a 20 Ampere, 240 Volt Circuit for your well pump. Older version of the NEC would have allowed the separate breakers, but merely with approved fiddle with ties. You cannot replace the breaker with a 40 Ampere overcurrent device short replacing all of the branch circuit electric wiring with the appropriate size [#8 AWG, according to NEC Table 310.16 & Article 240.4(D), if it is copper next to an insulation value of 194¡ãF].
Have a qualified, licensed electrical contractor [see NEC Article 90.1 (A) & (C)] replace the two 20 Amp breakers beside a single, double pole breaker. DO NOT install a breaker that is not approved for use beside your panel! This will void the register. It is a MAJOR Code violation, and creates a really severe fire or arcing hazard. The panel businessman has provided a printed detail of the breakers approved for use in your panel. It is located on the cover, or inside of the door. If the businessman of your panel has gone out of business (or, be bought up by another company), your local electrical supply house will have a cross citation of approved, LISTED breakers for you to use. Never modify the breaker, or any part of the panel to brand name an overcurrent protection device fit. If it doesn't fit, it's not supposed to be there.
The answers are out nearby, you just own to know where to look. NEVER trust an answer you draw from off of the internet (even mine), other check the referenced sources. Then check with your local Electrical Inspector.
I've see many boxes next to 2 single breakers of whatever size, tied together next to a wire thru the holes within the two switch levers, (so that they both throw at one and the same time), that function just fine. The really proper route is to have a double breaker of doesn`t matter what amperage is needed, (in your case, 20 amps), to do the duty. If cost is prohibitive where you live, for the double 20 amp consequently just buy another single 20 and install it where on earth the one went desperate. I would, however, tie the two levers together next to a wire, only so you know those two go together. As long as they're right side by side, they will be one on respectively leg of the 220 line.