Hi Everyone, I’m fairly new, but the other day I spoke to a residential electrician and he mentioned that Square D (and perhaps another manufacturer) makes a breaker that can withstand the additional amperage that comes with a double tap. Has anyone else encountered a breaker like this? If so, does this mean that InterNACHI’s curriculum needs to be revised?
Yes, certain types of Square D and Cutler-Hammer Breakers do allow two conductors.
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Terrific, thank you!
To be sure, how can you tell if they can allow two conductors or not? Doe it say on them?
thank you 
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The photos are Square D. The difference with Cutler Hammer is if they have metal feet or plastic feet.
The metal claw foot CH breaker does not allow two conductors. It is the plastic foot CH breaker with an oval pressure plate connection point that allows two.
Please forgive me for my ignorance, but when you say “feet”, how do you mean?
Morning, Slava. You ask a fundamental question all inspectors should turn to for guidance, manufacturing labels, how to identify and read them. CSA and UL.
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Some circuit breakers are listed for two conductors within a specific size range. There is no “additional amperage” associated with the connection of more than one conductor to the circuit breaker. The current may be all on one conductor or may be somehow divided on the two conductors.
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Newer square D breakers allowed two copper wires for each breaker under a screw but they have to be designated that way
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Go to Home Depot, Lowes, Menards or Ace Hardware … In the electrical section LOOK at the breakers
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In addition to the fine comments listed above the conductors should be the same AWG of wiring to ensure they are both tightened to the proper torque.
Best regards,
Zach Richards
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So let’s get one thing straight. Just because a breaker (Square D etc…) can handle two connections this is certainly not a recommended practice. If this was the case then the NEC would allow for half the breakers because you could double up everything.
Jeff, are these your photos?
It’s perfectly code complaint to land two conductors on a single circuit breaker that is designed and listed for two conductors. How would you know that the circuits were “doubled up” if there are two conductors?
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