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  1. #1
    jimmy c's Avatar
    jimmy c Guest

    Default Panel Double Tapped ground

    Recently i have run into a problem with a panel where quite a few of the grounds and neutrals are shared. I was told to fix the problem, i can wire nut together the grounds before the bus bar and do a pig tail to the bus bar. I am just trying to confirm that it is ok to put wire nuts in the breaker box to clear up the double tap problem

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  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jul 2010
    Location
    Wisconsin
    Posts
    274

    Default Re: Panel Double Tapped ground

    Yes, you can use wire nuts to extend the conductors.

    You might want to check the installation label in the panel, if it is available, inside on the side or on the back of the panel cover. Some panels allow grounds to share if they are the same wire size and the label will tell you this, but you will have to isolate the neutrals. So, depending on your panel and layout you might be able to rearrange things without using wire nuts.

    Is adding a ground bar an option?


  3. #3
    jimmy c's Avatar
    jimmy c Guest

    Default Re: Panel Double Tapped ground

    We decided to go ahead and fix her today.



    It had quite a few twins, we went hunting for a neutral bar and most of everything we found wasn't quite suitable so we picked up a similar breaker that was slightly bigger and did some modifications

    Here is the result, hope it is acceptable




  4. #4
    Join Date
    Jul 2010
    Location
    Wisconsin
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    274

    Default Re: Panel Double Tapped ground

    I’m assuming a few things, such as this being a sub-panel inside the same building.

    Am I correct that the 8th ground wire down is the equipment grounding conductor? If not, you have an issue.

    It looks like the ground bar is not bonded to the panel, meaning the bar is floating and the panel itself is not grounded.


  5. #5
    Join Date
    Jul 2008
    Location
    Snowbird (this means I'm retired and migrate between locations), FL/MI
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    4,086

    Default Re: Panel Double Tapped ground

    Not alright. MLO panel not appropriate for application.This panel is apparently mfg prior to 2005, and is being used as a L&APB (distribution), even if it is only panelboard in the occupancy. To begin with it requires a 2P Main to be used in this manner (All circuits are 125V 15 & 20 amp SP). It is not properly series protected or current limited as per its listing, labeling and application (per vintage). A properly sized ECG bonding conductor does not appear to be present (plastic feeder raceway), lug for same (ECG from feeder) needs to be installed.

    Modern (CTL) panelboards are equipped with sufficient number of grounded terminals to the maximum number of poles permitted to be installed (12 plus feeder conductor). Thus I am suspect this MLO panel was not approved to support "twins", wafers, half-size, tandems or cheaters. Unaware of GE classifed use.

    Last edited by H.G. Watson, Sr.; 12-26-2012 at 09:09 AM.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Location
    Bennett (Denver metro), Colorado
    Posts
    1,461

    Default Re: Panel Double Tapped ground

    I'll interpret Mr. Watson's commentary for you into the common tongue.

    Hire a licensed electrician immediately.

    You're welcome.

    If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice.

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