I have a home electrical circuit question?

Question

I have an older home that was remodeled by the previous owner. Frequently, it requires me to shut off two circuit breakers in my fuse box in order to shut off a single outlet/light/device that I am looking to shut off. When either of the two circuit breakers is on, the outlet/light works. I am assuming that the power from each of the circuit breakers is joined together somewhere before it reaches my outlet/light. Does that make sense? I have never seen that before. What might be the purpose of that? Is there any danger in it? Thanks.

Answer 1

If you have two breakers in a single circuit then that means you could be in danger if you work on it. I would open the DB cover to see if maybe there was some bridge pieces on the bottom end. At my sisters house they wired it in series and it caused some problems.

You can easily check it as it should work like a family tree. It all starts on the incomer and then splits up from there. On the branches nothing should be connected across. You can do that visually and by switching off brakers and testing.

Answer 2

It is not a good situation. Sounds like there are two power sources feeding the same circuit. They must both be fed from the same side of the breaker box, or it would not work at all. You should be very careful if you are not proficient with electrical work. May not be an easy problem to repair.

Answer 3

Well maybe, maybe not.

Can you describe the situation a bit more?

For example one CB may be a source for a three way circuit, the second could be for a set of outlets. Both of these circuits could be properly wired and at the same time the connections could be in the same jct box. (not connected together however, just present int he same box) I personally would not do this. But anyway tell us more about what is on or off given EACH CB.

Regards,

Eric

Answer 4

This doesn't really pose any danger,as long these two circuits remain on the same phase.This is a easy fix,you know the two exact CB to turn off to kill the power right?All you need to do is put both wires on one Circuit breaker.This isnt really the right way to do it,but for safety sake.Unless you can find where these two circuits are tied together at the above is the safest way to fix this problem.

Answer 5

It was done this way because the previous owner didn't know what the heck he was doing.  Unfortunately you'll need to call a professional to come and figure this out, as well as look for any other possible problems from the DIY electrician.

The scary thing is, that guy is probably on here giving out electrical advice to unsuspecting homeowners!!!