Why is new outlet tripping breaker?

Question

I just installed a new standard 3 prong outlet in kitchen wall to replace an old dirty one. Everthing seemed straightforward. One black wire on top and one red wire on bottom of one side. One white wire on other side and the ground(green) on the bottom. I replaced everthing exactly as it was before. One odd thing i noticed when i started was that i had to turn off two breaker switches to cut all the power to the outlet. So i go back turn breakers on and the lower breaker keeps tripping, the top seems fine(doesn't trip) and both plugs in the outlet are working?I'm confused can someone help? Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Check your old outlet and see if the tab on the side that had the black and red wires(brass colored) was cut.If so then did you cut the one on the new outlet??Your outlet is being fed from 2 sources(breakers) if it was cut.http://www.selfhelpandmore.com/switch-ou...

Answer 2

When you have two receptacles, supplied by two different circuits, on the same yoke, you must break the bridge between the two ungrounded (hot) conductors; then, to meet new Code requirements, you must install a listed & approved handle tie between the two breakers.

The receptacles must also be installed so that when removing the device, the neutral conductor does not disconnect from the circuit wiring (the neutral must be pig tailed to the splice). If the neutral opens up, the other devices on both circuits will be energized at 240 Volts.

If you don't understand this, hire a qualified, licensed contractor to sort it out for you.

Answer 3

are you sure one of the wires isnt touching the backbox when you tighten the faceplate down