Okay, Hal, let's break this down and get you squared away (pun intended!). You're right, overloaded neutral/ground bars are a common headache. Here's the lowdown on your situation, focusing on safety and code compliance

The Problem:
Multiple Conductors Under a Single Terminal

This is a big no-no. Terminals are only rated for the number and size of conductors the manufacturer specifies. Sticking multiple wires under one screw can lead to loose connections, overheating, and potentially arcing and fire. This is a Code violation.

Shared Neutral Bar for Neutrals and Grounds

While technically permissible in some older installations, it's best practice (and often required by modern codes) to separate neutrals and grounds. Mixing them on the same bar creates potential for stray neutral currents to flow on the grounding system, which can cause nuisance tripping of GFCI breakers and, in extreme cases, even electrical shock.

Your Options and the Best Practices


Adding a Ground Bar (The Preferred Solution)



Absolutely YES. This is the ideal solution and what I recommend. Purchase an appropriately sized ground bar (with enough terminals for your needs) and securely mount it to the metal enclosure of the panel. Make sure the panel is drilled properly and securely installed using the provided hardware. Bonding

Ensure the new ground bar is properly bonded to the panel enclosure. The panel should already be grounded via the grounding electrode conductor (GEC) coming in from your service entrance.

Move Grounds

Remove all the grounds from the neutral bar and land them on the new ground bar. This will free up spaces on the neutral bar.

Pigtailing

Pigtailing the grounds (as you suggested) to condense them onto the new bar is perfectly acceptable and a common practice. Use appropriately sized wire connectors (wire nuts, crimp connectors, etc.) listed for the number and size of conductors you're joining. Keep pigtails neat and organized. Don't create a bird's nest behind the panel. Match your conductors. If you have all #14 grounds, use #14 for the pigtails.2.

Pigtailing Neutrals (To Free Up Space, After Moving Grounds)



Only do this AFTER you've moved the grounds to a separate ground bar. You need to alleviate the overloading of the neutral bar before you can even consider adding new circuits. Pigtailing is acceptable to remove the double/triple taps. Use the same gauge as the existing neutrals. Verify Neutral Conductor Sizing

Make SURE you're not overloading the existing neutral conductors. This is especially important if any of the circuits are multi-wire branch circuits (shared neutral). The neutral must be sized to handle the anticipated load.

Important Considerations



Torque

Very important: Use a torque screwdriver/wrench to tighten all connections on the ground bar and neutral bar to the manufacturer's specifications. This ensures a solid, reliable connection and prevents future loosening.

Wire Fill

Don't exceed the fill capacity of the panel enclosure when adding circuits and pigtails. Too many wires can overheat.

NEC Code Compliance

Ensure all your work complies with the latest edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC) adopted in your jurisdiction. Local codes may have additional requirements.

GFCI/AFCI Protection

When adding new circuits, consider the NEC requirements for GFCI and AFCI protection in various locations (bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, etc.).

Labeling

Clearly label all new circuits at the panel.

Step-by-Step Guide1. Safety First

Turn off the main breaker to the panel before starting any work. Verify the panel is de-energized with a voltage tester.2.

Install Ground Bar

Mount the new ground bar to the panel enclosure and bond it properly.3.

Move Grounds

Carefully disconnect the ground wires from the neutral bar, one at a time, and land them on the new ground bar. Pigtail as needed.4.

Pigtail Neutrals

If necessary, pigtail neutrals to eliminate double/triple taps on the neutral bar.5.

Add New Circuits

Install the new breakers and wiring for your new circuits.6.

Connect Neutrals and Grounds

Connect the neutral and ground wires from the new circuits to the appropriate bars.7.

Torque All Connections

Use a torque screwdriver/wrench to tighten all connections to the manufacturer's specifications.8.

Neaten Wiring

Organize and secure the wiring within the panel for a neat and professional appearance.9.

Label Circuits

Clearly label all circuits at the panel.10.

Test

Turn the main breaker back on and test all circuits to ensure they are working correctly.

In Summary



Separate the grounds from the neutrals. This is the priority. Pigtailing is acceptable to consolidate grounds and, if absolutely necessary, neutrals (after you've corrected the ground issue). Follow the NEC and local codes.* Work safely! If you're not comfortable working with electricity, hire a qualified electrician.By following these guidelines, you'll create a safe, code-compliant, and reliable electrical installation. Good luck! Flag for review