Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: bth0mas20, Location: Maryland
Asked on: Saturday, March 26, 2011 at 2:53 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:20 am EDT
Question: My plan was to install 6 outlets total in a garage. I used a 12/3 from the panel. Fed three outlets with one 20a circuit and other 3 with other circuit.I pigtailed the neutrals together from the panel and wire that feeds other 3 outlets.I connected the neutral to the load of first gfi to continue to other two outlet on the first circuit. I then installed another gfi for other circuit to feed 2 other outlets. So their is a total of 2 gfis and 4 duplex outlets split in 2 each 20amp circuits. I didnt have double pole 20a breaker at the time of install so I put in 2 single 20a breakers. I installed these single breakers one over top the other so their on seperate phases. When I turn on one breaker it holds until I turn on the other breaker then they both trip and vise versa.I was sure this is possible. Now that the sheetrock is up Im thinking I will either need to install Gfis in each outlet all to the line side or will a double pole 20a gfi breaker work and just install new outlets in place of the two gfi outlets?
Using Double Pole GFI Breaker
Yes, you can use a double pole 20A GFI breaker to resolve the problem. Replace the existing single 20A breakers with the double pole breaker. This will connect the two circuits on different phases and ensure they trip simultaneously, solving the tripping issue. However, note that this approach requires replacing the existing GFI outlets with regular duplex outlets.
Installing GFI Outlets on the Line Side
Alternatively, you can install GFI outlets on the line side of all six outlets. This means connecting the feed from the panel and the upstream side of the first outlet on each circuit to the line terminals of the GFI outlet. The remaining outlets on each circuit would then be connected to the load terminals of the GFI outlet. This approach ensures that all outlets are protected by GFI functionality.
Wiring ModificationsFor Double Pole GFI Breaker
Remove the existing single 20A breakers. Install the double pole 20A GFI breaker. Replace the two GFI outlets with regular duplex outlets.
For GFI Outlets on Line Side
Remove the existing GFI outlets. Connect the feed from the panel to the line terminals of the first GFI outlet on each circuit. Connect the upstream side of the first outlet to the line terminals of the GFI outlet.* Connect the remaining outlets on each circuit to the load terminals of the GFI outlet.
Caution: Ensure that all connections are tight and secure. The wiring modification should be performed by a qualified electrician. Flag for review