Understanding Double 20 Amp Breakers
1. What's the Big Deal About Double Breakers?
So, you're pondering the purpose of a double 20 amp breaker, huh? Let's clear up the mystery. It's not about doubling the amperage you can draw from a single circuit — that's a recipe for disaster, and definitely not recommended! Instead, a double 20 amp breaker, sometimes called a "double-pole" breaker, is designed to protect a circuit that requires 240 volts. Think of it like this: a standard single breaker protects a 120-volt circuit, while a double breaker protects a 240-volt circuit.
Why 240 volts, you ask? Well, some appliances and equipment need that extra oomph to operate efficiently. These are typically your heavy-duty power users like electric stoves, water heaters, clothes dryers, and some larger air conditioning units. Trying to run these devices on a standard 120-volt circuit would be like trying to power a rocket with a AA battery — it simply won't work!
Now, the "20 amp" part of the name refers to the amperage rating of each pole of the breaker. Since it's a double breaker, each pole can handle 20 amps. But remember, this isn't about doubling the available amperage for a single appliance; it's about providing the necessary voltage for appliances that require 240 volts. Safety is paramount here; never overload a circuit beyond its rated amperage. Breakers are designed to trip and cut off the power when the current exceeds the safe limit, preventing overheating and potential fires.
Think of it as providing two separate 120-volt lines, each carrying 20 amps, that are wired together to deliver 240 volts. The double breaker ensures that if there's a fault on either line, both lines are disconnected simultaneously. This is crucial for safety, as it prevents a potentially dangerous situation where one line is still energized while the other is faulty. It's like having a coordinated safety team instead of a lone ranger!
