Overcurrent Protection Devices Condition

The term Overcurrent Protection Devices refers to the breakers and/or fuses installed in an electrical panel. The design of the device is used to protect the system from fires by preventing from shorts, overloading circuits, etc.

Breaker double tapped: There are two or more wires that are connected to one breaker in the panel. This condition, typically called a double tap, can add to the load of the affected electrical circuit and possibly cause overloading, tripping, or arcing at the breaker. Current standards require circuits to be independently protected with separate breakers. Recommend a licensed electrician evaluate and properly separate circuits if needed.

Many brands of breakers: There are more than one brand of breakers installed that are different from the manufacture brand of the panel. While there are no indications of a problem, recommend further evaluation and correcting if necessary.

FP/Zinsco/GTE/Sylvania Breakers: Due to the manufacturer of electrical panel, and the history of problems, unable to determine if the breakers are in acceptable condition. The system should be evaluated by an electrician to determine if the breakers are functioning correctly. https://pennaelectric.com/electrician-blog/unsafe-outdated-electrical-panels/

GFCI Breaker did not trip when tested: The GFCI breaker did not trip when tested. Recommend repair.

AFCI Breaker did not trip when tested: The AFCI breaker did not trip when tested. Recommend repair.

Corrosion/rust on breakers: There is corrosion or rust observed on the breakers. Recommend further evaluation and repair.

Wiring/breaker not sized: The service rating of the breaker and the size of the installed wiring may not be compatible. Recommend an electrician evaluate and repair.

Breaker tripped during test: The breaker is tripping during testing. Recommend further evaluation of the breaker and associated wiring and repair as needed.

Double breaker missing bridge: The double breaker is missing the bridge. Recommend repair. 

Wire not secure in the breaker: The electrical wire is not secure in the breaker. Recommend repair.

Classified brand breakers- Square D: Classified brand breakers are observed within the panel. Being a Square D brand panel, this poses a hazard. It is recommended to have a qualified person replace the breakers with Square D type breakers. Here is a link for more information.  https://inspectapedia.com/electric/Classified_Breaker_Warning.php

Loose Breaker: A circuit breaker is loose in the panel. Recommend repair.

Breaker found tripped: There is a breaker found tripped. The breaker was not reset. Recommend consulting the seller to determine the purpose and/or have a qualified contractor further evaluate.