Electrical – electrical code for number of wires in a breaker

circuit breakercode-complianceelectrical

US, Georgia
I am adding some new ciruits to add some additional outlets. The closest place is to run a wire to the main panel box.

My question is, can I connect more than one wire to a breaker and still meet code or do I need to get a new breaker. Both the wires and plugs are the same rating as the breaker – 15 amp.

Making the assumption that only one wire can be under each screw in the breaker, can I make a junction in the panel box? IE, one wire to breaker, but two wires to a wire nut connecting them together, or does the junction need to be in a separate box?

Best Answer

There should only be one wire per screw terminal. One of my wiring books says that some local codes allow splices inside a service panel, and some don't, so you should check with your local authority to make sure it's OK in your area.

However, regular circuit breakers are only a few dollars, so even if it's allowed in your area, my advice would be to just install the extra breakers for the new circuits.