Can I add three Siemens single pole 15amp breakers to my maxed out panel for a 40amp stove and additional outlets, or is that too much?
Asked by Stephanie Marshall 
6 months ago
Last Updated: June 18, 2024
Hey Electricians! Quick question about Siemens breakers and how many can fit in a box. My panel is maxed out right now, but I’m adding an electrical stove (40amp) and more outlets in the kitchen. I know I’ll need a new panel eventually, probably a 200amp for an HVAC system. But for now, can I add THREE Siemens single pole 15amp breakers to make room for the 40amp and 20amp breakers I need? It’s just a temporary fix, but I want to make sure it’s safe for the panel. It’s a 100amp panel in NY, I’ve attached a photo for reference. Thanks in advance!
Just grab some tandem breakers. They’ll help you free up some room.
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Remember to separate the neutral wires
They might not be the perfect choice, but they should work
Determining whether you can add this load depends on the current load on the panel. If it’s not too heavy, you can install tandem breakers to create space for your new loads.
Hey , those Eaton br. Br tandem minis should do the trick. I do have some doubts about the current load though, but it seems to be mainly for general lighting and receptacles
Plus a dryer and a heater. He also mentioned a refrigerator and a microwave in another post.
You can see that it’s not carrying much load just by looking at it, there are only a few branch circuits.
Siemens breakers should be compatible, but make sure you’re using the right type of tandem breakers for your panel.
Agreed that the ones without the rejection clip are better.
Confirmed that the panel is rated for twins with the rejection clip in every position.
Mentioned that it’s hard to tell if the breaker has the slot on the buss with the cover on.
Suggested using Eaton BR instead of Siemens for replacing Crouse Hindes breakers.
The information is located on the sticker on the door
Steven oheenwhy are you informing me? I’m already aware, I didn’t create the post
Steven oheenthose panels contain Bryant breakers
Because you’re in agreement with him that Siemens breakers will fit, which is technically true, but that’s not the proper way to go about it. And it’s not difficult to acquire BR BREAKERS
Steven oheenI didn’t say Siemens breakers are suitable, I was just pointing out the tandems with the clips. And as mentioned by someone else, it’s temporary and even if he chooses Siemens just to use for now, technically it’s not right but it doesn’t pose a safety risk at all
Those won’t work… for no particular reason… it’s designed for standard twins …
Is it better to upgrade the existing box or install a secondary box for this project?
Not all panels can accommodate tandem breakers, so upgrading to 200 amps might be the better option despite the higher cost.
Adding the load to this panel should be okay, but it’s important to consider the size of the wire feeding it and the current fuse rating. That’s something to think about.
I used 6/3 wire for the 40amp oven and 12/2 for the kitchen outlets.
Have you thought about asking if anyone knows a licensed electrician in the area?
That’s awesome! What gauge wire is running to your electrical panel and what size is the overcurrent/short circuit protection?
I’m not entirely sure about . That’s all I know for now. Honestly, I don’t use a lot of power at the moment, just our dryer, LED lights, and sometimes the microwave and fridge. But I believe I’m within the limits of the panel.
As long as you feel good, that’s all that matters. 😂
In this situation, what’s powering that panel is actually more crucial than its rating.
To sum it up, you’ll be fine.
Said it’s a 100 amp main breaker, so it’s most likely #2 SE AL.
I think I would have to agree with , at least for the most part.
It seems like you have a #2 SEU with a 100 Amp main circuit.
It’s 2-3, see it in the photo.
Sorry, I couldn’t see the markings on the cable or where it ended.
Most likely, most likely.
It’s pretty clear this isn’t the right page for DIY projects.
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This is crazy! I wonder how much that set you back, haha.
I see shoes for $37 all over Florida!
‘s cost varies depending on the brand, ranging from $35 to $45. Investing in this will also help me save space. I need to install an EV charger at home to achieve this.
Hey , that’s not the one you’re looking for. You should be searching for an Eaton BR.
Confirmed that his panel is Eaton.
Clarified that the breaker posted is for a Schneider/Sq-D panel.
Et out of NY, that commuter tax is brutal!
You know, people are always praising your hard work and honesty. I have to agree – you’re the best! Thanks for making such a positive impact on my financial situation.
You should be good to go with tandem breakers. If you decide to upgrade, I suggest going with Square D instead of Siemens. In my opinion, they offer much better technology.
Consider hiring an electrician. Bryant produces tandem breakers and 2-pole tandems that are a perfect fit for this panel, unlike Siemens which are not designed for it.
Do you guys think this panel can handle tandems?
Hey Justin, make sure to take a good look before you respond.
Maybe consider hiring someone who knows what they’re doing. By the way, kitchen outlets should be on 2-20amp circuits
Nobody has brought up checking the amperage. Maybe he has unbalanced loads.
If your Main Circuit Breaker is rated for 100 amps, then your service wire should be sized for 100 amps (4AW or 2AW). If you upgrade to 200 amps, you will need to replace the service wire with a larger gauge (at least 2/0AW copper). Remember to replace the Feeder Line to the distribution panel as well.
Has anyone looked at the panel cover? It’s rated for tandems, type MP which I think are Siemens. You all can argue all you want, but I’d recommend going to the store for some tandems. Maybe get 1 quad and a couple of tandems. Check the phasing. And Bob’s your uncle. 🙂
I totally agree. So many people talk without really knowing what they’re talking about.
Most people on here don’t read ‘s posts. I completely understand what you’re saying. No problem, unless this panel needs a recall.
You’re right – that’s .
The photo you snapped of the data tag on the panel’s inside sticker will show you what type of breakers are suitable.
Your panel seems to support tandem breakers. Using them could help you free up some space. I believe Eaton BR breakers are compatible with Crouse-Hines panels. They are usually easier to locate.
You should be okay with lightly loaded tandems.
Can you tell me how much load the feeder CB can handle according to Article 220? Check out Annex D for help with the calculations. It’s like having a full checkbook – you still need the funds to write the check and enough spare amps to add the breaker.
You’ll get a couple of break spaces with tandems.
So, like already said, you need to consider the size of the feeders and how much load you’re currently running at full capacity (when everything is pulling current). Then you have to add the new appliances (based on the nameplate) and the potential demand on the other circuit. Just remember the 80% rule for branch circuits and I think it’s 125% for the main disconnect…