Quote:
Originally Posted by mikehinton
I disconnected the branch circuit at its junction box, then reset the breaker to "on." It tripped within about 60 seconds. I could hear the noise in the barn (where a couple of the junction boxes are), but didn't see any visible arcing (it was pitch black in there). When I was speculating about the supply lines, maybe I should have said that the 6 (or 8) gauge wires take the power from the 20 amp breaker in the sub panel to three separate outbuildings via underground PVC conduit. If those supply wires became compromised (e.g. if a gopher chewed through the PVC and wire insulation), that would also trip the breaker, wouldn't it? I'm hoping I don't have to dig up 150 feet of conduit to find the problem  |
I don,t understand how you can disconnect the breaker from its branch and still have it connected to something in another room? I mean actually disconnect the wire at the breaker NOT just turn something off.
It,s also rather unusual to have 3 seperate buildings supplied from the same breaker. You would need a splitter somewhere (or the illegal 3 wires under the same screw on a breaker)
If you are concerned about the integrity of the underground run Disconnect the loads at the first junction box in the barn where the wire comes out of the ground downstream from the breaker Then you will ONLY have the undeground wire connected to the breaker . If it then trips the problem is in the ground. You don,t dig you attach a rope to the wire and pull it out of the conduit. Repair or replace and pull it back in with the rope.
Also be sure to do this disconnecting with the power turned OFF to your breaker panel at it,s supply.
If this basic troubleshooting is this confused perhaps you should call a licensed electrician.