Short circuit detector? I need help

7 years ago

I’m battling a MWBC with a fault hidden somewhere. This circuit has 2 breakers each of which can operate separately but not together. Smelled some brief burning weeks ago but just can not find the problem. I’m at the point however of beginning to understand the colors and wire patterns. I need someone to explain that in great, simple detail so it finally clicks in my head and I‘m good to track down that fault.

If that doesn’t happen Is there a fault detector device I can buy? Got to be done with this.

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Comments (5)

Ron Natalie
7 years ago
No such device exists.

Did a breaker trip in this situation? If not there's not likely a short circuit.

There are things that can cause burning short of a short circuit. This is why Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters were mandated. You could install one of these if you are concerned.

Once a breaker (or AFCI) is tripping, it's a matter of inspection and dividing the circuit to find the cause.
gallagher0001 thanked Ron Natalie
HU-955941711
7 years ago
If the breakers trip when both are turned on, I'd open each junction box, starting closest to the panel, to find where both hot legs are connected to the same device. Possibly a duplex receptacle where the hot side connector between the two singles is not broken out.
gallagher0001 thanked HU-955941711
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kudzu9
7 years ago
I think it's time call in an electrician. With all due respect, I don't think that, if you're "beginning to understand the colors and wire patterns," you have enough knowledge to safely assess this and resolve it. I'm all for DIY, except when it comes to things that are potentialy life-threatening and/or a fire hazard.
gallagher0001 thanked kudzu9
User
7 years ago
Yeah, someone likely connected the "hot side connector" two weeks ago.

I don't think so.

Do think an Electrician is needed to help you!
gallagher0001 thanked User
DavidR
7 years ago
It sounds like what you really need is a good introduction to basic electrical circuits. Too bad recent editions of Wiring Simplified have junked those essential basics. You won't find what you need on Youtube. I suggest tha you hit the public library and see what you can find there. If you don't have time to read a couple of books on basic electrical principles, and a lot of busy working folks don't, then I'll have to agree with the above posters who think you should call in a pro.