QO Single Pole Miniature Tandem Circuit Breaker (120/240V, 20A)

The Square D QO2020 is a single pole miniature tandem circuit breaker rated for 20 amps at 120/240V, designed to protect two separate 1-pole circuits while occupying just one space in your QO load center. This plug-in breaker delivers overload and short-circuit protection with a 10 kA interrupt rating at 120/240V AC 50/60 Hz, meeting UL and CSA certification standards. Built by Schneider Electric for residential and light commercial applications, it allows electricians to maximize panel capacity without upgrading to a larger enclosure. The HACR rating confirms compatibility with heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment. This tandem design solves the common problem of running out of panel space when you need to add circuits.

• Tandem Single Pole Design: Houses two independent 20-amp, 1-pole circuits in a single breaker space, allowing you to double your circuit capacity in panels where space is limited without replacing the entire load center.
• Plug-In Mounting: Installs directly onto the panel bus bar without bolts or screws, cutting installation time and making future service or replacement faster than bolt-on designs.
• 10 kA Interrupt Rating: Provides protection against short-circuits up to 10,000 amps at 120/240V AC 50/60 Hz, safeguarding both your wiring and connected equipment from electrical faults.
• Box Lug Electrical Connection: Accepts AWG 14 through AWG 8 copper or aluminum wire in box-style terminals, giving you flexibility in wire sizing for different circuit loads.
• UL Listed and CSA Certified: Meets North American safety and performance standards, ensuring code compliance and reliable operation in residential and commercial installations.
• HACR Rated: Approved for use with heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment, making it suitable for protecting HVAC circuits that require specialized breaker ratings.
• 104°F Operating Temperature: Designed to function reliably at ambient temperatures up to 104°F (40°C), maintaining protection even in hot attic or utility room installations.

This tandem breaker is compatible only with Square D QO load centers that are specifically designed to accept tandem breakers. Not all QO panel spaces permit tandem installations, so verify your panel documentation or labeling before purchase. The breaker requires a QO series panel with plug-in bus bar configuration. It accepts AWG 14 to AWG 8 copper or aluminum conductors in its box lug terminals.

The QO2020 uses a plug-in mounting system that connects directly to the panel bus bar. Install by aligning the breaker with the panel slot and pressing firmly until it seats onto the bus connection. Wire connections are made via box lugs that accommodate AWG 14 through AWG 8 wire. This breaker operates in ambient temperatures up to 104°F (40°C). No ongoing maintenance is required under normal operating conditions.

A: Yes, Square D manufactures tandem breakers for both their QO and Homeline panel series. The QO2020 is a single pole tandem breaker in the QO line, rated for 20 amps and designed to fit one space in compatible QO load centers. This plug-in breaker provides two independent 1-pole circuits in a single breaker position, allowing you to add circuits without upgrading your panel.

A: A tandem 20 amp breaker provides overcurrent protection for two separate 20-amp, 120V circuits while occupying just one space in your electrical panel. Common applications include adding circuits for outlets, lighting, or small appliances when your panel is full. Each pole operates independently and can protect different circuits, such as a bedroom outlet circuit and a bathroom lighting circuit, both at 20 amps.