No double pole breaker for a 250v outlet that I can see?

Question

I am trying to step down a 250v outlet (Was used for a large AC unit, to a regular 115v, to be used with a "modern" energy efficient AC unit. I have the outlet, and wiring skills, but my breaker box is not labeled. (Just bought this house late last year).

From what ive put together, there should be a double pole breaker (A "double wide" breaker taking up 2 spots with the switches bridged with a metal cage or something), but theres only 2 in the box. One for my dryer, and the main power breaker.

Is it possible to have a single breaker as a double pole breaker? These are all older circuit breakers too.


(That brings me to another question)
Can I buy (same amp rated) replacement breakers at Lowes or such a store, and replace all these?

Answer 1

It is possible that the AC outlet was wired on 2 single poles instead of the double. But this is illegal and unsafe. You should be able to test which breaker controls the AC outlet with a simple tester. See which breaker shuts the outlet off. It is also possible that the outlet was wired into the dryer double breaker, also illegal and unsafe. And yes, you can buy new breakers, but they must be the same brand or they will not fit the panel.

Answer 2

If you have a 240V circuit in the US, you DO have a double pole breaker. If you can't VISUALLY identify it, you NEED professional help to install a proper circuit. If you THINK it is possible to 'step down' a 240V circuit to 120V, you don't know HALF of what you THINK you know.

Answer 3

Since you have some electrical experience then the best place to start is in the power panel and identify and label every circuit in the panel. You need to do this anyway for future convenience. Once you have the panel directory done you should be able to locate where the power to the old AC is located. From the description you give I agree with what the breaker should look like. Maybe the old AC was tapped off the dryer or the range circuit and then you need to make some changes. Also get a book on basic house wiring so you have a more comprehensive understanding of what will be required. From the questions you bring up it is apparent that you need more experience even from a book before you do too much more in this project.