1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the Siemens BE220 20-Amp Double Pole Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Circuit Breaker. The BE220 is designed to provide ground fault protection for electrical circuits, enhancing safety by quickly interrupting power when a ground fault is detected. It is a panel board mounted, non-interchangeable trip 30mA ground-fault, molded case circuit breaker.
Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any installation or operation. Retain this manual for future reference.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, FIRE, OR EXPLOSION.
- Installation and servicing of this circuit breaker must be performed by qualified electrical personnel only.
- Always disconnect power at the main service panel before working on electrical circuits or equipment.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with electrical systems.
- Verify all connections are secure and properly torqued according to local electrical codes and manufacturer specifications.
- Do not use this device if it appears damaged.
- This GFCI circuit breaker is intended for use in listed enclosures only.
3. Product Features
- Model: BE220
- Current Rating: 20 Amps
- Voltage: 120/240 Volts
- Number of Poles: Double Pole
- Interrupting Rating: 10KAIC
- Ground Fault Trip Level: 30mA
- Mounting Type: Bolt-On Mount, Panel Board Mounting
- Certification: UL Listed
- Type: BLE Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
- Integrated TEST button for verifying GFCI function.
4. Installation and Setup
The Siemens BE220 GFCI circuit breaker is designed for bolt-on mounting in compatible Siemens panel boards. All installation must comply with national and local electrical codes.
4.1 Pre-Installation Steps
- Disconnect Power: Ensure the main power supply to the electrical panel is completely turned OFF at the utility meter or main disconnect. Verify with a voltage tester.
- Identify Panel: Confirm the electrical panel is compatible with Siemens bolt-on circuit breakers.
- Gather Tools: You will need a screwdriver, wire strippers, torque wrench, and a voltage tester.
4.2 Mounting the Circuit Breaker
The BE220 is a double-pole breaker, requiring two adjacent spaces in the panel board.
Figure 1: Siemens BE220 GFCI Circuit Breaker, showing the overall design and terminals.
- Position Breaker: Align the bolt-on clips of the BE220 with the bus bar stabs in the panel board.
- Secure Breaker: Firmly press the circuit breaker onto the bus bar stabs until it is securely seated and the bolt-on clips engage.
4.3 Wiring Connections
The BE220 requires connections for two hot (line/load) wires and a neutral wire. The white pigtail wire on the breaker must be connected to the panel's neutral bus bar.
Figure 2: Side view of the BE220, highlighting the white neutral pigtail wire for connection to the panel's neutral bus.
- Connect Neutral Pigtail: Connect the white pigtail wire from the BE220 to the neutral bus bar in the panel. Ensure a tight connection.
- Connect Load Wires: Connect the two load wires (from the circuit being protected) to the appropriate terminals on the bottom of the circuit breaker. These terminals are typically labeled 'LOAD POWER' and 'LOAD NEUTRAL' or similar.
- Torque Connections: Tighten all terminal screws to the torque specifications provided on the circuit breaker label or in the panel board documentation. Over-tightening or under-tightening can lead to hazards.
- Verify Connections: Double-check all wiring for correct placement and secure connections.
4.4 Post-Installation
- Restore Power: Close the panel cover and restore power to the main service panel.
- Test Breaker: Perform the operational test as described in Section 5.2.
5. Operation
5.1 Turning ON/OFF
The BE220 operates like a standard circuit breaker. To turn the circuit ON, push the handle firmly to the 'ON' position. To turn the circuit OFF, push the handle firmly to the 'OFF' position.
5.2 GFCI Test Function
The GFCI circuit breaker includes a 'TEST' button to verify its ground fault protection function. This test should be performed monthly.
Figure 3: Front view of the BE220, clearly showing the red 'TEST' button for GFCI functionality verification.
- Ensure the circuit breaker is in the 'ON' position.
- Press the 'TEST' button (red button) firmly.
- The circuit breaker handle should immediately move to the 'TRIPPED' (center) position, and power to the circuit should be interrupted.
- To restore power, push the handle completely to the 'OFF' position, then firmly to the 'ON' position.
- If the breaker does not trip when the 'TEST' button is pressed, the GFCI may be faulty or improperly wired. Discontinue use and contact a qualified electrician.
6. Maintenance
The Siemens BE220 GFCI circuit breaker requires minimal maintenance. The primary maintenance task is the monthly GFCI test as described in Section 5.2. This ensures the ground fault protection mechanism is functioning correctly.
- Monthly Test: Perform the GFCI test monthly to confirm proper operation.
- Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the circuit breaker for any signs of physical damage, discoloration, or loose connections. If any issues are observed, disconnect power and consult a qualified electrician.
- Cleaning: Ensure the area around the circuit breaker within the panel is kept clean and free of dust or debris. Do not use liquids for cleaning inside the electrical panel.
7. Troubleshooting
If your Siemens BE220 GFCI circuit breaker trips, it indicates a potential electrical issue on the protected circuit. Do not simply reset the breaker without investigating the cause.
7.1 Breaker Trips Frequently
- Ground Fault: The most common reason for a GFCI to trip is a ground fault. This occurs when electricity flows through an unintended path to the ground, such as through water or a person.
- Overload: While primarily a ground fault device, an overload (too many devices drawing power on the circuit) can also cause a trip.
- Short Circuit: A direct connection between hot and neutral wires, or hot and ground wires, can cause a trip.
- Faulty Appliance: An appliance connected to the circuit may have an internal fault causing the GFCI to trip. Unplug all appliances from the circuit and reset the breaker. If it holds, plug in appliances one by one to identify the faulty one.
- Damaged Wiring: Inspect visible wiring for cuts, pinches, or damage.
- Moisture: Water ingress into outlets, junction boxes, or appliances can cause ground faults.
7.2 Resetting a Tripped Breaker
- Identify Cause: Attempt to identify and correct the reason for the trip.
- Full OFF: Push the circuit breaker handle completely to the 'OFF' position. You may feel a click.
- Full ON: Firmly push the handle to the 'ON' position.
- If the breaker immediately trips again, do not attempt to reset it further. Contact a qualified electrician to diagnose and repair the issue.
8. Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | SIEMENS |
| Model Number | BE220 |
| Current Rating | 20 Amps |
| Voltage | 120/240 Volts |
| Number of Poles | 2 (Double Pole) |
| Circuit Breaker Type | GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) |
| Interrupting Rating | 10KAIC |
| Ground Fault Trip Level | 30mA |
| Mounting Type | Bolt-On Mount |
| Item Weight | 13.6 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 4 x 2 inches |
| UL Listed | Yes |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support regarding your Siemens BE220 GFCI Circuit Breaker, please refer to the official Siemens website or contact Siemens customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
Siemens Customer Support: Please visit the official Siemens website for contact details and support resources.
