Need some electrical panel help on breaker conversion

[sailor55330]

Hey guys-

Been a while and I hope everyone is well. Seems like I remember someone on here having some good electrical knowledge. I need to add an outdoor circuit, which will involve installing a new breaker, running new 12g wire to an outdoor rated weatherproof receptacle with a GFCI---I get that part as I've added breakers before. BUT, here's my question

My panel is currently full, both in breaker slots and neutral bar/ground slots. However, I do have an unused double pole 50amp breaker (I suspect it is 240v that was once used for a range in the kitchen that was long ago converted to gas, so no need for that circuit any more. I've traced the wires and can confirm that it''s been terminated in a junction box under the kitchen in the basement, not far from the panel.

Here's my question- can I remove that double pole 50a breaker and then use the slots in the panel to create 2 new separate 20a circuits on single poles? I think in theory I can because it not only frees up the slots on the panel for the breaker, but it should also free up slots on my bus bar. I think code now requires an arc/gfci breaker.

Am I on the right track here or off base. I'm not worried about the install of the breaker, just not sure about the conversion from double to single pole. I could go the route of a sub panel, but that seems overkill for 1 circuit. Any help or feedback is appreciated

Thanks guys

[Titaniumboy]

There is no problem with removing the existing 2-pole breaker and installing a single pole breaker in its place. You would need to install a filler plate to cover up the open breaker space.

[Kate]

"There is no problem with . . ."

That or add a double 20 (which is what I did). Then you'll have an extra breaker in case you need it in the future. (Be sure to buy a breaker that's compatible with your panel.) You can also pull the 12ga from an existing receptacle (which I've also done), depending what else is in that circuit.

Will any of the 12ga be exposed to the elements or underground? If so, use the appropriate cable.

[sailor55330]

"There is no problem with . . ."

That or add a double 20 (which is what I did). Then you'll have an extra breaker in case you need it in the future. (Be sure to buy a breaker that's compatible with your panel.) You can also pull the 12ga from an existing receptacle (which I've also done), depending what else is in that circuit.

Will any of the 12ga be exposed to the elements or underground? If so, use the appropriate cable.

Thanks to all. I am inclined to put 2 separate single pole 20a breakers in the panel--hoping I can find the breakers as the panel is pretty old. That way I have an extra circuit should I need something.

My panel and existing circuits are getting pretty load-heavy. The only thing on this circuit will be a single outdoor receptacle for low voltage lights--well the transformer. The wire will go from the panel to a weatherproof outlet box mounted on the house, so I don't think I need the all weather/direct bury cable as it's never going to be truly "exposed" to the elements.......or do I? The run from the panel to the outlet is only about 10ft so cost is no issue.

THanks

[Kate]

". . . the panel is pretty old." "My panel and existing circuits are getting pretty load-heavy."

You might consider installing a new panel (which I've also done) with additional slots. They're not that expensive, and it's definitely DIY.

Sounds like you're right about not needing the weatherproof cable. It's not only more expensive, it's more of a hassle to work with.