Unlike a double-pole breaker, which serves a single 240-volt circuit, a tandem serves two 120-volt circuits; it cannot be used to supply 240 volts to a single circuit.

Standard, Double-Pole Circuit Breaker Double-pole breakers work the same way as single-pole breakers, but they protect circuits that power larger equipment, like air conditioners, ranges and dryers.

It also directs the flow of electricity to various circuits throughout the home, which are each controlled with a single-pole or double-pole circuit breaker, so you can isolate certain parts of ...