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ARC FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER
AFCI – effective in 2002 this type of circuit breaker was first required only in residential bedrooms. It's now required for most circuits in homes. AFCI shuts down power in a fraction of a second when hazardous condition exists.
All 120-volt, single phase, 15 and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dinning rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter combination type.
AFCI – effective in 2002 this type of circuit breaker was first required only in residential bedrooms. It's now required for most circuits in homes. AFCI shuts down power in a fraction of a second when hazardous condition exists.
Top Causes of Arc Faults
- Loose or improper connections, such as electrical wires to outlets or switches
- Frayed appliance or extension cords
- Pinched or pierced wire insulation, such as a wire inside a wall nipped by a nail or a chair leg sitting on an extension cord
- Cracked wire insulation stemming from age, heat, corrosion, or bending stress
- Overheated wires or cords
- Damaged electrical appliances
- Electrical wire insulation chewed by rodents
GFCI protects people from electric shock. AFCI protects against electrical fire. Both together provide complete protection for the system.
