Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are advanced safety devices that help prevent electrical fires before they have a chance to start.

AFCI Facts

• Many home electrical fires are started by arcing faults.
• Arcing faults happen when electrical wiring becomes damaged, stressed, overheated or worn.
• Wiring inside the wall can be damaged by nails, screws, or drill bits that have been used on the wall – for example, when hanging pictures.
• The wiring inside extension and electrical cords can become damaged when pinched by heavy furniture, snug doorways, or when staples used to hold them cut or pinch the cord’s insulation.
• Placing extension cords inside walls or under carpets can cause them to overheat, which could also cause an arc fault.
• AFCIs are advanced circuit breakers that replace the standard breakers in your home’s electrical service panel.
• AFCIs detect hazardous arcing conditions and shut down the electricity before a fire can start.
• The current edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that AFCIs be installed in the bedrooms and living areas of all newly constructed homes.
• Standard circuit breakers in existing homes can easily be upgraded to AFCIs.
• AFCIs should be installed by a licensed, qualified electrician.
• Once installed, AFCIs need to be tested every month to ensure they are working properly.

AFCI Questions & Answers

How do I know if I have AFCIs installed in my home?

Open your home electrical service panel and look at your circuit breakers. Do your breakers have a TEST button on them? Both AFCI and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) breakers have TEST buttons, but standard breakers do not. If you see the TEST button, read the sticker attached to the breaker to find out if it is an AFCI or GFCI breaker.

I have seen AFCI testing devices sold in stores. Are they more reliable than the “test” button on the AFCI?

The TEST button on the AFCI is the best way to make sure your AFCIs are working properly. Instruments sold as AFCI “indicators” or “testers” may not work with all types or brands of AFCIs.

What’s the difference between an AFCI and GFCI?

GFCIs are designed to protect people from electric shock. AFCIs protect against electrical caused by dangerous arcing faults.

Why do different states have different requirements for AFCIs?

Although AFCI requirements have been included in the National Electrical Code (NEC) since the 2005 edition, each state has the discretion to adopt the NEC as a whole or in part, and the adoption process differs in each state. Check with your state to find out what edition of the NEC is currently being used and whether the most current AFCI requirements were included in the adoption.