Arc-fault circuit interrupter: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 16:40, 31 December 2023

Revision as of 16:41, 31 December 2023

Line 16:

==Operating principle==

The [[electronics]] inside an AFCI breaker detect electrical current alternating at characteristic frequencies, usually around 100&nbsp;kHz, known to be associated with wire arcing, which are sustained for more than a few milliseconds. A ''combination AFCI breaker'' provides protection against parallel arcing (line to neutral), series arcing (a loose, broken, or otherwise high resistance segment in a single line), ground arcing (from line or neutral to ground), overload, and short circuit. The AFCI will open the circuit if dangerous arcing is detected.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Inspector |first=Hubert Miles {{!}} Licensed Home |last2=CMI |last3=CPI |date=2023-06-22 |title=What is CAFCI: The Next Generation of Circuit Protection |url=https://homeinspectioninsider.com/cafci/ |access-date=2023-12-31 |website=homeinspectioninsider.com |language=en-us}}</ref>

When installed as the first outlet on a branch circuit, AFCI receptacles provide series arc protection for the entire branch circuit. They also provide parallel arc protection for the branch circuit starting at the AFCI receptacle. Unlike AFCI breakers, AFCI receptacles may be used on any wiring system regardless of the panel.

Line 22:

==Electrical code requirements==

===US and Canada===

Starting with the 1999 version of the ''National Electrical Code'' in the United States, and the 2002 version of the ''Canadian Electrical Code'' in Canada, the national codes require AFCIs in all circuits that feed outlets in bedrooms of dwelling units. As of the 2014 NEC, AFCI protection is required on all branch circuits supplying outlets or devices installed in dwelling unit kitchens, along with the 2008 NEC additions of family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas, and similar rooms and areas.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Inspector |first=Hubert Miles {{!}} Licensed Home |last2=CMI |last3=CPI |date=2019-07-07 |title=How Arc Fault Breakers (AFCI) Work? A Safety Guide |url=https://homeinspectioninsider.com/how-arc-fault-breakers-work/ |access-date=2023-12-31 |website=homeinspectioninsider.com |language=en-us}}</ref> They are also required in dormitory units. This requirement may be accomplished by using a "combination type" breaker—a specific kind of circuit-breaker defined by [[Underwriters Laboratories|UL]] 1699—in the breaker panel that provides combined arc-fault and [[overcurrent]] protection or by using an AFCI receptacle for modifications/extensions, as replacement receptacles or in new construction, at the first outlet on the branch. Not all U.S. jurisdictions have adopted the NEC's AFCI requirements so it is important to check local code requirements.

The AFCI is intended to prevent fire from arcs. AFCI circuit breakers are designed to meet one of two standards as specified by UL 1699: "branch" type or "combination" type (note: the Canadian Electrical Code uses different terminology but similar technical requirements). A branch type AFCI trips on 75 amperes of arcing current from the line wire to either the neutral or ground wire. A combination type adds series arcing detection to branch type performance. Combination type AFCIs trip on 5 amperes of series arcing.