People in the United States sustain injuries or die every year from exposure to dangerous electrical fittings. That’s why it’s critical to have arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) outlets installed in your home. Learn more about AFCI outlets and start safeguarding your property today.
What Are AFCI Outlets?
AFCI outlets detect heat arcs in a home’s electrical supply network. Simply explained, if an appliance overheats, the AFCI circuit breaker will activate as a safety measure. Situations such as animals chewing on electrical wiring or someone hitting an electrical wire when hanging a painting can trigger this safety measure too. AFCIs detect this arcing in electricity, then shut down outlets before any serious damage occurs.
Are AFCI outlets the same as GFCI outlets? The answer is no. Unlike GFCI outlets, which have circuit breakers in the wall receptacles, AFCI protection is installed in the primary electrical service panel. Also, GFCIs mainly help to reduce electrical hazards in the presence of water. When an electrical current is flowing in an undesirable direction, the GCFI cuts the current to prevent electrocution, even if the outlets have not been electrically grounded.
Newer homes (those built after 2014) have an arc fault circuit breaker already installed within the breaker box. However, if you have a home built before that year, then you need one installed for extra protection against electrical fires and other dangers. AFCIs can be easily incorporated into your home’s main service panel. Today these outlets are required in any sleeping areas, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Electrician in Elkridge
Looking for an electrician in Maryland? Contact Tim Kyle Electric to learn more about AFCI protection and improve your home safety today.