Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCI) were written into electrical codes in 1999. When an AFCI detects a dangerous electric arc, it breaks the circuit. It also protects the entire circuit which includes the electrical panel, outlets, switches, the downstream wires that run through the walls, and anything that is plugged into the outlets. Read on to learn more.
All You Need to Know About AFCI
An AFCI was created to be the solution to the dozens of home fires that took place in the late 1980s. Over 40,000 annual fires are caused by electrical wiring and the majority of them could have been avoided. Electrical fires usually start behind the walls which makes them more difficult to detect.
At first, the National Electrical Code required that AFCIs be installed in bedrooms and new homes. In 2014, they required that living rooms, sunrooms, kitchens, hallways, closets, and laundry rooms should also have them. Hotels, motels, and college dormitories are also included in the revised code. While conventional circuit breakers only respond to overloads and short circuits, AFCIs identify bad arcs on circuits. Circuit breakers simply protect the insulation on a wire from overload.
Most people find that AFCIs trip often, and they consider this a nuisance. However, it’s important to understand that though they tend to trip often, they are safety trips and working the way they are supposed to.
Looking for a White Marsh Electrician?
The electricians at Tim Kyle Electric will keep your home safe by installing AFCIs in all rooms. If you have a home without arc fault protection, then you need to install these breakers pronto in order to prevent electrical fires and other dangers. Contact us today.