Arc Fault Circuits

Electricians in most states are guided by the National Electrical Code.  In 1999, the electrical code began requiring arc fault circuit protection for circuits that supplied  bedroom outlets --a requirement that applied only to new homes.  Over time, the NEC has increased the requirments to the point that the 2008 code requires combination arc fault circuits in all new construction 15 or 20 amp outlets with the exception of laudry rooms, kitchen, bathrooms, unfinished basements and garages. So what does an arc fault circuit interruptor do, and should you have them installed in your home?

Currently, Connecticut is operating under the 2005 NEC, which requires the circuits only in bedrooms in new residences.  Some, however, feel that the cost of the this technology isn't worth the potential savings.  New homes already have a great deal of fire protection because of new types of materials being used. On the other hand, groups like the Electrical Safety Foundation International feel that AFCIs offer such protection that they recommend AFCIs be installed in existing buildings, not just new homes.

An electrical arc is not unusual and not necessarily bad--essentially it is jumping electricity which sometimes serves a function.  There are situations, however, where arcing is not intentional and can pose a serious fire hazard.  Old and frayed wiring is the worst offender, allowing electricity to arc along an unintended path. This causes an excessive amount of heat to build up around the wires, potentially allowing a fire to start.

It is estimated that the installation of ACFIs would cut electrical fires in half--which is why most national safety organizations like the NFPA (National Fire Prevention Agency) promote their 

For more information, download the National Electrical Manufacturers Association white paper "Using Advanced Technology to Reduce Electrical Fires".