Questions tagged [afci]
Arc-fault circuit interrupter are safety switches, similar to GFCI, that are used to detect electrical arcing and shutoff power to prevent the risk of fire.
184
questions
3
votes
1
answer
353
views
New AFCI/GFCI instantly trips when installed downstream from a GFCI - no obvious reasons
House is an older home from the 1890's, the wiring has all been replaced over the years, new panels, all that, but often decades apart so there are many generations of electrical all hooked together, ...
- 33
0
votes
1
answer
91
views
Is this a reasonable process for electrical troubleshooting and upgrade?
My dad lives in a home built in 1956 here in Maryland. The only upgrades to his electric has been having the fuse box converted to breakers back in the 90s.
He hit the light switch today and it ...
- 643
2
votes
3
answers
68
views
GFCI and AFCI outlet on circuit with refrigerator ....tripping after 6-8 hours after reset
Initially had a freezer and refrigerator freezer in garage on GFCI circuit, no problems for years. Then the freezer went out and the gfci circuit outlet was apparently damaged (and was 20 years old ...
- 31
5
votes
4
answers
1k
views
Does a laundry room circuit need GFCI protection?
I want to update the wiring in my laundry room but get confused about the requirements for this designated circuit. As I understand, Arc Fault protection breakers (AFCI) are now required for laundry ...
- 53
1
vote
1
answer
55
views
MWBC and double pole breaker amp allowance
i have 2 single pole 15 amp 120v circuit breakers with a shared neutral. i would like to replace the 2 single pole breakers with a 15 amp double pole afci breaker. will the double pole breaker protect ...
- 99
3
votes
1
answer
127
views
Testing outlet for grounding caused breaker to trip
I searched the forum and could not find something similar. Apologies if this has already been asked.
I was watching YouTube videos explaining how to test outlets and in the videos testing Hot to ...
- 33
2
votes
1
answer
162
views
Replacing breaker with GFCI/AFCI causes trip
As part of my basement finish, I need to replace a breaker with a AFCI.
This circuit currently services the new bedroom (outlets already there) and an outlet outside. One of the outlets is already ...
- 23
0
votes
4
answers
136
views
CAFCI breaker - found loose pigtail to neutral connection
I just had outlet added last week and breaker upgraded to CAFCI
The electrician forgot to place back the metering clamp for home automation on the circuit, so I went back and I was putting it back, I ...
2
votes
1
answer
114
views
What type of old cable is fed into this outlet, and what is the bare copper if the junction box doesn't seem to be grounded?
I have a groundless outlet that I'm attempting to add a ground to. The breaker that this circuit is tied to is a one pole AFCI, and it seems this is the only outlet on the circuit for the time being. (...
- 317
2
votes
2
answers
180
views
Multiwire Branch Outlet GFCI/AFCI breaker need but no product
I have a multiwire branch circuit (MWBC) connecting my dishwasher and disposal that connects to a Cutler-Hammer (using Eaton breakers) panel. After a renovation, an inspector told me I need the ...
- 143
3
votes
2
answers
629
views
Klein RT210 GFCI tester not triggering AFCI breaker
My question is should a GGCI tester work on AFCI breaker?
Background:
I have a KLEIN RT210 tester with an Eaton AFCI breaker and when test a plug the lights tell me that it is wired correctly, however,...
- 133
0
votes
1
answer
92
views
Does a 1/2" GE-type Combo AFCI circuit breaker exist?
I've found 1" (THQL?) GE-type CAFCI breakers in stock, but can't find the GE-type CAFCI breakers in the slimmer 1/2" size (THQP?) for sale anywhere, not even out of stock listings. Do they ...
- 103
1
vote
1
answer
69
views
Question about AFCI breakers
I wanted to change my breakers to AFCI, but don’t know if it possible. I have 4 20 amp circuits running to my kitchen. The wiring is 12-3, but this is where it gets weird for a DIYer, like myself. One ...
- 11
2
votes
1
answer
195
views
Can I use AFCI/GFCI outdoors
I am getting ready to install a 20 amp breaker powering my outdoor lights, outlets, and some shed outlets.
I am most likely going to just have the breaker be a GFCI breaker to have the entire outdoor ...
- 412
1
vote
3
answers
434
views
Which circuit breakers should I purchase: Standard, AFCI, GFCI, Dual Function (AFCI/GFCI)
I understand the need to have GFCI outlets in areas such as the kitchen and bathrooms, but when I was upgrading my electrical panel, I saw there are multiple options for circuit breakers.
The ...
- 317
5
votes
1
answer
586
views
Dual Function AFCI/GFCI breakers trip under any load
This is a new subpanel in a workshop and the electrician told me because it's new all circuits have to be AFCI and because it's an outbuilding it should be GFCI too.
So, I purchased these breakers in ...
- 443
1
vote
1
answer
62
views
How do I check ground on incoming power
I have a unique problem, three dual function breakers trip at the same time with a ground fault indication. This mainly happens while asleep or if it happens during the day, I'm of course at work. ...
- 11
0
votes
0
answers
56
views
Can an outlet connected to another outlet using pigtail and the connected to afci outlet
I already have an outlet circuit connected to an AFCI outlet, just before the electrical box. Is it up to code to add another regular outlet by pig-tailing just before the AFCI outlet and connecting ...
- 13
2
votes
1
answer
299
views
Do Dual Function AFCI / GFCI Receptacles Meet NEC Requirements For AFCI Protection?
I have run out of room in my breaker panel, so I'm looking to double up with a tandem breaker. The problem is, it seems there are no AFCI tandem breakers, but I found these dual function AFCI / GFCI ...
- 429
3
votes
1
answer
304
views
Installing an AFCI circuit breaker - any easy way to find a hot wire's corresponding neutral wire?
I'm trying to replace a regular 20A circuit breaker with an AFCI circuit breaker. I understand an AFCI circuit breaker requires both hot and neutral wires. I assume I need to connect the hot and ...
- 407
0
votes
1
answer
51
views
Circuit with GFCI/CAFGI breaker trips on a branch that turns off
Scenario: GFCI/CAFGI circuit with a branch that is set up as: breaker then switch then light 1 then light 2. Light 1 has a socket on it already. Switch is in a box that contains switches for all the ...
- 111
0
votes
1
answer
59
views
Will a combination AFCI mitigate all safety risks imposed by K&T?
I know that properly working and regularly tested AFCI breakers are great for safety. But do they mitigate all safety risks imposed by knob-and-tube? If not, what safety risks remain?
For reference: ...
- 101
0
votes
2
answers
292
views
How to wire two GFCI to one split circuit basic receptacle for dishwasher and disposal
How do I wire two GFCI receptacles with two separate circuit with a common neutral for dishwasher and disposal. I only have a 12/3 load wire and there is no way I can run another neutral.The kitchen ...
- 3
1
vote
1
answer
433
views
Where are the two pole CAFCI/GFCI breakers?
Why aren't there very many (any?) two pole dual function breakers?
Is a GFCI + CAFCI breaker less useful for 220 or MWBC? Is it be prohibitively expensive? Or is there no demand because not many want ...
- 377
0
votes
1
answer
221
views
What could have caused my power outlet to melt when it's on an AFCI circuit?
I had an outlet that had plastic socket covers inserted for child-proofing. Recently I tried to removed the top cover and noticed that was quite stuck. When I eventually forcing it out, I saw burn ...
- 145
0
votes
1
answer
92
views
Are GFCI receptacles required on circuits (eg bathrooms or outdoor receptacles) already protected by AFCI circuit breaker in main electrical panel?
New home build in Canada. Most wiring is protected via AFCI breakers in main electrical panel (EP). One out of 6 outdoor sockets is a GFCI socket - remaining 5 are normal sockets wired to AFCI ...
- 1
5
votes
1
answer
2k
views
Looking for some guidance on knob and tube
I have recently moved into a 1920s apartment in Chicago. My landlord has only owned the building for a few years and does not know the details of the electrical system. I have some electrical devices ...
- 53
4
votes
2
answers
904
views
Is there a problem with using a dual function breaker when a CAFCI would suffice?
I am upgrading a handful of breakers - a couple of circuits with lighting need CAFCI and two with outlets need GFCI (I am going with dual function breakers rather than GFCI outlets).
I have two ...
- 1,342
2
votes
1
answer
219
views
CAFI Breaker Randomly Trips
I have a new CAFI breaker in a Square D Sub-Panel (older panel - T5 Series, 24 slots, but new installation of breakers and wires due to renovation work, whole cottage re-wired). I did the rough and ...
0
votes
2
answers
108
views
All my AFCIs trip as soon as load applied on a new panel
I'm adding new panel connected to my main with a 125 amp breaker. I'm moving some circuits from the main to the new panel and adding one new circuit. The existing circuits use a standard breaker but ...
- 13
1
vote
2
answers
218
views
Preventing inductive kickback from reaching mains in a plugin A/C unit
What off-the-shelf plug-in devices are available to prevent inductive kickback from reaching the mains circuit?
Explanation:
I have a plug-in Air Conditioner unit (rated 10.8A) on a 20A panel-...
- 29
0
votes
1
answer
169
views
Compatible GFCI/AFCI combo breakers
I have this panel: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Eaton-BR-125-Amp-6-Space-12-Circuit-Indoor-Main-Lug-Flush-with-Ground-Bar-BR612L125FGP/305882536
And these EATON Type BR120 Type C120 breakers:
What ...
- 441
0
votes
3
answers
286
views
Is this panel eligible for GFCI/AFCI breakers?
I have the panel below, and would like to know if it's recommended and or easy to simply replace current breakers with more modern GFCI/AFCI ones. I think they provide extra safety, and it seems it's ...
- 441
2
votes
3
answers
176
views
Disposal Circuit Update
I moved to a house built in 1995 and want to update the disposal connection, but found some conflicting rules that I don't know how best to comply with.
The existing connection is a 14-2 NM cable run ...
- 2,485
-1
votes
1
answer
54
views
AFI Breakers Overheating and Tripping - would switching some to regular circuits with an AFI outlet be an acceptable solution?
We have recently upgraded several of our circuit breakers to the new combination AFI units required by NEC. Our panel is full, however, so this means several of these AFIs are stacked next to each ...
6
votes
3
answers
1k
views
Do AFCI and GFCI protect against cheap equipment and bad wiring?
Generally I only buy electrical fixtures (lights, fans, etc.) from a reputable seller out of concern for fire risks, but if AFCI breakers and GFCI receptacles are installed, would that eliminate any ...
- 720
2
votes
1
answer
68
views
AFCI breaker issue
I finished my basement and installed an AFCI breaker for my outlets. I have 12 outlets on the breaker. I passed all electrical inspections and all seemed well. I had used some of the outlets with no ...
- 21
1
vote
2
answers
168
views
AFCI - worth installing and not just GFCI?
How worthwhile is it to install dual-function CAFCI / GFCI outlets rather than going with ones that are just GFCI? Is it a significant increase in safety factor?
- 720
5
votes
2
answers
909
views
Is it possible to tell from labels if the breakers are AFCI / GFCI in the main panel?
I'm deciding if I should upgrade my main panel, and one of the input I want to understand is how different is this panel from modern code requirement. From the photos below, is it possible to tell if ...
- 85
0
votes
1
answer
2k
views
AFCI receptacles vs GFCI receptacles for non-grounded outlets
I'm replacing a few 2-prong receptacles in an old house, and all these outlets do not have ground wires. Cost for rewiring is too much and I'm thinking about using GFCI / AFCI receptacles instead.
My ...
- 85
0
votes
4
answers
160
views
Wire at the end of the circuit activates my tester at about 12-14 inches away
Have a new circuit in the basement that includes a dimmer switch and 4 recessed lights, in addition to 6 outlets.
The switch and the lights are at the end of the run. The order is:: panel > AFCI ...
- 59
3
votes
5
answers
5k
views
Why are multiple AFCI breakers tripping randomly in my new home?
We have a brand new home in Puget Sound which we moved into 2 months ago. We are plagued with constant, random, tripping of multiple AFCI breakers on a daily basis.
Some days, just two or three ...
- 31
0
votes
1
answer
644
views
Wiring a blank face afci, gfci and a regular outlets in a circuit, made a loud noise in gfci box
I've a new basement kitchen 20amp circuit (with regular 20 amp breaker) that has a blank face AFCI (near the panel), GFCI outlet (first outlet in the kitchen) and regular outlet at the end (used a 15 ...
- 59
0
votes
2
answers
835
views
Is my new monitor tripping my AFCI breaker?
I just bought a new computer monitor last night (a Viotek GN34C) and since then, the 15A AFCI breaker for my bedroom has gone off twice.
I doubt I'm drawing too much power, since only my PC, monitor, ...
- 1
1
vote
1
answer
4k
views
Microwave trips the AFCI almost every time it is used
Our new microwave trips the AFCI almost every time we use it. Electrician says it is drawing too much power and we should return it.
Samsung over range Microwave 120 volts 1.5 kw AFGI 20 amp
- 11
2
votes
2
answers
374
views
MWBC for split kitchen receptacle
When installing a split receptacle in a kitchen, where the top and bottom are each their own circuit, is there any way you can use an MWBC, or is your only option to run two normal circuits with two ...
2
votes
3
answers
198
views
AFCI / GFCI Circuit failure
I've been unable to diagnose why a circuit in my house no longer works. It's a 20 amp circuit that feeds 4 outlets in my kitchen area, and it has both a GFCI(link) and AFCI. The entire house is ...
- 722
2
votes
2
answers
4k
views
CAFI vs AFCI? Pigtail?
I need a new AFCI circuit breaker for a new refrigerator-only circuit we're running. Square D Homeline. Don't want any GFCI outlet or breaker. I bought two breakers at home depot, but I don't know ...
- 717
3
votes
1
answer
305
views
Running new fridge line, get regular breakers, AFCI, combo with GFCI, GFCI outlet, etc?
My fridge (2017 GE upper double doors 1500 W, 145 W icemaker) is now on part of a four-outlet circuit with a microwave. An electrician is going to run a new circuit to the fridge only. He said I can ...
- 717
1
vote
2
answers
178
views
Outlets and lighting on covered patio - 240V to 120V
I have installed a covered patio and would like to add lights and a couple of outlets.
The current set up is a breaker out there that was set up for a potential AC hookup; it is fed by a 10gauge wire ...
- 11