How an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter Works

A circuit breaker type AFCI.

During winter storms, we not only not have to consider rain, but also the possibility of lightning and electrical overloads. The apparent safeguard is to unplug electronics. But, what if the problem is inside the walls?

An Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter, or AFCI, is a safety device designed to prevent fires caused by unsafe wiring conditions. Unlike a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) which is intended to address shock hazards, an AFCI is designed to address fire hazards. In other words, while a GFCI is designed to protect people by shutting down if there is a current anomaly, a circuit breaker is designed to protect the wiring by interrupting power if there is an overload, and an AFCI is intended to protect against heat (fire) by shutting down the outlet.

Arcing faults are the primary cause of over 30,000 electrical home fires each year. An AFCI responds to an electrical arc by shutting down the breaker or outlet. A typical arc, caused by faulty wiring, can also occur as the result of a heat appliance such as an iron, toaster, or portable heater.

What is an arc?

An arc is an electrical current through the air. Most arcs are harmless. But, if an electrical system has damage, such as a loose wire, an arc can create a temperature of over 5000 degrees, cause a fire, and never trip a conventional breaker in the process.

AFCI devices are now required by the National Electrical Code to be installed for use in all bedrooms and sleeping areas (such as rooms with a fold-out couch). This safeguard is especially important because when people are sleeping, they can become victims of smoke inhalation before they ever have a chance to wake up.

Who can benefit?

AFCIs are especially warranted in homes with seniors and those with mobility issues. They also make sense to place in homes with children or the disabled. Businesses which often use heat-type appliances can also benefit. Eventually, they will be used in more applications where fire safety is a concern.

Types of AFCIs

There are half a dozen types of AFCIs, ranging from outlet AFCIs, circuit breaker type AFCIs, portable AFCIs and combination types. AFCIs are also naturally GFCIs; however, they are not at the Class A level. Some AFCIs can indicate whether they’ve tripped as the result of an arc fault or a ground fault, which is sure to be useful in some situations. Your electrician can easily install these.

Future planning

As time goes on and new safety devices are developed, more lives and property can be saved from fires and electrocutions. We often take electricity for granted, due to its ubiquitous nature and availability, but in spite of its reliability, hazards still exist, and we must take the long view of these dangers since a small electrical problem can have an enormous impact.

If you have concerns about the wiring in your home or business, consider the impact a small amount of prevention could have in the event of an electrical overload.

When you need a licensed electrician for commercial or residential electrical needs, call Zimmerman Electric at 909-585-6407.