Call 844-335-0814 and our service desk will connect you with an independent local electrician who installs AFCI protection.
Where AFCI breakers are used
Modern electrical codes call for arc fault protection on many living area circuits, including bedrooms, living rooms, hallways and similar spaces, and the requirements have expanded over time. In older homes, AFCI protection is often added during remodels, panel upgrades or when circuits are extended.
- Bedroom and living area circuits
- Circuits extended or modified during a remodel
- Homes with older wiring where insulation may be damaged
- Panels being replaced, where new breakers are being installed anyway
AFCI, GFCI and combination protection
AFCI and GFCI devices protect against different hazards. An AFCI looks for arcing that can start fires, while a GFCI looks for current leaking to ground that can cause shocks. Dual function breakers provide both on one circuit, which can save panel space where both types of protection are needed.
Your panel brand matters, since AFCI breakers must be compatible with the panel they go into.
Installing AFCI breakers
- Call 844-335-0814 and tell us your panel brand and which circuits you want protected.
- We connect you with an independent electrician who installs AFCI breakers.
- The electrician checks panel compatibility and the condition of each circuit.
- Standard breakers are replaced with AFCI or dual function breakers.
- Circuits are tested and any wiring faults the new breakers reveal are addressed.
Nuisance trips after installation
Sometimes a new AFCI breaker trips because it has detected a real problem the old breaker missed, such as a shared neutral, a damaged cord or a loose connection. In other cases, certain motors or older appliances can cause trips. The electrician can tell the difference and fix the underlying issue.
If an AFCI trips repeatedly, note what was running at the time. That detail helps track down the cause.
Choosing breakers for an older panel
Some older panels have limited AFCI breaker options. If compatible breakers are hard to find, the electrician may recommend upgrading the panel at the same time.
Questions about AFCI Breaker Installation
Can AFCI protection be added to an older home?
Yes. In most cases the existing breaker is replaced with a compatible AFCI breaker, without rewiring the circuit.
Is an AFCI the same as a surge protector?
No. An AFCI detects arcing in wiring and cords, while a surge protector diverts voltage spikes.