What Is an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter?

Electricity is delicate and needs to operate correctly for your safety. If anything goes wrong within your electrical system, it could result in a fire.

An arc fault is one of the most common problems with electrical systems. This problem arises when electricity doesn’t travel correctly from one place to another. Fortunately, an arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) can resolve this. These units go above and beyond the abilities of a typical circuit breaker to stop the flow of power when an arc fault is detected.

Today’s modern electrical systems handle a substantial electrical flow, so it’s crucial to catch and prevent arc faults before they happen. Here, F.H. Furr discusses what causes an arc fault and how installing an AFCI can prevent them.

What Is an Arc Fault?

An arc fault is an electrical discharge or spark that happens when the lining around a wire becomes damaged. This can occur due to wear and tear, physical damage, or loose wire connections. It can create hot temperatures that could ignite nearby materials. Arc faults are a high-level danger because they often go unnoticed until severe damage is done.

A typical cause of arc faults is damaged wiring, such as when nails or screws are driven through walls and into the wires. Worn or frayed electrical insulation is another common issue. Bad electrical connections in outlets, switches, or appliances can also result in arc faults.

How Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) Work

Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) detect irregular patterns in your electrical system. When they detect an arc fault, the AFCI quickly turns off the circuit to prevent electrical discharge, greatly lowering the chances of a fire. These units monitor the electrical flow constantly, ensuring early detection of arc faults before they can cause harm.

A professional electrician can install a variety of AFCIs, depending on your needs. The types of AFCIs to consider installing include:

• Outlet AFCI: Installed on specific outlets, these protect devices plugged into the outlet and are easy for our electricians to install.
• Dual-function AFCI/GFCI: These combine the protection of AFCIs and GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) in one device, protecting against arc faults and shock hazards.
• Branch or feeder AFCI: Installed into the electrical panel, these protect the entire circuit from arc faults anywhere along the circuit’s path.
• Combination AFCI: These will detect parallel and series arc faults, protecting against faults caused by damaged wiring or loose connections.
• Portable AFCI: These plug-in devices can be used at any outlet.

Why AFCIs Are Critical for Home Safety

AFCIs are vital for keeping your home safe. They provide several safety features, including:

• Electrical fire protection: These units cut power where and when needed to stop fires from breaking out.
• Code compliance: These units meet or exceed regulator requirements and keep your property up to code.
• Secure common fire-risk appliances: These units help prevent fires at appliances, fixtures, and other common fire-risk points.

The Benefits of Installing AFCIs

Adding AFCIs throughout your property provides you with a wealth of benefits. A few advantages include:

• Energy efficiency
• Added security against fires
• Peace of mind that your electrical system is safer

Count on our team to help you choose the right AFCIs for your property and install them correctly.

Schedule Service With Our Electricians

You can secure your electrical systems with AFCIs installed by the team at F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical. Our expert electricians have served the DMV area for decades, delivering timely service, precise installations, and long-lasting repairs.

Choose our team for exceptional service, flat-rate pricing, special discounts, and financing options. When you partner with us, your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Call F.H. Furr today to schedule arc fault circuit interrupter services in DC, Virginia, Maryland, or Delmarva.