What Is an Arc Fault Breaker? Mike Holmes explains #mikeholmes

When you hear a light switch or outlet buzzing or hissing, you are hearing arcing as it happens.

The normal means of guarding against arc faults is an AFCI (arc-fault circuit interrupter)—either an AFCI outlet or an AFCI circuit breaker. AFCIs are intended to guard against the danger of fire.

In 1999, the National Electrical Code began requiring AFCI protection in all circuits feeding bedroom outlets, and beginning in 2014, nearly all circuits supplying general outlets in living spaces are required to have AFCI protection in new construction or in remodeling projects.

Video featuring Eaton breaker.

[Wipsplash]

Mike has taught me so many things that it allowed me to build my own house. I wont gloss over the fact that I am awesome though. lol... Seriously though every home owner should review all his expertise.

[josh]

In Canada we use arc fault combination breakers which for plugs detects the behaviour mentioned in this video but as well protects the branch circuit conductors from the same thing (arc fault). Some particular ccts and plugs are exempt from requiring an afci but that is stipulated in the CEC. Also on the market is AFCI/GFCI combination breakers which also bring the protections of both those devices to the whole branch cct. technically manufacturer literature advises these breakers be tested monthly (but who the duck does that). please consult a certified electrician on CEC minimum standards on electrical and your local AHJ.

[ebb]

IMO, it was more about the cheap wire press in outlets the industry used 70's 80's and maybe early 90's. Simple barbs held the wires once pushed in. Over time, these barbs and wires oxidized. Even a moderate steady load could begin to arc causing heat in the outlet. Another fire potential from these outlets, were microwave ovens. Vibrations from traffic, doors etc would cause a brownout condition in the microwaves' microprocessor. Not enough for a reset so the microwave could turn on in random states ie. full power no time limit! It happened to me luckily I was home at the time. I could find no problem with the circuits and the problem only occurred when plugged into that outlet. Examining the outlet showed burn marks on the bare wires. How many fires were blamed on faulty microwaves? Now switch mode power supplies (TV's etc) can mimic the ARC Fault condition and trip these breakers. AFCI seems more like a bandaid to cover up the original problem...

[davidhuez]

You just have run extension cord from the non afci circuit to a central power strip, to more cords going through your house, so you run things that afci will not work with. Keurig coffee maker, some led lights, television, power strip surge protector for the stereo or computer, Dyson or Shark vacuum, treadmill, etc. I guess we can go back to wood stove, candle light and board games for entertainment.

[crowndroyal]

Also anoying as hell on the washing machine breaker.