Ground & Arc-fault devices
Ground fault circuit interrupters are important safety devices that if installed in home branch circuits, could prevent over two-thirds of the approximately 300 electrocutions still occurring each year in and around the home. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI’s) were first required for most exterior receptacles (outlets) since 1973, bathroom receptacle circuits since 1975, garage wall outlets since 1978, kitchen receptacles since 1987 (kitchen countertops since 2000), and all receptacles in crawl spaces and unfinished basements since 1990. Requirements also exist for hydrotherapy, pools and spas.
Lack of GFCI’s is grand fathered in right?
Well, yes. The ultimate decision to install or not install on an existing home is up to the owner of the property. TREC requires in the Standards of Practice that receptacles not GFCI protected at the above locations be called as deficient in a property inspection report.
Do GFCIs have to be tested?
"GFCIs are proven lifesavers, however, consumers need to take a few minutes each month to do this simple test. By taking action, you can help protect your family from the risk of electric shock," says John Drengenberg, UL Consumer Affairs Manager. Information about testing may be obtained at www.ul.com/consumers/groundfault.html
What are Arc-fault breakers?
An arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is a device intended to provide protection from the effects of arc faults by recognizing characteristics unique to arcing and by functioning to de-energize the circuit when an arc fault is detected. So if the wiring in an old lamp, radio or nail is driven into a electrical wire (like when you're a painting) the breaker shuts off power to the circuit.
How are they different from GFCIs?
GFCIs protect the user (person) from shock and Arc-fault protects the electrical wiring from arcs for the circuit it’s installed upon.
Where are they required and when did this go into effect?
All branch circuits (wiring) that supply power to the bedrooms shall be protected by an arc-fault circuit interrupter(s). This includes receptacles, lights, ceiling fans and smoke detectors. The requirement became effective January 1, 2002. Beginning September 1, 2008 and latter requrie AFCI at the bedrooms, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closet, hallways and similar rooms.
