AFCI
In 2015 the Canadian Electrical Code mandated new regulation regarding AFCI breakers. AFCI breakers are required be added to your electrical panel.
What is an AFCI Breaker?
AFCI stands for Arch Fault Circuit Interrupter, they are used to protect you and your family against electrical fires. An arch fault is a small electrical spark that can occur if chords, outlets, or switches are damaged. These small sparks are among the leading causes of electrical fires. Each year, in the US, 40000 fires are attributed to arch faults. AFCI breakers prevent these fires by detecting the spark, and automatically tripping the breaker.
Do I have to install AFCI breakers?
AFCI breakers are mandatory on all new home construction. If you own a pre-built home you are only required to add AFCI breakers if the existing wiring is being disrupted. For example, if you are renovating and a new circuit is required to be added to your panel then, an AFCI will be required to be added. If you are upgrading your aging panel to replace with a new one, AFCI breakers are needed on each circuit as per CE code requirement.
Why is this important to know?
If you are renovating your home, and adding new circuits, it is important to take into consideration that AFCI breakers are twice the size of normal breakers. If the number of circuits you are planning to add exceeds the capacity of your existing electrical panel, replacement to a new panel will be required. Ask our certified Electricians for an in-home assessment… planning ahead is an important step to manage any Improvement cost budget..
What is an AFCI Breaker?
AFCI stands for Arch Fault Circuit Interrupter, they are used to protect you and your family against electrical fires. An arch fault is a small electrical spark that can occur if chords, outlets, or switches are damaged. These small sparks are among the leading causes of electrical fires. Each year, in the US, 40000 fires are attributed to arch faults. AFCI breakers prevent these fires by detecting the spark, and automatically tripping the breaker.
Do I have to install AFCI breakers?
AFCI breakers are mandatory on all new home construction. If you own a pre-built home you are only required to add AFCI breakers if the existing wiring is being disrupted. For example, if you are renovating and a new circuit is required to be added to your panel then, an AFCI will be required to be added. If you are upgrading your aging panel to replace with a new one, AFCI breakers are needed on each circuit as per CE code requirement.
Why is this important to know?
If you are renovating your home, and adding new circuits, it is important to take into consideration that AFCI breakers are twice the size of normal breakers. If the number of circuits you are planning to add exceeds the capacity of your existing electrical panel, replacement to a new panel will be required. Ask our certified Electricians for an in-home assessment… planning ahead is an important step to manage any Improvement cost budget..
