Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI)
This guide is based in part on the 2020 Indiana Residential Code. While every attempt has been made to insure the correctness of this guide, no guarantees are made to its accuracy or completeness.
Responsibility for compliance with applicable codes and ordinances falls on the owner or contractor. For specific questions regarding code requirements, refer to the Indiana Building Code or contact your local Building Department.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters Guide
An Arc Fault Interrupter (AFCI) is an electrical device that detects and protects against arching (electricity going where it is not intended to be). Arching faults often occur in damaged or deteriorated wiring and chords. Examples include: puncturing a wire while hanging a picture; poorly installed outlets or switches; chords caught in doors or under furniture; furniture pushed against a plug in an outlet or overheated and/or stressed electrical cords. Once arching is detected the device trips and de-energizes the circuit.
In simplistic terms the AFCI protects against fire hazards, while the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protects against personal injury such as shocks related to water contact.
When any receptacle outlet is replaced in a room or area that requires AFCI protection or, for any existing circuit where the circuit is altered, extended or modified in rooms or areas that require AFCI protection.
With the exception of garages, unfinished basements and bathrooms and all of the following areas would require protection: kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas or similar areas.
