My understanding is that under the most recent National Electrical Code (NEC
2008?) AFCI circuit breakers are required for all residential circuits -- not just in bedroom circuits.However, I just heard from one unofficial source that AFCI circuit breakers are not required under the newest NEC for kitchen and bathroom circuits because they have GFCI protected receptacles. Is that correct?
Yes.also the basement, crawlspaces, utility rooms and outdoors. In fact you also don't need either in any receptacles in the kitchen that don't serve the counter top.
The code says
210.12(B) Dwelling Units. All 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter, combination-type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.
Thanks. That's exactly what I was looking for. And thanks for the direct reference to the code. I was then able to look it up and go right to the correct section at:
Not in "wet areas" where GFCI's are required. AND some local areas modify the national electrical code. For example in Oregon, AFCI's are only required in bedrooms. And GFCI's are not required for refrigerators/freezers and sump pumps in garage/basement. These are local modifications to the national rules.
And some areas do not use the latest national electrical code.
Bottom line: Ask your local electrical inspectors office. Ask about local amendments and when to get a copy of these. Ask what year of the NEC your area is going by. NEC adoption map...
You do have places where both are required. If you have a wet bar in your family room you need GFCI within 6' of the sink and AFCI everywhere in that room. That will be an AFCI breaker with a GFCI receptacle.
Thanks. That's an added twist that I hadn't thought about, and definitely good to know.
HomeOwnersHub website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.