AFCI

What is an AFCI?

Starting January 1, 2002, The National Electrical Code, Section 210-12, requires that all branch circuits supplying 125V, single phase, 15 and 20 ampere outlets installed in dwelling unit bedrooms be protected by an arc-fault Circuit interrupter. Eventually they will be in more areas but the NEC selected to require them on bedroom circuits first because a CPSC study showed many home fire deaths were related to bedroom circuits.

The AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breaker, will shut off a circuit in a fraction of a second if arcing develops. The current inside of an arc is not always high enough to trip a regular breaker. You must have noticed a cut or worn piece of a cord or a loose connection in a junction box or receptacle arcing and burnt without tripping the regular breaker. As you can guess this is a major cause of fires in a dwelling.

There is a difference between AFCIs and GFCIs. AFCIs are intended to reduce the likelihood of fire caused by electrical arcing faults; whereas, GFCIs are personnel protection intended to reduce the likelihood of electric shock hazard. Don't misunderstand, GFCIs are still needed and save a lot of lives.

Combination devices that include both AFCI and GFCI protection in one unit will become available soon. AFCIs can be installed in any 15 or 20 ampere branch circuit in homes today and are currently available as circuit breakers with built-in AFCI features. In the near future, other types of devices with AFCI protection will be available.

If a GFCI receptacle is installed on the load side of an AFCI it is possible for both the AFCI and the GFCI to trip on a fault if the current exceeds the limit for both devices. It is also possible for the AFCI to trip and the GFCI to not trip since the two devices could race each other. However, in no case is safety compromised.

ProLectric Electrical Contractors Inc.
6606 Abercorn St. #120
Savannah, GA 31405
(912) 352-7718
prolectric.net

Keeping Your Home Cool and Efficient

The dog days of summer have arrived, and your home's air conditioner is getting a workout. How do you stay cool and not break the bank when the bill comes due? Help your cooling system help you.

Install a Programmable Thermostat -- Programmable thermostats allow homeowners to set temperature needs based on their schedules. No more cooling an empty house unless you request it!

Check for Leaks -- Seal up any gaps or cracks. Caulk around windows and add weather stripping around doors to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from seeping in.

Change Your Lightbulbs -- If you are still using energy-inefficient incandescent bulbs, you should change them out. Incandescents produce heat, and heat during the summer leads to more energy usage. Switch to LED lights, which produce little to no heat and can last up to 50,000 hours.

Use Fans -- In the summer, change ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise. You should feel a breeze when standing under the fan, and this airflow will make you feel cooler thanks to the wind chill effect.

Inspect the Ductwork -- Ensure your home's ductwork is efficient. It's worth talking to a professional to have the ducts cleaned and inspected for leaks. Cool air escaping into a hot attic is the perfect example of inefficiency.

Change Air Filters -- Change air filters regularly. Dirty filters make your HVAC system work harder than necessary, which increases energy consumption.

Close the Drapes -- Natural light is nice, but open shades or drapes invite the heat in too. Close window coverings during the day for a cooler house.

Consider a New HVAC System -- If you own an older cooling system, it may be worthwhile to consider a replacement. New models are more efficient and can help you save on utility bills. Plus you may be able to get a rebate from your local government to help with the cost.