Are There Benefits to Upgrading to Arc-Fault or GFCI Breakers?
You may think that your home’s circuit breakers are the same, but some of these circuits function differently to control electric currents and keep you and your home safe. Arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) and ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) breakers are essential for maximum protection against electrical fires and electrocution, so you should upgrade your electrical system with the latest circuit breaker replacements if yours are outdated. The modern technology that’s used in today’s circuit breakers offer more comprehensive protection.
Understanding AFCI and GFCI Breakers
What GFCI Breakers Do
These breakers provide shock protection and reduce electrocution risks by preventing ground faults, which happen when electric currents veer off course unexpectedly and go into the ground. If the incoming and outgoing hot and neutral electric currents aren’t equal, GFCI breakers can trip and shut off the main power supply to stop electricity from going into the ground and causing potentially fatal electrical shocks and other hazards that put your safety at risk. These breakers are especially important to have in wet areas.
What AFCI Breakers Do
Electrical fires often start because of electric current irregularities, and AFCI breakers are designed to safeguard against these occurrences. These breakers can sense any abnormalities in incoming electric currents and safeguard against both parallel and serial arc faults, which are often caused by damaged wiring, loose connections or gaps in between wires.
Difference Between AFCI and GFCI
In short, GFCI circuit breakers protect people from electrical shocks that often lead to injuries or fatalities, and AFCI circuit breakers can keep electrical fires from starting. AFCIs are also generally used to control the flow of electricity to living rooms, bedrooms and most other living spaces in a home, while GFCIs help control power to bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor outlets, and other areas that get wet more often.
Common Electrical Risks in Homes
You’re probably already aware of many of the common electrical risks, but other potential hazards aren’t always so easy to spot. Circuit breaker upgrades may reduce some of these risks.
Some factors that could increase the chances of electrical shock or fires include:
- Old wiring
- Overloaded circuits
- Hidden arc faults behind walls
- High-energy appliances
- Wet areas in a home
- Light bulbs with the wrong wattage
- No surge protection
- Children or pets tampering with electrical outlets
Benefits of Upgrading to GFCI Breakers
The modern technology that’s used in these breakers can do a better job of preventing electrical shocks, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor areas, and other spaces in and around a home that often get wet. The newest breaker replacements also reduce electrical risks that come from having any faulty appliances or damaged cords in your home. Plus, most electrical codes require these breakers in homes.
Benefits of Upgrading to AFCI Breakers
Arc faults and damaged or faulty wires often spark electrical fires, and these breakers can detect problems with electric currents and shut off power quickly to keep fires from starting in your home. New and improved breakers work especially well in older homes with aging wiring. Like GFCI breakers, many areas now require these breakers in order to meet national code requirements.
Advantages of Dual-function AFCI/GFCI Breakers
There are now breakers that serve the dual purpose of protecting against arc fault and ground fault currents. These breakers have the combined ability to protect against electrical shocks and fire. When you get these combined breakers, you won’t have to worry about buying separate breakers for both purposes, which can save you money. These breakers also take up less room in electrical panels, which can be especially practical if you live in a smaller home with a smaller fuse box. Combined breakers often work particularly well for kitchens, laundry rooms and other mixed-use areas.
Signs Your Home May Need AFCI or GFCI Upgrades
Even if you already have these types of breakers in your home, they still might not be performing up to standard if they are older and don’t include the latest technology.
Signs that often indicate the need for new circuit breaker installations include:
- Frequent tripping (power loss)
- Flickering lights
- Buzzing outlets or fixtures
- Warm or discolored outlets
- Older electrical panels
- The need to use multiple extension cords
- Living in an older home
Why Professional Installation Matters
Trying to install your breakers yourself can be dangerous work, and professionals know how to work safer and keep you and your home out of harm’s way. Qualified electricians also know how to ensure proper breaker-to-panel compatibility and install each breaker in the right place correctly. The most knowledgeable professionals also adhere to code requirements that comply with the law.
Get Help from Mister Sparky in Tampa
If you want to prevent electrical fires and shocks in your home, the experts from Mister Sparky can upgrade your circuit breakers to make your living space safer for everyone. Contact us today to schedule a panel or breaker evaluation. Our qualified electricians also know how to handle fuse box replacements, electrical repairs and other electrical-related tasks with ease. Don’t put up with any malarky, call Mister Sparky!