AFCI breakers and service upgrade

[Ken 6789]

I thought I read a thread somewhere if you are upgrading an electrical service (my case, 60 amp upgraded to 150 amp) which doesn't already have AFCI's installed, then you are not required to install them in the upgrade. I have a feeling the inspector will not pass me because of this. Is there any specific section in the NEC I can reference to? Thank you.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I thought I read a thread somewhere if you are upgrading an electrical service (my case, 60 amp upgraded to 150 amp) which doesn't already have AFCI's installed, then you are not required to install them in the upgrade. I have a feeling the inspector will not pass me because of this. Is there any specific section in the NEC I can reference to? Thank you.

It's a crap shoot with inspectors but IMO, the 2011 has clarified to state that if the existing circuit is not modified, replaced or extended it does not need afci.

I would use this to show him that the intent was to never req. AFCI in this situation.

 

[acrwc10]

Some city's require the installation of AFCI's on a panel change/upgrade. Oakland Ca. is one of these city's, careful on the bid as this can come back and bite hard.