AFCI/GFCI on all breakers

[rubenhak]

Hi folks, I'm upgrading the sub-panel. Going with Leviton. I know there is a risk they will stop producing breakers, but that's the risk I am willing to take. Don't want to compare more reputable breaker manufacturers, like SqD, etc here.

I have a different question. Is there any downside putting AFCI/GFCI breakers on all 15A or 20A lines? Got 2-pole 40A and 50A breakers for EV charger, range and HVAC, can I use GFCI breakers on those?

Also, is there any disadvantage using hydraulic vs thermal breakers? I'm nowhere close to extreme weather, just wanted more precise breakers. Which breakers trip quicker, thermal or hydraulic?

The extra cost I'm willing to take, just want to make sure that they do not cause additional troubles.

Thank you!

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I decided to allow this question but only answer the specific questions not how to....

 

[jim dungar]

Also, is there any disadvantage using hydraulic vs thermal breakers? I'm nowhere close to extreme weather, just wanted more precise breakers. Which breakers trip quicker, thermal or hydraulic?

In my opinion it doesn't matter.
Most of the problems I have ever been associated with involve thermal magnetic breakers opening before the customer wanted them to.
The NEC has such a large safety margin built into its ampacity selection that Listed break speed is irrelevant.

Hydraulic breakers may have use in critical applications like submarines and airplanes, but that is because size is usually a critcal consideration and their conductors are not sized per the NEC.

 

[Seven-Delta-FortyOne]

I personally would never use an AFCI in my house at all, let alone where they are not required. I’m not advising you to violate your local code, but AFCI is a scam and snake oil.

GFCI on the other hand, is an old and proven technology that actually saves lives. However, they don’t play well with an ever increasing variety of modern appliances. You may find yourself with nuisance tripping of microwaves, EV chargers, dryers, etc, or come home to a fridge full of spoiled food.