AFCI receptacles.

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chi

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bufalo
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retired home improvement
hello, I am new here although I have been reading a lot of threads recently. I am retired and have not worked as an electrician for a while, and some codes have changed.

Will a dual GFCI/AFCI receptacle mounted next to a circuit panel, connecting a circuit to the load side pass an inspection in most cases to meet the GFCI/AFCI code?
If so are there any problems with false tripping with these new devices? I have a hunch that I should spend extra money on dual-function AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers that will perform better without tripping falsely.

thanks.
 
If supplying say kitchen counter receptacles, which need both AFCI and GFCI protection, this device would provide that protection. The catch code wise is you now have a SABC receptacle outlet in an area not allowed to be served by any of the SABC's. If there is a "dead front" version of these devices that would be acceptable though.

I have no idea if such devices are any more or less prone to "false trips"
 
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It is difficult to stay abreast of Code changes and newer devices when it comes to AFCI protection.
As best I can ascertain on a new circuit any of the devices downstream from a breaker would need to be supplied by metallic wiring method (EMT< MC, etc). (on the line side).
As far as AFCI protection you could address kwireds issue with a "blank face" AFCI receptacle but I am not aware of such an animal with both AFCI & GFCI capability
Others may know a route but, if you can't obtain a dual-function breaker for your panel i think the route would be metallic wiring to AFCI blank face the GFCI receptacle at the kitchen
 
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hbiss said:
How about a new small sub panel right next to the main panel with a dual function breaker? It will give you expansion for the future too. You were going to put a receptacle there, right?

-Hal
Click to expand...
Since I am old school, I am realizing things have changed in the last 10 years from what I am used to. I am more curious than anything else about whether or not a GFI/ AFI receptacle is permissible. For all reasons, it would be an inferior way to tackle the job.
I could not find a blank-face dual receptacle anyway.
I respect your suggestion about adding a sub-panel if I ever need to take that route. Every job must be done correctly and no one should skimp on material.
Today I purchased two dual GFI/CAFI circuit breakers and I can fit them into the panel and I can rest and be assured that the job is done right.
I also asked for a price on a double pole AFCI/GFI for another circuit and was quoted a price of just under $200.00 Wow. Thanks for the replies.
 
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