AFCI related question

[green0123]

Hello,
I have two bedrooms with AFCI breakers. They were both working fine until I decided to install a brand new window AC unit and small refrigerator in each. After that, every few days the breaker would trip at random for each of those bedrooms. The AFCI breakers are new, the mini-fridges are both new, and the window ac units are also new. Both are small and combined do not exceed 20A... quite a bit less if I remember correctly. I know some motors can trip these types of breakers. I have three questions:

1. What is most likely the problem(s)?

2. If window AC units and mini-fridges(even new ones) cause AFCI breakers to trip, why the heck are they required for these devices if they will trip even under normal operation?

3. Since code requires bedrooms and other dwelling areas to be AFCI, how can I use a window AC unit or mini-fridge in a bed-room? Can I run a dedicated non-afci line to the bedroom for an AC unit or will that not be 'code'?

I am confused and frustrated...please help.

 

[resistance]

Is the Air Conditioner fastened in place? If so, what is the name plate information.

You may have a couple issues.

See 210.23(A)(2) to start

 

[Cavie]

First, start by finding out which unit is causing the problem. The fridge or the A/C. Are they both brand names??? The problem could very well be with a cheap motor.

 

[growler]

I am confused and frustrated...please help.

The first thing about trouble-shooting is to not jump to any conclustions.


The problem is intermittent so you would need to narrow down the cause. Unplug the frig in one bed room and the AC unit in the other bed room. Now you have a frig on one circuit and an AC unit on the other. If the problem is with the appliance then you will know which type appliance is giving the problem. If neither trips the breakers you will know the circuit is overloaded when both motors try to start at once.

This would be a simple an safe test for anyone.

 

[green0123]

Thank you for your suggestions and advice. I will get back with you all later this week and let you know what I discovered and if the problem was solved.