AFCI Requirements

[MannyTheElectrician]

I am doing a panel change out. The panel is a first means of Disconnect where grounds and neutrals are bonded. Am I still required to install afci Breakers? Will the inspector fail me for not installing them? I feel like they will be useless for the reason that grounds and neutrals are bonded. Or am I incorrect in my theory?

 

[texie]

The main bonding jumper for the main disconnect has nothing to do with the operation of AFCI breakers. In any event, as long as you don't extend the branch circuit more than 6' you are exempt from requiring AFCI in an existing installation. See 210.12(D) Exception.

 

[ramsy]

..I feel like they will be useless for the reason that grounds and neutrals are bonded. Or am I incorrect in my theory?

Yes most AFCI's fail, if both pigtail and load neutrals incorrectly terminate to the bus.

Most AFCI instructions specify only device pigtail lands on neutral bus. Circuit neutral must land on AFCI breaker, where neutral impedance is monitored between breaker and load.