Combination or non-combination AFCI - Which to use?

[Ragin Cajun]

I am finishing up the design of an apartment complex under the 2017 NEC in SC.

Should I go with the combination AFCI that includes a GFCI function and not use GFCI receptacles, or go with a "regular" non-combination AFCI feeding a GFCI receptacle where required?

I think the combination AFCI will have a lower overall installed cost. But the apartment dwellers will need to go to the panelboard to reset them. And how does that relate to "accessibility" for the GFCI protected receptacle outside at the HVAC equipment, etc.?

I have also read that some AFCI's don't "like" a GFCI downstream. Can't win!

BTW, I absolutely hate the @#$%& AFCI's for so many reasons!

RC

 

[retirede]

I have also read that some AFCI's don't "like" a GFCI downstream. Can't win!

RC

I don’t think that’s the case, maybe it was at one time. Urban legend?

If I lived there, I’d prefer GFCI receptacles.

 

[infinity]

It's not combination type CB's that are both AFCI and GFCI, it's called dual function.

 

[augie47]

As an aside, your terminology could cause someone a problem. The term "combination" on AFCI actually refers to the later generation AFCIs that offer series & parallel protection and have been Code required now for a number of years. The breakers that provide GFCI & AFCI protection are "dual function".
The AFCIs not likimng downstream GFCIs is, I believe, as noted, a legend.

 

[Ragin Cajun]

Fortunately, I had "dual function AFCI/GFCI" breakers on my drawings. CRS strikes again.