LED"s and arc-fault breakers

[CLR498]

I know this issue was raised on the forum in the past (2009) but that tread has been closed and did not really solve the problem. None the less, I have a problem with operating LED downlights on AF circuits. I am building a new home for my daughter and she bought the new LED down light units sold by the big box stores. The light units are very easy to install and fit conveniently into a standard J-box. They look just like the typical recessed can light.

The problem is, they do not work on AF Circuits. When the circuit is activated and the lights switched on, the light flashes and the breaker trips. I tried three different circuits with as few as two light units and as many as five . I changed out the breaker to a non AFIC and the lights work fine.

Since I am required to use the AFIC breakers I need to solve this problem. Any suggestions?

 

[jumper]

I am closing this thread, in accordance with the Forum rules. This Forum is intended to assist professional electricians, inspectors, engineers, and other members of the electrical industry in the performance of their job-related tasks. However, if you are not an electrician or an electrical contractor, then we are not permitted to help you perform your own electrical installation work.


If I have misjudged the situation, if for example this project is related to your work, then send me a Private Message. If you can show me that I am wrong, and that you are a licensed electrician (or at least a licensed apprentice), then I will reopen your post, and offer an apology for the delay and inconvenience.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I will add that many LED fixtures have been causing havoc on afci circuits. I know of a contractor that had to buy special filters from the manufacturer to deal with this. Contact them.