New code for service upgrades

[JARRETT SANCHEZ]

my questions is, when changing out an existing service is it required that we install arch fault breakers in the new service panel? If not required were can I locate the note/ exception to the rule? Some inspectors say yes and som say no!!!!!
Your help would be appreciated, we can not find in the code book the exception to the rule.
Thank You for your help,
Jarrett Sanchez

 

[KevinVost]

There is nothing in the code that addresses the service change out. Most AHJ's will make their own determination as to what is required when an upgrade happens. In our AHJ we do not require AFCI's at a panel change out or upgrade but if you install any new circuits we require the AFCI. Call your AHJ and request, in writting, what they require for a panel upgrade.

 

[raider1]

Welcome to the forum.

The question on whether or not a service change requires upgrading to AFCI breaker to meet 210.12 is not specifically addressed in the NEC.

There are some jurisdicitions that require AFCI upgrades when a service or panel are changed. I would check with your local AHJ.

Chris

 

[ceb58]

Welcome to the forum.

The question on whether or not a service change requires upgrading to AFCI breaker to meet 210.12 is not specifically addressed in the NEC.

There are some jurisdicitions that require AFCI upgrades when a service or panel are changed. I would check with your local AHJ.

Chris

I agree with Chris and Kevin. It's up to the AHJ. The different jurisdiction I have done change outs in they did not require AFCI because I went no further than the panel and added no new circuits

 

[infinity]

Are multipole AFCI breakers readily available for use on existing MWBC's?

 

[GUNNING]

I HAVE YET TO SEE A DPST CAFCI FOR A MWBC.

 

[Pierre C Belarge]

I HAVE YET TO SEE A DPST CAFCI FOR A MWBC.

I have spoken with some manufacturers. They do not have the combination type AFCI in multiwire designations. For now they only have the combination type in single pole types.

 

[infinity]

I have spoken with some manufacturers. They do not have the combination type AFCI in multiwire designations. For now they only have the combination type in single pole types.

So for now AFCI protection for service upgrades are out of the question.

 

[ivsenroute]

Requiring AFCI breakers for a service change would be a local/state code and not an NEC requirement.

 

[al hildenbrand]

I HAVE YET TO SEE A DPST CAFCI FOR A MWBC.

I haven't held it in my hand yet, but Siemens (who also supplies GE) has their 2-pole Combination AFCI up at their website.

 

[bgeorge]

Al beat me to it....I have seen these, they have LED indicators to let you know what type of fault was detected...oh and by the way, they are about 90.00 here in NJ.

 

[sameguy]

I would say no; but I have read that if you touch it then it must be brought up to new code.

 

[Sharpie]

Al beat me to it....I have seen these, they have LED indicators to let you know what type of fault was detected...oh and by the way, they are about 90.00 here in NJ.

They might be $90, but when the SP AFCI breakers are $35-45, what's the difference?

 

[cdslotz]

Cutler Hammer and GE also make 2P AFCI's