What is the differences between GFCI and AFCI receptacles?

The AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protects against fires caused by arcing faults. The GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is designed to protect people from severe or fatal electric shocks.

Do I need GFCI or AFCI?

The latest National Electrical Code requires both AFCI and GFCI protection only in kitchens and laundry rooms. And within those rooms, the Dual Function AFCI/GFCI Receptacle provides what is called “feed-through” protection, which means it provides protection for all wiring and extensions attached to the load side.

Do bathroom receptacles need to be AFCI?

AFCI protection is not required for outlets located outside or in garages or bathroom areas. 210.12(A), (B), or (C), it must be AFCI protected. Exception: AFCI protection is not required for extension wiring that is less than 6 ft long (raceway or cable) if no outlets or devices are added (other than splicing devices).

How many AFCI outlets can be on a circuit?

So it all started with the bedrooms. However, with every consecutive update of the Code, AFCIs were required in more rooms and areas. Since the revision of the NEC in 2017, every 15 and 20-amp, 120-volt, single-phase branch circuit outlets for dwelling areas are required to have AFCI installed on them.

What is the difference in a plug and a receptacle?

The difference between a plug and receptacle is that plugs have prolonged connecting pins which fit into a mating socket called a receptacle. A receptacle connector is sometimes called a jack. A receptacle will have mounting features such as a flange with holes.

What is the difference between AFCI and GFCI?

AFCI & GFCI Differences. The main difference between AFCIs and GFCIs are what they are designed to protect against. GFCIs are outlets designed to prevent electric shock and electrocution. The acronym GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter.

What the Heck is an AFCI?

An AFCI is a special circuit breaker that is designed to help protect against fires resulting from electrical arcing, often caused by damaged or deteriorated wires and cords. Fires result from the heat generated from electrical arcing near combustible materials such as paper, wood, carpet, etc.

What is the common wiring in a receptacle?

One side of the receptacle has (2) brass screws and the other side has (2) silver screws. The hot side of the circuit (black wire) should be wired to the brass screws while the neutral side of the circuit (white wire) should be wired to the silver screws. You only need to connect to (1) screw on either side.