• Welcome to The Building Code Forum

    Your premier resource for building code knowledge.

    This forum remains free to the public thanks to the generous support of our Sawhorse Members and Corporate Sponsors. Their contributions help keep this community thriving and accessible.

    Want enhanced access to expert discussions and exclusive features? Learn more about the benefits here.

    Ready to upgrade? Log in and upgrade now.

afci and existing branch circuits

P

peach

REGISTERED
Joined
Oct 17, 2009
Messages
2,834
Location
metro DC
If we've talked about this, I was in the ozone and missed it. Assuming we have a new panel in an existing dwelling where there isn't a total rewire, how do we feel about requiring AFCI in the bedrooms (assuming it's not new wiring to the existing bedrooms). I know how the "electrical forum" folks feel about it.

thanks
 
Not required! This crap has to stop somewhere. Before long you will have to completely rewire a home before you can sell it. The electrical trades are for it because it requires additional work and income that is not necessary; but, they are beginning to make it legally required.

Again, these "non-profit" organizations that represent the industry (manufacturers and in this case the Electrical Contractors) are pushing these codes through for profit and calling it a safety issue.

Uncle Bob
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I know how the "electrical forum" folks feel about it.
Click to expand...
Really, so how do I feel about it?

I personally don't feel that they are required unless you are running a new circuit or extending and existing circuit. If the circuit is not modified then I don't believe that they are required.

My personal feelings about AFCI protection is that the manufacturers have misled everyone about the effectiveness of the AFCI technology.

Chris
 
Raider,

I agree; I live in an older apartment complex (all electric). No GFCIs, AFCIs; and no receptacle within the (now) required distance from lavatory and kitchen sink. The breaker box is on the wall immediately adjacent to and on the right side of the kitchen stove, 8" above the stove top. I feel very save; and sleep well at night.

In fact if it was not this way; I would not be able to rent a one bedroom apartment (central heat and air) for $495.00 per month; which includes all utilities, free extended cable TV, and free high speed internet. Oh, forgot we have a very nice swimming pool.

The codes are making life more expensive; and, not neccesarily always more safe.

Uncle Bob
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I don't require it here. Getting the fuse boxes (usually multiple) switched out is my goal. The only time I might is after a fire and knob and tube wiring is compromised.

Where I'm at, not many people can afford to have the home totally rewired.

Sue, in the high desert
 
We require AFCI for:

New construction per NEC/IRC

When adding a new circuit to an existing dwelling

When extending a circuit on an existing dwelling

We do not require AFCI for panelboard changes or service changes
 
Yeah, He's the third cousin twice removed to my ex wifes ex sister in laws husband
 
Agree with JAR and others. Also, welcome to the fiddler. Perhaps a fiddler crab? Maybe a musician? Bluegrass? Welcome
 
Last edited by a moderator:
fatboy said:
Ditto to the not required's..........on existing, anything new, yes.Happy New Year!
Click to expand...
Not enough detail for either you or rjj.

Are you saying you don't require AFCI protection when:

1) An existing circuit is extended with new receptacles, lights, etc.

2) A new circuit is added to an existing dwelling.

3) An addition for an existing dwelling.
 
"on existing, anything new, yes."

New, as in any new work in an existing dwelling. Obviously the code takes care of new dwellings. Sorry.......
 
if it's a bedroom and it's new wiring.... absolutely..

existing circuit with new wiring.. where are the accessible j boxes going to be? We don't see that particular scenario.

Happy New Year!
 
From the new service upgrade and run the new branch circuit to the existing bedroom circuits then yes afci required.
 
Let's review RCNYS 2010 (ICC 2008) Appendix "J" which applies to existing one & two family homes:

J508.1 General. Any alteration to an existing electrical system shall be made in conformity with the provisions of Chapter E33 through Chapter E42.

If a panelboard replacement is an alteration, why doesn't the following apply?:

E3802.11 Arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection. All branch circuits that supply 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere outlets installed in family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreations rooms, closets, hallways and similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a combination type arc-fault circuit interrupter installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.
 
shared neutrals jump to mind if they don't re-wire the rooms.

Why invite a "jackleg" electrician to come in and "fix" the problem after you're gone?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top