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#198759 02/03/11 01:34 AM
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 19
C
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How is the Arc fault being used in the US? is it a code must now for the bedrooms?

candyman #198766 02/03/11 11:09 AM
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,381
Likes: 7
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candyman:

The requirements for AFCI on this side of the border vary from state to state, dependent on the edition of the NEC that each state adopted.

New Jersey is currently on the 2008 NEC, and AFCI is required per that edition. Previously we were under the '05 until late 2009, and AFCI was NOT a state requirement, although it was within the '05, and required in other states.





John
candyman #198768 02/03/11 12:08 PM
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 984
Likes: 1
G
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John's right about it being dependent on the specifics of each jurisdiction.

Back in the 1999 NEC AFCI was required for bedroom receptacle outlets. In the 2002 NEC the word "receptacle" was removed so that it was required for all bedroom outlets. Over the past few Code cycles it's been expanded to require AFCI darn near everywhere in the Dwelling.
I think right now that just about every outlet needs either GFCI or AFCI.

The current requirements in the area where you're working depends on which edition of the Code is being enforced; in addition to any local Amendments.


Ghost307
candyman #198780 02/03/11 08:29 PM
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,381
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Ghost:

"I think right now that just about every outlet needs either GFCI or AFCI."

That about sums it up here with '08. The key is 'outlet'.





John
candyman #198791 02/04/11 11:24 AM
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 2,233
H
Member
John,

Next thing you know, they will make the main service breaker GFCI/AFCI.

candyman #198794 02/04/11 11:53 AM
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 984
Likes: 1
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Member
I suggested that back in 1999 and got shot down.

There should have been an option in the Code to install a single AFCI Main instead of multiple AFCI branch breakers.
Let the installer determine what is the best bang for the buck.


Ghost307
candyman #198796 02/04/11 01:57 PM
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 9,923
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Yeah, that's a great idea. Your fridge trips the AFCI, drops power to the house and your pipes are frozen when you get home from your vacation to Disney World.


Greg Fretwell
candyman #198797 02/04/11 02:30 PM
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 613
M
Member
Maybe if the main was a GFI with a higher trip setting but then you would still need GFCI for all the shock protection.
We work very hard to not adopt all the GFCI requirements from the NEC. A really good shock does wonders for the average Joe.
We only have GFCI protection for plugs within 5 feet of sinks, Plugs within 2.5 meters of grade and spa tubs and hot tubs. In fact there are a number of ways to install a hot tub without GFCI protection. The hot tub GFCI is being changed to require it.
No GFCI in basements, No GFCI in softs as long as it is mounted higher than 2.5 meters.
GFCI on construction sites. Not too many more.

candyman #198800 02/04/11 04:21 PM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,445
Likes: 2
Cat Servant
Member
Well, Greg ... of course you'll get Mickey Mouse work when you're on a Minnie-mum budget! To expect otherwise is just plain Goofy!

(Sorry, I coundn't resist) laugh

candyman #198805 02/04/11 11:30 PM
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 2,233
H
Member
OOOOHHHHH!!!! Reno,


That was SOO bad! smile

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