Quck answer
To install a new or replacement AFCI breaker, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the main power switch to ensure safety.
2. Identify the circuit breaker panel and locate the slot for the AFCI breaker.
3. Remove the panel cover using a screwdriver.
4. Disconnect the wires from the old breaker by loosening the terminal screws.
5. Remove the old breaker from the panel.
6. Insert the new AFCI breaker into the empty slot.
7. Connect the wires to the new breaker and tighten the terminal screws.
8. Reattach the panel cover and secure it with screws.
9. Turn on the main power switch to restore electricity.
Remember to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidelines and safety precautions.
Since the introduction of the arc-fault circuit-interrupter (AFCI) receptacle in 1999, the National Electrical Code (NEC) has mandated its use in an increasing number of applications in dwelling units. Today, the widespread application of AFCI protection means that it is more practical to safeguard each circuit branch with an AFCI breaker in the panel, rather than installing AFCI receptacles throughout the residence. Although the cost of an AFCI circuit breaker is higher than that of a conventional circuit breaker ($40+ compared to approximately $10), the former is more cost-effective since it provides comprehensive circuit protection and allows homeowners to install conventional receptacles on the circuit instead of more expensive AFCI ones.
NEC code alterations apply to all new constructions and remodels, but homeowners are not obligated to retrofit existing wiring, which means that many homes lack the protection provided by AFCI breakers or receptacles. Given that electrical safety is the top priority of the electrical code, homeowners should reconsider their laissez-faire attitude if their home lacks AFCI protection.
Tip
Replacing a breaker necessitates working within the service panel, which is typically a job for an electrician and should only be undertaken by homeowners who have a basic knowledge of wiring and service panel layout. If you possess this knowledge and adhere to the essential safety measures, you should have no issues.
What is an AFCI breaker?
An AFCI breaker, similar to a ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI), which has been in use for much longer, contains an internal breaker that trips when it detects a current surge that could result in electrical arcing. Arcing can occur when a loose ground wire inside a switch box comes into contact with the hot terminal of the switch. Even prior to the wire actually touching the terminal screw, electricity can arc between them, similar to how lightning arcs between a charged cloud and the earth. Arcing produces more than enough heat energy to melt wiring insulation and ignite a fire.
An AFCI breaker features a sensor that detects the current leakage that causes arcing even before arcing occurs, and the breaker trips and shuts off the electricity. The sensor can detect as little as 30 mA of current leakage. This process is similar to what happens inside a GFCI when it detects the current surge of a ground fault. However, the primary function of a GFCI is to prevent electrocution, while that of an AFCI is to prevent electrical fires. Both types of protection are required in various areas of the house by NEC, and dual-function GFCI/AFCI breakers that provide both ground-fault and arc-fault protection are becoming standard. The procedure for installing them is the same as that for conventional AFCI or GFCI breakers.
AFCI breakers have two distinguishing features that set them apart from conventional breakers. Despite being the same size and shape, they have a test button to check the current sensor’s functionality and a white coiled neutral wire for the internal circuit. Connecting the neutral wire to the breaker and the white pigtail to the panel’s neutral bus is the only difference in installation, making it slightly more complicated than a standard breaker.
Before installing or replacing any breakers, it is crucial to shut off the main circuit breaker to cut the electricity to all other breakers in the panel. However, turning off the main breaker does not de-energize the hot service wires or the lugs connected to the main circuit breaker. It is vital to avoid these parts while working inside the panel and to ensure that the panel has no power by using a noncontact voltage tester.
To install or replace an AFCI breaker, the first step is to turn off the main breaker, followed by removing the panel cover, and then testing the wires in the panel. The installation process is not overly complicated, and with the right tools, such as rubber-soled shoes, a headlamp, a Phillips screwdriver, a noncontact voltage tester, lineman pliers, a utility knife, and wire strippers, it can be completed safely.
Step 4: Optional Removal of Existing Breaker
To remove a breaker, grip its edges and pivot it outwards and away from the center of the panel. If it’s stuck, use lineman pliers to grab the breaker toggle for leverage. Some breakers have a notch on the end closer to the middle of the panel that allows you to pry that end up with a screwdriver. To remove the hot (typically black but sometimes red) wire attached to the breaker, loosen the lug on the breaker with a screwdriver and pull out the wire.
Step 5: Wire Preparation
If you’re installing a new circuit, feed the circuit cable in through a hole in the side or bottom of the panel. Pull out enough slack to reach the slot where the breaker goes and the ground bus, which is the bar to which all the ground wires are connected. Use a utility knife to remove enough cable sheathing to allow the white and black wires to reach the breaker slot and the ground wire to reach the ground bus. Strip insulation from the ends of the white and black wires using wire strippers. Use the strip gauge on the breaker to determine how much to remove.
Step 6: Connect the Circuit Neutral Wire to the Breaker
Switch the AFCI breaker you’re installing to the “off” position. Identify its two terminals. One breaker terminal is labeled “load neutral” or “white,” and the other is labeled “load power” or “black.” Connect the white neutral circuit wire to the load neutral terminal by loosening the lug, inserting the wire, and tightening the lug to secure the wire using a screwdriver. Get the lug tight. If you’re replacing an existing breaker, remove the white wire for that circuit from the neutral bus and connect it to the load neutral terminal of the breaker.
Step 7: Connect the Breaker Neutral Pigtail to the Panel
Loosen the lug on an available slot on the neutral bus. Insert the white coiled neutral pigtail wire leading from the breaker and tighten the lug. Use an open slot for the pigtail; never connect more than one wire to a single slot.
Step 8: Connect the Hot Wire and Ground Wire
Loosen the lug that says “load power” on the breaker. Insert the black hot circuit wire and tighten the lug. If it isn’t already connected, connect the circuit ground wire to an available lug on the ground bus.
Step 9: Install the Breaker in the Panel
Snap the breaker into the open slot on the panel. Hook the outside end to a tab and push down on the other end until the breaker snaps into place on the hot bus bar. The new breaker should be flush with the surrounding breakers; if it’s not flush, it’s not fully seated in place.
Step 10: Reinstall the Cover and Reestablish Electricity
Place the panel cover back into position and secure it using the screws provided. Turn off all branch circuit breakers. Restore power to the panel by turning on the main breaker, followed by each branch breaker individually. Press the test button on the new AFCI breaker to trip it, confirming the correct wiring and functionality of the breaker. Reset the AFCI breaker by pressing its reset button. If the AFCI is powering a new circuit, make sure to label the breaker before closing the door.
FAQ
1. What is an AFCI breaker and why is it important to install one?
An AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breaker is a type of circuit breaker that provides protection against electrical fires caused by arc faults. Arc faults occur when there is a loose or damaged wire, which can generate heat and potentially ignite nearby flammable materials. Installing an AFCI breaker is crucial because it can detect these dangerous arc faults and quickly interrupt the circuit to prevent fires.
2. How do I choose the right AFCI breaker for my electrical panel?
When selecting an AFCI breaker, you need to consider the electrical panel’s compatibility and the specific requirements of your electrical system. Firstly, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for your panel to ensure that it can accommodate AFCI breakers. Secondly, determine the amp rating required for your circuit by considering the current load and the wire gauge. Lastly, decide between a combination AFCI breaker, which provides protection against both parallel and series arc faults, or a branch/feeder AFCI breaker, which only protects against parallel arc faults.
3. What are the steps to install a new or replacement AFCI breaker?
To install a new or replacement AFCI breaker, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the main power to the electrical panel.
2. Remove the panel cover to access the circuit breaker area.
3. Identify the circuit for which you want to install the AFCI breaker.
4. Carefully remove the existing breaker by pulling it straight out.
5. Install the AFCI breaker in the same slot, making sure it is securely seated.
6. Connect the hot wire to the breaker’s terminal, ensuring a tight connection.
7. Attach the neutral wire to the neutral bar in the panel.
8. Close the panel cover and turn the main power back on.
Remember to always follow safety precautions and consult a professional electrician if you are unsure about any step of the installation process.