Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are newly-developed electrical devices designed to protect against fires caused by arcing faults in the home electrical wiring. An AFCI provides a higher level of protection than a standard circuit breaker by detecting and removing the hazardous arcing condition before it becomes a fire hazard.
AFCI Tips
- If you have a home without AFCIs, consult a qualified, licensed electrician about adding this important protection.
- Have AFCIs installed on all general purpose circuits throughout the home, particularly in older homes where arcing hazards could have developed over several years.
Press Releases
- ESFI Encourages Consumers to Install AFCIs
- ESFI: Is Your Home Safe?
- ESFI Urges Adoption of New Electrical Code
- Life-Saving AFCI's Gain Momentum in Electrical Construction
- Consumer Product Safety Commission on Preventing Home Fires: AFCIs
- Plugging into Electrical Safety
Quick Facts/Statistics
- The Electrical Safety Foundation Fact Sheet on AFCIs
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on AFCIs
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on Structure Fires in Family Dwellings
- NFPA U.S. Fire Problem Overview Report
- CPSA Fact Sheet on AFCIs
