Coming down the Pike- New AFCI rules for 2014

Well there is a buzz  in the electrical world with the upcoming adoption of the 2014 NEC, (on July 1, 2014 for Washington State). The big one is in regards to AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection, and now all the areas they are to cover. (Here is an article from 2012 on why AFCI protection-  Link )

But now the debate rages on about the new rules from the 2014 NEC in regards to these devices, their cost versus protection they provide.

2014 NEC article- 210.12Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection

Arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection shall be provided as required in 210.12(A) (B), and (C). The arc-fault circuit interrupter shall be installed in a readily accessible location.

(A) Dwelling Units. (Bold and underlined is mine)

All 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets or devices installed in dwelling unit kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by any of the means described in 210.12(A)(1) through (6):

So basically the 2014 NEC will require AFCIs in all homes (dwelling units) for all 15 and 20 amp 120v circuits except for bathrooms and garages.

Now here is the real kicker that has some electricians really going crazy-

210.12Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection

(B) Branch Circuit Extensions or Modifications — Dwelling Units.

In any of the areas specified in 210.12(A), where branch-circuit wiring is modified, replaced, or extended, the branch circuit shall be protected by one of the following:

A listed combination-type AFCI located at the origin of the branch circuit

A listed outlet branch-circuit type AFCI located at the first receptacle outlet of the existing branch circuit.

Exception: AFCI protection shall not be required where the extension of the existing conductors is not more than 1.8 m (6 ft) and does not include any additional outlets or devices.

This means if you modify a branch circuit,  that modification will require that the affected circuit will now have to be AFCI protected.

Update- There is a difference of opinion in regards to the following section of the code from the head and local jurisdictions. Clarification should come in the following months. As it stands it is of my opinion that when receptacles are replaced in locations that require AFCI protection that they should meet the requirements listed in Subsection (4).

If you have not read  this article from Doug Hansen it is worth a read-  AFCIs Come of Age

Let the debate begin!!!

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