Inspectors Push for Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter in New Homes - WBOY-TV

FAIRMONT -- A device that helps prevent electrical fires could become mandatory in new home construction.

The device is called an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter. It is similar to a normal circuit breaker, but has a special feature that can detect electrical problems that can cause fires.

It is already being used in many bedroom circuits, but some people are pushing to have it used throughout the home.

Just last month, an electrical fire destroyed Mary's Restaurant in downtown Kingwood.

Electrical fires are the cause of 10 percent of all residential fires, according to 2007 statistics from the State Fire Marshal's office.

The Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter, or AFCI, could help prevent the flames.

"They prevent fires, add increased safety, and detect a lose connection," said Jack Jamison.

Jamison is a third party electrical inspector. He explains that the AFCI is designed to protect against fires caused by arching faults in home electrical wiring.

"It would detect the arching. It could be a lose connection, broken wire, or lamp cord plugged into a device," said Jamison.

Right now, state fire code requires AFCI's to be used in circuits in the bedroom, but some officials are pushing to make stricter codes, that would make the Arc Fault a requirement in all living spaces.

At a typical hardware store, a normal breaker would cost $4, but the Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter will run anywhere from $30-$40.

Jamison estimates a 2500 square foot home, would require about 12 arc fault breakers, costing close to $500. For Jamison, it's a fair price to pay for safety.

"It's just more modern technology," said Jamison.

The problem is not that the breakers cost $35 to $40 dollars each. It is in fact that after the contractor adds his profit, and the builder adds his mark-up , the customer gets a breaker that will cost $70 to $80 dollars. And when one builder or customer complains to the local area building association, then all thoughts on safety go right out the window. Its a shame and the builders should be ashamed for not pushing safety first.

Also, if he had done his load calculations, he would have realized the minimum number of 15 amp branch circuits for a 2500 sq. ft. house is 5. I don't know how he figures that he needs 12 arc-fault breakers..

Duh? Just adopt the 2008 National Electrical Code, it requires AFCI's on all circuits except bathroom, basement, garage and outside circuits. It wouldn't have helped in the restaurant because they are not required there. The AFCI's can be put into new houses, the only thing stopping them are their high price - $35~40 per breaker vs $4. But then again, people don't put as high a value on safety as they do fancy windows, doors or carpet.

The 2008 National Electrical Code requires Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similiar rooms or areas. They are not just for bedrooms.

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