New Receptacles Protect Homes from both Arc and Ground Faults
Faith’s new Dual Function AFCI/GFCI receptacle protects homeowners from the dangers of both arc and ground faults.
Homeowners may take wall receptacle installation for granted, but the fact is that they are protecting household occupants from unseen dangers. By incorporating ground and arc fault circulators into one wall receptacle, it decreases the odds of major home destruction or personal injuries.
Regarding the dual function AFCI/GFCI receptacles, the common homeowners may not understand why using this combination device is essential for complete safety. This is where a combined AFCI/GFCI receptacle makes a name for itself.
Why are Circuit Interrupters Important?
Circuit interrupters protect homes from the dangers caused by electrical shocks or arcs. These devices are standard in all homes or buildings, with the National Electrical Code mandating their use in 1971.
As far as we know, there are two types of circuit interrupters exist: ground fault (GFCI) and arc fault (AFCI).
GFCIs help prevent electrocutions thus are commonly found where circuits may accidentally come into contact with water. GFCIs are usually used at common rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas. According to the Energy Education Council, GFCIs can sense if an individual receives a shock and will immediately shut off power for added protection against electrocution.
However, GFCIs don’t guard against arc faults like AFCIs are able to. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association explained how AFCI receptacles prevent arc faults from occurring by sensing various arcing conditions, such as humidity or heat. Arc faults can heat particles 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit to finally ignite surrounding insulation or wood framework if left unchecked. ACFI receptacles are also capable of sensing hazardous arc faults and shutting off power when necessary.
The Benefits of a dual function AFCI/GFCI Receptacle
According to Faith, an all-encompassing receptacle offers both shock and fire protection in one convenient package that’s able to distinguish between an arc fault trip or a trip caused by a ground fault.
Additionally, the Faith branded AFCI/GFCI Receptacle meets NEC protection standards and offers the convenience of localized “test” and “reset” buttons on the device’s face.
Homeowners will even see a LED indicator light on the receptacle face that provides a visual representation on protection status. LED indicator indicates everything is working normal when it’s at off status, while a solid or flashing red indicates the device has tripped and needs to be reset.
Although electrical safety devices are required in every home, homeowners probably do not know clearly the difference between arc and ground fault dangers or do not know why there’s a need for two types of receptacles. Luckily, there’s a solution in the form of the Dual Function AFCI/GFCI Receptacle, which provides protection against ground and arc fault dangers in one convenient wall receptacle.
Post time: May-03-2023