Tip #7: What are AFCI Devices?

Functions: AFCI Receptacle Vs AFCI Breaker

         Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) receptacle is intended to be installed as the first outlet in a branch circuit. It provides protection to downstream and upstream branch-circuit wiring, cord sets and power supply cords against the unwanted effects of arcing. 

            AFCI breakers are intended to protect downstream branch-circuit wiring and cord sets, as well as power supply cords. 

            Receptacles are a less expensive, code-approved alternative to AFCI breakers.

Locations & Requirements

         All 120volt, 15 and 20amp branch circuits supplying outlets installed in kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms, libraries, dens, bedrooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas or similar rooms shall be protected by AFCI. 

New construction requires extended or modified branch circuits to be protected by AFCI. Receptacles that require replacement overtime, need to be replaced with AFCI receptacles. AFCI/GFCI combination receptacles requirements may vary by location/city.  

Testing your AFCI Device

AFCI receptacles are designed to be tested on a monthly basis. To test the AFCI, you must press the “Test” button and make sure the power is off. Then you must press on the “Reset” button and make sure the power is back on. If neither button works, the device must be replaced.

AFCI breakers have a similar test function. To test an AFCI breaker, you must press the “Test” button and make sure the breaker trips. If the breaker successfully trips, you will see the switch move to a middle position between the ON and OFF position. Then you must move the switch to the OFF position before moving to the ON position (The breaker will not allow you to move the switch from the middle position to the ON position. You must go from the middle, to the OFF position, then to the ON position to ensure it successfully turned back on). If it trips again when moving the switch to the ON position, contact a licensed and insured master electrician to determine the problem.

Tip #6: Installing WR Receptacles in Wet Areas

Functions of WR Receptacles

         Weather-Resistant (WR) receptacles offer protection from rain, snow, ice, moisture, and humidity when properly installed in an approved weather protective or while-in-use cover. WR receptacles are made with enhanced nylon and corrosion resistant metal components, which makes them extra durable.

Locations & Requirements

         All receptacles installed in or near wet and damp locations are required to be WR and installed in an approved weatherproof enclosure. WR receptacles are for use in any residential or commercial outdoor locations.

Devices are required to have a “WR” marking on the face, when installed. Combination Tamper & Weather Resistant (TR & WR) receptacles ensure safety and weather resistance in wet and damp outdoor locations. TR/WR combination receptacle requirements may vary by location/city.  

Tip #5: Protecting Your Electronics and Appliances!

Types of Surge Protectors

         Surge protector power strips often look just like normal power strips. Most power strips are just extension cords without any protection. Surge protector power strips actually help protect your electronics against power surges, so you might want to double check when purchasing power strips. Surge protectors often have a “Protected” or “Protection” light on them that lights up when they’re plugged in. If you read the fine print, you may see “suppressed voltage rating”, “protection”, or “suppression”, which means you have a surge protector.

            The most common type of surge protector is the surge breaker, which is designed to provide complete home surge protection for sensitive electronics and appliances from damaging effects of surges. Surge breakers are installed in your electric circuit breaker box or main point of power entry to your home, whether the box is indoors or outdoors. This is the most convenient way to protect your complete home instead of buying multiple surge protector power strips and having them laying all over your home.

Are Surge Protection Devices Required?

            Surge Protectors are not required, but highly recommended in areas with high exposure to lightning. If you really want to protect your appliances, we recommend a whole-home surge protector breaker over a surge protector power strip, as it will protect your appliances from large voltage spikes from nearby lighting strikes. Surge breakers will typically cost anywhere from $100 - $200, but they can save you thousands of dollars in the long run!

Tip #4: Why You Should Replace Outdated Receptacles with TR Receptacles!

Difference between TR and old style receptacles

         Tamper-Resistant (TR) receptacles contain a built-in shutter system that allows plugs to be inserted ONLY when equal pressure is applied simultaneously to both sides of the receptacle. TR receptacles reduce the risk of electrical injuries, but are not completely tamper-proof. Many people believe that TR receptacles are child-proof, which they aren’t, but they are intended to increase safety for children, much safer than old style receptacles.

            Old style receptacles don't contain this built-in shutter system, therefore the risk of anyone (especially a child) to get electrocuted is much higher. Some parents that have old style receptacle usually purchase plastic outlet plugs to cover the slots on the receptacles so children won’t insert anything into the slots. These plugs can be a chocking hazard to children if they are able to remove them, or if people forget to reinsert them after using the receptacle.

Locations & Requirements

            All 125volt, 15 or 20amp receptacles are required to be listed as tamper-resistant receptacles in all areas (commercial and residential) where children will be present. Typically, commercial spaces and office buildings do not require TR receptacles. All new outlets installed in old or new construction must also be TR receptacles.

            Combination Tamper & Water Resistant (TR & WR) receptacles ensure safety and weather resistance in wet and damp outdoor locations. TR & WR receptacle requirements may vary by location/city.