AFCI Wiring?

[ddawg16]

I'm in the planning stages of the 2-story addition to my house....

Part of this will include a new main panel....I know I will have to use AFCI for the new addition.....

But....will I need to adapt the existing house wiring to AFCI? And if so, will it need to be 3 wire (grounded) for it to work?

House was built in the 50's....hence, only 2 wires...Hot and Neut.

 

[1Garageman]

I am subscribing to this!

 

[mrb]

not 100% sure but i dont think you would need to put afcis on existing circuits, but ask your ahj. they need neutral per circuit.

 

[Aceman]

When we do service/panel changes, we don't upgrade the existing circuits to AFCI's. But, if we add any new circuits at the same time, that require AFCI protection, we do it.

 

[cowboyjosh]

Typically not, only your addition and remodel will have to be to current code, but as always check with your local AHJ.

If your budget allows I'd think about taking the opportunity to re-wire and get rid of the old 2 wire type Romex or re-wire as much as you can access.

Oh, and for a great new panel, go for Square D QO (worlds finest).

 

[Norcal]

When we do service/panel changes, we don't upgrade the existing circuits to AFCI's. But, if we add any new circuits at the same time, that require AFCI protection, we do it.

This is correct, any new circuits or addition to a circuit will require AFCI's (Snake Oil).

 

[Norcal]

Typically not, only your addition and remodel will have to be to current code, but as always check with your local AHJ.

If your budget allows I'd think about taking the opportunity to re-wire and get rid of the old 2 wire type Romex or re-wire as much as you can access.

Oh, and for a great new panel, go for Square D QO (worlds finest).[/QUOTE]

If the panel is about 25 years or older, SQ D is very good quality, built today, they are just a another cheap quality product, skating on a past reputation....

Since the OP is in CA, the land of the "all in one" panel the only choice is HOMOLINE if SQ D is chosen. (OQ was dropped years ago) HOM is AL bussed.

 

[boozer]

I was under the impression that AFCI's were only required on circuits that served bedrooms.... is this incorrect? I have rewired half of my house (upgrading old BX cable to 12-2 w/ gr. romex) but haven't replaced any of the breakers yet....

I am also planning a kitchen addition for this summer, so it would be nice to know.

 

[aandpdan]

I was under the impression that AFCI's were only required on circuits that served bedrooms.... is this incorrect?

Depends on what version of the Code your AHJ requires.

Here's the latest:

210.12(B) Dwelling Units

All 120-volt single-phase 15 and 20 amp branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sun rooms, rec rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc fault circuit interrupter, combination type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.

You don't need them in the kitchen/bath.

 

[Gregdoo]

Short hi-jack: I've got a similar question.....house built in the 60s with all wiring in conduits. The lights and outlets in the bedroom are on several separate circuits...I'm wanting to add additional outlets in said bedroom...would I need to add AFCI to all circuits feeding the bedroom or just the one I'm intending to add additional recepticals to?

Thanks!