If you’re a homeowner, you’re probably familiar with electrical outlets and circuit breakers. But have you heard of AFCI and GFCI protection? These essential safety features can save lives and prevent serious property damage, making them crucial for any home.

GFCI outlets have been around since the 1960s and were adopted into electrical code in the 1970s. When they detect electrical leakage current, they shut off, preventing you from receiving a shock from whatever is plugged into them. They’re required in certain areas of the home, such as bathrooms and kitchens, where water is present.

AFCI circuit breakers, on the other hand, were introduced in the early 2000s and are required to protect circuits in bedrooms. They detect electrical arcing from faulty wiring, such as loose connections or damaged wires, and shut off to prevent a possible electrical fire.

Newly built or renovated areas of a house will most likely require GFCI, AFCI, or a combination of these two technologies to meet National Electrical Code requirements. Luckily, combination GFCI/AFCI outlets and circuit breakers are now available, which let you cover all code requirements with just one device. Depending on your situation, you may be able to protect an entire group of regular outlets with only a single AFCI/GFCI combination circuit breaker, depending on the space available in your circuit breaker panel.

Upgrading to GFCI and AFCI protection is well worth doing. Not only is it necessary for code compliance, but it can also provide peace of mind and protection for you and your family. Contact Home Tek for a free evaluation and estimate to see how you can upgrade your home’s electrical system with AFCI and GFCI protection. Don’t wait until it’s too late to make your home safer.