<P> AFCI receptacles contain electronic components to monitor a circuit for the presence of dangerous arcing conditions . Based upon an established threshold in the sine wave, the AFCI can be triggered to quickly react and de-power a circuit if dangerous arcing is detected . </P> <P> When installed as the first outlet on a branch circuit, AFCI receptacles provide series arc protection for the entire branch circuit . They also provide parallel arc protection for the branch circuit starting at the AFCI receptacle . Unlike AFCI breakers, AFCI receptacles may be used on any wiring system regardless of the panel . </P> <P> Starting with the 1999 version of the National Electrical Code in the United States, and the 2002 version of the Canadian Electrical Code in Canada, the national codes require AFCIs in all circuits that feed outlets in bedrooms of dwelling units . As of the 2014 NEC, AFCI protection is required on all branch circuits supplying outlets or devices installed in dwelling unit kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas, and similar rooms and areas . They are also required in dormitory units . This requirement may be accomplished by using a "combination type" breaker--a specific kind of circuit - breaker defined by UL 1699--in the breaker panel that provides combined arc - fault and overcurrent protection or by using an AFCI receptacle for modifications / extensions, as replacement receptacles or in new construction, at the first outlet on the branch . Not all U.S. jurisdictions have adopted the NEC's AFCI requirements so it is important to check local code requirements . </P> <P> The AFCI is intended to prevent fire from arcs . AFCI circuit breakers are designed to meet one of two standards as specified by UL 1699: "branch" type or "combination" type (note: the Canadian Electrical Code uses different terminology but similar technical requirements). A branch type AFCI trips on 75 amperes of arcing current from the line wire to either the neutral or ground wire . A combination type adds series arcing detection to branch type performance . Combination type AFCIs trip on 5 amperes of series arcing . </P>

Where do you have to use afci breakers