Should I Install AFCI Breakers?

Should I Install Afci Breakers

As a homeowner in zip code 02903, Downtown Providence, Rhode Island, you may be considering whether or not to install arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) breakers in your home. As the owner of B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, that has proudly served the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years, I want to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

First, let’s start with the basics. AFCI breakers are electrical safety devices designed to protect your home from potential fire hazards caused by arc faults. Arc faults occur when there is a breakdown in the electrical system, causing electricity to flow through an unintended path. This can lead to overheating and arcing, which can ignite surrounding materials and start a fire. Unlike traditional circuit breakers that only protect against overcurrent, AFCI breakers are specifically designed to detect and interrupt arcing faults, providing an extra level of protection for your home and family.

So why should you consider installing AFCI breakers in your home? The simple answer is safety. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), arc faults are responsible for over 28,000 home fires each year, resulting in nearly 400 deaths and over 1,200 injuries. In fact, arc faults are the leading cause of home electrical fires, surpassing even lightning strikes and other natural causes. And with the majority of home fires occurring between the hours of midnight and 6am, when most people are asleep, it’s easy to see why taking precautions against these hidden dangers is crucial.

But what about the cost? AFCI breakers are more expensive than traditional circuit breakers, so it’s natural to question whether the added cost is worth it. The truth is, the cost of installing AFCI breakers is a small price to pay when compared to the potential cost of a home fire. Not only can a fire cause significant damage to your property, but it can also put the lives of your loved ones at risk. And with insurance companies increasingly requiring AFCI breakers in new homes, installing them now may save you money in the long run by potentially reducing your home insurance premiums.

In addition to the safety benefits, installing AFCI breakers may also be beneficial for your home’s value. As a licensed electrician, I have seen firsthand the increase in demand for homes equipped with AFCI breakers. Homebuyers are becoming more educated about the potential fire hazards in traditional electrical systems and are actively seeking out homes with AFCI protection. Installing AFCI breakers in your home now can make it more appealing to potential buyers in the future and may even increase its resale value.

Now, you may be wondering if you can simply install AFCI outlets instead of AFCI breakers to save on cost. While AFCI outlets may provide some protection, they are not as effective as AFCI breakers. AFCI outlets can only protect the devices that are plugged into them, while AFCI breakers protect the entire circuit. Additionally, AFCI outlets can become damaged or wear down over time, rendering them useless, whereas AFCI breakers are more durable and long-lasting.

So, what does the process of installing AFCI breakers involve? As a homeowner, you should always hire a licensed electrician to handle your electrical needs. AFCI breakers require professional installation, as they need to be properly connected to the main electrical panel in order to function correctly. At B&K Electric, our team has the experience and expertise to safely and efficiently install AFCI breakers in your home, providing you with peace of mind.

As a homeowner in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island, it is important to consider installing AFCI breakers in your home for the safety of your family, the protection of your property, and the potential increase in value. While they may come at a higher cost, the benefits far outweigh the expense in the long run. Whether you are building a new home or considering upgrades for your current electrical system, I highly recommend installing AFCI breakers. Trust B&K Electric, your go-to licensed electrician in the Warwick and greater Providence area, to provide you with quality service and ensure the safety of your home.

Topics:

AFCI breakers,

electrical safety,

Rhode Island