Homeowner’s Guide to Installing AFCI Breakers in Providence

Should I Install Afci Breakers

As a homeowner in Providence, Rhode Island, you take great pride in your property. You want to make sure that everything is in top condition, which means keeping up with maintenance and repairs. As important as it is to make sure that the exterior of your home looks great, it’s just as essential to pay attention to the hidden components that keep your home running smoothly. One of these crucial components is your electrical system. And when it comes to electrical safety, one question that often arises is whether or not to install AFCI breakers. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of AFCI breakers and help you determine if they are the right choice for your home in Washington Park, Providence.

Before we dive into why AFCI breakers may be essential for your home, let’s first take a closer look at B&K Electric. Based in Warwick, B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. They specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making them the go-to electricians for many homeowners and businesses in the Warwick area. But what truly sets B&K Electric apart is their strong commitment to their community and providing exceptional customer service.

Now, let’s get back to the topic at hand – AFCI breakers. AFCI or Arc-fault Circuit Interrupter breakers provide an additional level of protection for your home’s electrical system. They are specifically designed to detect and prevent fire hazards caused by overheating or arcing in electrical circuits. These arcing or sparking events could be caused by damaged wiring, loose connections, or other electrical faults that would typically go undetected by traditional circuit breakers. To give you a better understanding, let’s take a closer look at the benefits of AFCI breakers.

Prevents Electrical Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2018, electrical fires accounted for over 24,000 residential fires, resulting in over 800 injuries, 320 deaths, and $893 million in property damage. These fires are often caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or other electrical malfunctions. AFCI breakers can help prevent these types of fires by detecting and interrupting electrical malfunctions before they have a chance to escalate. This added layer of protection is especially crucial if your home is over 20 years old, as the risk of electrical fires increases with the age of your home.

Meets Electrical Code Standards

In 2002, the National Electrical Code (NEC) began requiring AFCI breakers to be installed in new homes. Since then, most states, including Rhode Island, have adopted this code as part of their building regulations. If your home was built after 2002, chances are you already have AFCI breakers installed. However, if you live in an older home, it’s essential to have AFCI breakers installed to meet current electrical code standards.

Suitable for Multiple Areas in Your Home

AFCI breakers can be installed on all electric circuits in your home, including bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. These areas are at a higher risk of electrical fires due to the use of appliances, electronics, and other electrical devices. Additionally, if you have a home office or workshop, AFCI breakers are a must-have to protect these areas as well.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

If you already have a licensed electrician like B&K Electric servicing your home, installing AFCI breakers will be a breeze. It’s a relatively simple procedure that involves replacing your existing breakers with AFCI breakers. And once installed, they require minimal maintenance, just like traditional circuit breakers. Regularly testing your AFCI breakers is recommended to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Cost-effective Option

While AFCI breakers may cost more than traditional circuit breakers, they can potentially save you money in the long run. In the event of an electrical fire, the damage can be extensive, leading to costly repairs and replacements. The cost of installing AFCI breakers is a small price to pay for peace of mind and added protection for your home.

The decision to install AFCI breakers is ultimately up to you as a homeowner. However, considering the benefits they offer, they are certainly worth considering. As a licensed electrician with years of experience serving the Washington Park, Providence area, we at B&K Electric highly recommend installing AFCI breakers for your home’s safety. Remember, electrical fires can happen unexpectedly, and it’s always better to be proactive and invest in the safety of your home and loved ones.

Topics:

AFCI Breakers,

Electrical Safety,

Home Maintenance