An AFCI is a product that is designed to detect a wide range of arcing electrical faults to help reduce the electrical system from being an ignition source of a fire. Conventional overcurrent protective devices do not detect low level hazardous arcing currents that have the potential to initiate electrical fires.

How does arc-fault protection work?

How do arc fault breakers work? Arc Fault Breakers work by monitoring the electrical circuit for signs of electrical arcs faults. When the arc fault breaker registers an arc fault, it immediately breaks the circuit cutting power to prevent electrical fires.

Why are AFCI breakers so expensive?

Poorly installed electronics (such as a ceiling fan) can cause your newly installed AFCI breaker to constantly trip. If this is the case, the electrician will need to fix the faulty wiring in order for the AFCI breaker to work properly and this will increase your overall cost.