The last dangerous arc fault in our series also happens to be one of the most elusive, they tend to develop in areas of the home that are closed off and difficult to reach. When this form of arc fault does reveal itself the aftereffects are often devastating.
This particular type of arc fault is usually a result of damaged Circuit Conductors, circuit conductors are the wires that travel from the Electrical Panel to specific junction points e.g., outlets, switches and dedicated appliances.
A circuit conductor can become damaged in a number of ways, but the most common are; during installation, while drilling or screwing through a wall, and from rodents chewing on them.
Because of the location of the circuit conductors, the only true method for protection against this type of arc fault is an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter or AFCI. An AFCI is an electrical device that differentiates between normal and dangerous arc faults, once a dangerous arc fault is detected power to the circuit is shut off.
There are two options available for AFCI protection, the first is a combination AFCI circuit breaker that must be installed at the Electrical Panel. This is the preferred option since the device is able to protect the entire circuit. The second option is an AFCI outlet. This device must be installed at the first junction point of the circuit in order to be effective. The only part of the circuit that won't be protected is the conductor that travels from the Electrical Panel to that first junction point.
Knowing the dangerous arc fault potentials in your home is an important first step in reducing the risk of occurrence, but the biggest factor in protection is you.
I hope you've enjoyed this five part series of Know Your Arc Faults, if you have any questions or comments feel free to share them in the comments section below. Until next time.
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