Re; testing Arch Fault circuit Interrupters

[daniel nantell]

What is the correct test on the AFCI in the newer Homes., thanks

[Jerry Peck]

1) Make sure all the breakers are on.

2) Make sure ALL the receptacle outlets have power and proper polarity, ALL OF the lighting outlets work, ALL of the smoke alarms are on - in ALL the associated rooms (family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas).

3) Push the test button on all of the AFCI breakers and make sure the AFCI breakers trip off.

4) Make sure NONE the receptacle outlets have power, NONE of the lighting outlets work, NONE of the smoke alarms are on - in ALL the associated rooms (family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas).

That is really the ONLY correct way to test AFCI devices - with their own test button, and that is really the most efficient way to check what is on the AFCI circuits.

[John Kogel]

What Jerry said, except for Canadian inspectors, it's bedrooms only, plus the bedroom lighting can be on a regular non-AFCI circuit.

[daniel nantell]

Does that Upset the Family thats residing there , when their computer crashes --some of the clocks without battery backup have to be reset ?

[Jerry Peck]

Does that Upset the Family thats residing there , when their computer crashes --some of the clocks without battery backup have to be reset ?


It could, but there is no other way to test them, and that is what you asked "What is the correct test on the AFCI in the newer Homes.".

You could always disclaim testing them, but then how do you know what is AFCI protected and what it not?

[Ted Menelly]

Does that Upset the Family thats residing there , when their computer crashes --some of the clocks without battery backup have to be reset ?


So

I guess you never test AFCIs when the home is lived in? If someone is watching tele I will inform them that I am testing breakers and the tele may go off. I also leave a note behind for home owners about testing the breakers and they may have to reset things. Most of the time around here the sellers are not home.

[daniel nantell]

Sound like a Increase In fee we charge , because if it is done right it will take more time, thanks again.

[Richard Stanley]

The current occupants are probably moving anyway - resetting clocks, timers, etc., is good practice for them.

[ken horak]

Does that Upset the Family thats residing there , when their computer crashes --some of the clocks without battery backup have to be reset ?

Simple as informing the current occupants that you will be shutting off the circuit breakers and they are to have all computers shut down and/or backed up. Clocks ? no big deal.

I would think if a HI chose NOT to properly test the arc fault breakers they are not doing their client any justice and would be doing a "shoddy" inspection.
Arc Faults are part of "life safety" system in a dwelling. Just as important as GFCI receptacles /breakers and smoke detectors. Would you not test the smoke detectors or GFCI's ?