Code Q&A

Q. What outlets in a dwelling unit are required to be AFCI protected? A. All 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits that supply outlets in dwelling unit bedrooms must be protected by a listed AFCI device . According to Art. 100, an outlet is a point in the ...

Mike Holt

March 23, 2005

Q. What outlets in a dwelling unit are required to be AFCI protected?

A. All 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits that supply outlets in dwelling unit bedrooms must be protected by a listed AFCI device [210.12(B)]. According to Art. 100, an outlet is a point in the wiring system where electric current is taken to supply a load. This would include receptacle outlets, lighting outlets, and outlets for paddle fans and smoke detectors.

Note: The 120V circuit limitation means that AFCI protection isn’t required for equipment rated 230V, such as a baseboard heater or room air-conditioner equipment.

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About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.