If a person comes into contact with a leaking current, they could be severely shocked or electrocuted.

Ground faults occur when there is a leaking current. If there is an AFCI that does NOT trip, contact a certified electrician right away to replace it.Repeat these steps for every AFCI breaker in your service panel.Flip the breaker switch all the way OFF before turning it back ON.If the breaker trips when you press the “TEST” button, the AFCI is working.The AFCI breaker should trip and move the switch to the OFF position (or the middle “TRIP” position if there is one).With your breaker in the on position and at least one device turned on in the circuit, press down on the AFCI “TEST” button.

Leave lights and other devices on (make sure you save your work on desktop computers).This can lead to a destructive electrical fire.įollow these steps to test your AFCI breakers every month: Without working AFCIs, you may have an arc fault that can go undetected by your electrical panel. How to Test Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)ĪFCIs protect against electrical hazards known as “arc faults,” which can occur when there are damaged, overheated, or stressed electrical wiring and devices. Regardless of where they are installed, it’s a good idea to test all your AFCIs and GFCIs once a month. They can be installed directly into outlets and receptacles or installed in the electrical panel, although you will commonly find GFCIs installed in outlets and AFCIs installed in service panels. Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) provide protection against arc faults and ground faults (electrical fires and electrical shocks respectfully).

Gfci and afci on same circuit