Skinny on AFCI

Windows

I am rewiring a couple of bedrooms and have been reading conflicting info on AFCI - I hope someone can give me the straight goods.

1 - Does the requirement for new construction to have AFCI protection for lights and outlets in nearly all 'habitable areas' have any bearing on remodels?

2 - I have read both that hard wired smoke detectors should only be on AFCI protected circuits and also, that they should never be. Which is it?

3 - On a related side note, do I need to keep Cat6 and coaxial cables separated from electrical cables?

Thanks.

Jim Port

Normally, any new installation needs to meet the codes enforced at the time, regardless of new construction or remodel.

The NEC requires the smoke alarms to be AFCI protected.

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Answers based on the National Electrical Code. Local amendments may apply. Check with your local building officials.

md2lgyk

All depends on the code version you fall under. Jurisdictions don't always immediately update to a new version of a code. When I built my house in 2009, the applicable code was NEC 2005. Only the bedrooms were required to have AFCI protection.

stickboy1375

As a side note, some states have amendments not requiring smokes to be AFCI protected such as Connecticut, so its really in your best interest to check your states websites for state electrical amendments.

This applies to other code sections in the NEC as well, not just AFCI's and Smokes, I was just using it as an example.

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Windows

THanks for the help. THis project is starting to come together.

Hardway

When did NEC go into effect AFCI and smoke alarm.

stickboy1375

2005 I believe. Afci is required for every outlet in every bedroom, a smoke alarm is an outlet.

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k_buz

Feed the smokes with some other existing circuit, then they don't have to be AFCI protected.

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stickboy1375

I don't understand? A smoke alarm is an outlet, therefore requires afci protection unless your state has an amendment.

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k_buz

We are on 2008 and only require AFCI's on new circuits.

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herdfan

Yes, 12" and cross at 90 degrees.

Jim Port

AFCI requirements started in the 1999 NEC with an adaption in 1/2001 IIRC for bedroom receptacles. The next step was bedroom outlets. The requirement has expanded since then and now covers most areas not protected by a GFI.

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Answers based on the National Electrical Code. Local amendments may apply. Check with your local building officials.

Hardway

Time flies and it was late at night when I read this. I was aware of AGFI for outlets, was not concerning smoke alarms. How ever as I read this, this morning, it is over ten years since the place was built and wired. I am a bit behind on the code, by reading DIY I catch up. Thanks for the info.

electures

K Buz, what state?

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k_buz

Wisconsin

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