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Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Question:
Hello, I am a home owner who is doing all my wiring for a cabin I am building in the mountains. I took out my permit in May of 2014 and am just now getting my final inspection completed. I failed the first time because of not installing non tamper proof receptacles throughout. It's a pain but I've got those replaced now. The other reason for failure is ARC Fault and dual function breakers. My question is about ARC Fault and dual function breakers. When did dual function breakers come about and what's the best way to explain which ones should be installed where? Am I bound to NEC codes for 2016 or 2014 when I first pulled the permit? Is there any change in the two years regarding this? Thanks in advance for clarification on this.
Paul Ferguson
A
Answer:
Hey Paul thanks for your questions. I don't know exactly when dual function AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers first became available but think it was some time in 2014, from at least one manufacturer. GFCI protection can be provided using GFCI type receptacles supplied from an AFCI circuit breaker if both types of protection are required. The general rules for Dwelling Unit GFCI receptacle protection is in 210.8(A). AFCI protection for Dwelling Units is in 210.12. Typically the applicable NEC edition is the one that was adopted at the time the permit was obtained, that question is best answered by the permit office personnel.