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Friday, November 13, 2020

Question:

Hello and Good Day,

I want to replace my panel in my house. I need to add another six circuits, and the panel does not have enough space. I do have 100 amp coming to the existing panel, and that would be the size I will replace it with, but with more spaces. In the new panel, do I need to change all the old circuit to AFCI, or can I leave them with the original breaker types? I will put AFCI or GFCI on all the new circuits, but I was wondering about the 20 old ones.

Thanks,

Don Grams

A

Answer:

Hi Don,

In section 210.12(D) Exception does address existing branch circuit extensions or modifications. It states that AFCI protection shall not be required where the extension of the existing branch circuit conductors is not more than 1.8 m (6 ft) and does not include any additional outlets or devices other than splicing devices. This measurement shall not include the conductors inside an enclosure, cabinet, or junction box. It is also a good idea to contact the authority having jurisdiction to be sure there are no local code amendments that might be more restrictive than the minimums in the NEC relative to this installation. 

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