All About Arcsa

Dec 07, 2020 | Electrical Rewire, Panel Upgrade, Smart Home

When Mario Castillo Electric performs a Panel Upgrade, we install arc faults as required by Code. An arc fault (also called AFCI) is an advanced circuit breaker that breaks the circuit when it detects a dangerous electric arc in the circuit that it protects. These devices are designed and required to be tested on a monthly basis to ensure proper and safe operation.

All breakers are designed to prevent the wiring from becoming overloaded and will automatically turn off if the circuit is overloaded. Arc fault breakers have the additional ability to sense arcing in a circuit. Arcing happens when loose or corroded wiring connect and cause an electrical current to spark - or arc. The hot wire touches a ground, but doesn’t trigger a traditional circuit breaker. Arcs are extremely hot and a serious fire hazard.

Electrical arcs can be caused by any number of factors, including damaged or worn wires, incorrect wiring, and loose or wet connections. Hearing buzzing or clicks in your outlets, switches and walls? We need to come inspect that ASAP.

However, electrical arcs can also be caused by older appliances or overloading the outlets. These “nuisance trips” are often annoying and frustrating. There are a few things you can try to fix these trips. Inspect the appliance, cord, or light that's plugged into the AFCI-protected circuit and try disconnecting the faulty item. Replace any appliances with damaged cords/wires. If you can’t locate the problem, it’s time to give us a call. Your home may need a rewire, as older homes often need new wiring to handle the required ARC faults. Arc fault works great with energy saving appliances, but the bigger guys tend to cause frequent trips. Rest assured, we can help diagnose the cause of your power trips and keep your home safe from an electrical fire.

Arc faults are necessary, but can be a hassle for the homeowner. Just give Mario Castillo Electric company - a licensed and insured electrician - a call and we’ll make sure your power stays on. We’ll let you know what issues we find, how much it will cost to fix it, and how long it will take. We offer a 6 month warranty on our work, so you can rest assured you’re making the right decision when you choose us!

Contact us today! Let’s make sure your home is safe, up to code, and ready to handle the electrical needs of today and the future.