What is the primary purpose of an AFCI?

The primary purpose of an AFCI, or Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter, is to prevent arc faults. An arc fault occurs when there is an unintentional discharge of electricity in a circuit, which can lead to electrical fires. AFCIs are specifically designed to detect these arc faults and interrupt the flow of electricity before they can cause damage.

These devices enhance safety by monitoring the electrical current and identifying patterns that indicate the presence of an arc. When such patterns are detected, the AFCI trips and discontinues power to that circuit, significantly reducing the fire risk associated with electrical malfunctions.

While overcurrent protection and grounding are important aspects of electrical safety, they are not the primary functions of an AFCI. Overcurrent protection is typically addressed by circuit breakers or fuses that protect against excessive current, while grounding is related to safely routing fault currents to the ground. Completing a circuit is a fundamental principle of electrical systems and does not pertain to the specific role of an AFCI. By focusing on the prevention of arc faults, AFCIs play a vital role in enhancing electrical safety in residential and commercial installations.