The electricity you rely on daily to power nearly every part of your household also carries risks. That’s why the National Electrical Code requires homes to have specialized devices called AFCI and GFCI breakers. These residential electrical safety devices protect against two prevalent hazards: arc faults that can spark fires and ground faults that can cause dangerous shocks.

What Are AFCI and GFCI Breakers?

Understanding the difference between AFCI and GFCI breakers, where to use each and their importance will minimize electrical dangers and help you avoid costly code violations.

What Does an AFCI Breaker Do?

Damaged, loose or frayed wiring creates tiny sparks that can ignite surrounding materials and cause house fires. An arc fault circuit interrupter breaker detects these electrical arcs and quickly shuts down the circuit, making it essential for fire prevention in wiring.

What Does a GFCI Breaker Do?

A ground fault circuit interrupter breaker protects people from electrical shock. It constantly monitors the flow of electricity and trips in milliseconds if an electric current escapes its intended path. Bathroom GFCI outlets, kitchen GFCI requirements and outdoor GFCI outlets are standard under NEC rules.

Key Differences Between AFCI vs. GFCI

Use this chart to quickly compare AFCI and GFCI purposes and installation locations.

Feature AFCI Breaker GFCI Breaker
Primary purpose Arc fault fire protection Ground fault shock prevention
Typical locations Bedrooms, living rooms, hallways Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, outdoor outlets
Hazard prevented Arc fires caused by damaged wiring Electrical shocks from water or faulty wiring

Arc Fault Protection vs. Ground Fault Protection

Arc faults and ground faults may sound similar, but they pose different risks. Arc fault protection focuses on wiring. Electricity can jump across gaps caused by worn-down insulation or loose connections. These high-temperature sparks often occur in unseen spaces like the areas behind walls, making them especially dangerous. AFCI breakers prevent fires by shutting down the circuit.

Ground fault protection safeguards people. A ground fault happens when electricity strays from its intended path and flows through an unintended conductor, like water or a person. GFCI breakers respond instantly, cutting power before a shock can cause severe injuries.

Where Each Type Is Typically Used in the Home

Combining these safety features addresses the hidden dangers of wiring and the immediate risks to anyone using electricity in your home. Therefore, it makes the most sense to place them where they will prevent the hazards most likely to occur in different areas.

  • AFCI protection is common in living spaces where damaged cords or outdated wiring could spark with no warning.
  • GFCI protection benefits areas where water and electricity might accidentally meet, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements and outdoor outlets.

Where AFCI Breakers Are Required in Your Home

According to NEC AFCI requirements, nearly all 120‑volt, single‑phase, 15‑ and 20‑amp branch circuits in habitable rooms must have AFCI protection. That includes bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, hallways, closets and home offices.

Where GFCI Breakers Are Required in Your Home

NEC GFCI requirements mandate protection in areas with high shock risk, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, unfinished basements, crawl spaces, utility rooms and all outdoor outlets. Even appliances like dishwashers and HVAC equipment may require GFCI protection under updated codes.

Why These Breakers Matter for Home Safety

Together, AFCI and GFCI breakers provide whole‑home electrical safety. AFCIs reduce fire hazards hidden in walls, while GFCIs prevent shocks near water. Installing both in your home complies with electrical code requirements and protects your family from two of the most serious residential wiring risks.

When to Call a Licensed Electrician About AFCI or GFCI

Breaker installation isn’t a DIY project. Call a licensed residential electrician if you need a breaker panel upgrade, circuit breaker replacement or home electrical inspection. A‑1 United’s team can install AFCI and GFCI breakers, ensure National Electrical Code compliance and keep your home safe year‑round.

Beyond breaker work, A1 United offers a full range of electrical services to meet your needs, including:

Whether you’re upgrading for safety, convenience or efficiency, A1 United is the preferred electrical contractor in Omaha, Council Bluffs and the surrounding communities. Call or text 402-593-7500 today to schedule professional service provided by an employee-owned company with decades of trusted expertise.