2023 AFCI and GFCI Performance Survey
In 2023, the Electrical Safety Foundation surveyed electrical contractor with experience in electrical contracting, design, engineering, and planning to gain an understanding of the performance of safety devices required in the National Electrical Code (NEC). This survey was conducted in Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Minnesota, Ohio, Texas, and Washington with a focus on Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters […]
Understand Your Breaker Box – Video Short
Your breaker box, or electrical panel, protects you against electrical shocks and fires. They trip when the electrical current exceeds safe levels. This helps protect your home against overloaded circuits. AFCIs should be installed in a breaker to detect wiring faults which protects against electrical fires. Installing a GFCI will protect against electrical shock in […]
ESFI Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Performance Survey
In May 2022, the Electrical Safety Foundation International surveyed homeowners, and electrical contractors to assess the performance of AFCI and GFCI devices in homes in Massachusetts. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts immediately adopted the 2020 National Electrical Code ® on January 1, 2020 with AFCI requirements for the entire home. Electrical Contractors ESFI surveyed 100 electrical […]
Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) Prevent Fires
Available as circuit breakers and receptacles. Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) protect against electrical fires from malfunctions. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that 50% of home electrical fires can be prevented by proper AFCI protection. Learn where AFCI protection is required in your home by the National Electrical Code: Bedrooms Closets Kitchens Laundry areas Living […]
AFCIs: Protecting Your Home From Fires
Home fires are more deadly and costly than ever. While the number of total fires and fire injuries is decreasing, property damage and fire deaths are on the rise. Each year arc-faults, caused by worn and inadequate wiring, overburdened circuits, outdated technology, and aging electrical systems, start more than 35,000 home fires causing over 1,130 […]
Fire Protection for Your Older Home
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), each year arc-faults, caused by worn and inadequate wiring, overburdened circuits, outdated technology, and aging electrical systems, start more than 35,000 home fires causing over 1,130 injuries, 500 deaths, and $1.4 billion in property damage. Many existing homes simply can’t handle the demands of today’s electrical appliances […]
Home Safety Devices – Renovate Your Home to Code
The National Electrical Code is revised every three years and outlines the minimum requirements for safe electrical installation. Many older homes may not have an adequate electrical system to meet the electrical demands of today. If you’re renovating your home, make sure to have the following electrical safety devices installed to maintain an electrically safe […]
Electrical Safety Public Service Announcement
Is your home up to the latest National Electrical Code? The National Electrical Code is designed to keep your home and your loved ones safe, but is only enforced with new construction. As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your property is up to code. You can accomplish this by having your […]
Do your Outlets Need an Upgrade?
Did you know that an electrical outlet can do much more than provide electricity? They can be life saving devices by preventing shocks, burns and even fires. Do your outlets need an upgrade? Learn about these specialized electrical outlets with added features to provide a safer home. The major specialized outlets are: Ground Fault […]
Outlets: The Ins and Outs Video
Do your Outlets Need an Upgrade? Did you know that an electrical outlet can do much more than provide electricity? They can be life saving devices by preventing shocks, burns and even fires. Do your outlets need an upgrade? Learn about these specialized electrical outlets with added features to provide a safer home. The major […]
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) Receptacles
NFPA reported 47,700 home fires involved some type of electrical failure or malfunction in 2011. Those fires resulted in 418 deaths, 1,570 injuries, and $1.4 billion direct property damage. However, the CPSC estimates more than 50% of electrical fires that occur every year could be prevented by AFCIs. How does it work? AFCI interrupts power […]
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): Advanced Electrical Fire Protection for the Home
Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are advanced safety devices that can prevent electrical fires before they even have a chance to start. AFCI Facts Many home electrical fires are started by arcing faults. Arcing faults happen when electrical wiring becomes damaged, stressed, overheated or worn. Wiring inside the wall can be damaged by nails, screws, […]
