GFCI and AFCI protection are now code requirements in new construction — but most older homes never had them installed. If your home was built before the mid-1990s, there’s a good chance you’re missing both.
What Is a GFCI Outlet?
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets detect tiny current imbalances — the kind that happen when electricity is flowing through a person — and cut power in milliseconds. They’re required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoors, and near any water source.
What Is an AFCI Breaker?
AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breakers detect dangerous arcs in wiring — the kind that cause house fires — before the arc becomes a fire. Standard breakers don’t detect arcs. Current code requires AFCI breakers on bedroom circuits in most jurisdictions.
The CPSC estimates that arc faults cause over 28,000 house fires per year. AFCI breakers are specifically designed to prevent this type of ignition.
Where Do You Need Them?
GFCI: anywhere within 6 feet of a sink, all bathroom circuits, all garage circuits, all outdoor circuits, unfinished basements, and crawl spaces.
AFCI: all bedroom circuits, and in newer code versions, all living areas. If your home is over 20 years old, an inspection will tell you exactly what’s required.