Arc Fault Breakers

What is an Arc Fault?

How does arcing occur?

1) Naturally: Arching can occur naturally when a light switch is turned on or an appliance, such as a vacuum cleaner, has been switched on.

2) Unsafe occurrences: Arching can also occur in unsafe ways by a loose or corroded connection. These type of connection can make intermittent contact and can cause sparking or arching between those connections causing extreme heating which can break down the insulation in the wiring cause an electrical fire.

What is an example of an arc fault:

Often in older homes where wiring has been fastened or stapled too tightly, the electricity flowing though the wiring can begin to arc with the metal staple. Over time this can cause extreme heating and a breakdown in the insulation of the wiring.

What is an Arc fault breaker?

An arc fault breaker will trip once an arching situation is detected by the device. This smart device can determine when a natural arch is occurring and when an unsafe arc is occurring. To learn more about arc-fault breaker call Lighthouse Electric today!