What type of protection is required for 15- and 20-amp circuits in living areas of a home?

AFCI, or Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter, protection is required for 15- and 20-amp circuits in living areas of a home. This requirement is in place to help prevent electrical fires that can occur due to arcing faults in the wiring, which can be caused by damaged wires, loose connections, or failing devices. AFCIs are designed to detect these potentially dangerous arcing conditions and interrupt the circuit, significantly reducing the risk of fires.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) mandates the use of AFCI protection in specific areas of the home, particularly those deemed living spaces, such as bedrooms, family rooms, and other general-use areas. This safety feature aims to enhance the overall electrical safety in residential properties and is an important consideration for home inspectors when evaluating the electrical systems in a house.