Code Q&A

Q. What does the NEC require when replacing receptacles in locations that now require arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection?

A. Effective Jan. 1, 2014, where a receptacle outlet is supplied by a branch circuit that requires arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection [210.12(A)], a replacement receptacle at this outlet must be one of the following [406.4(D)(4)]:

1. A listed (receptacle) outlet branch circuit type arc-fault circuit-interrupter receptacle.
2. A receptacle protected by a listed (receptacle) outlet branch circuit type arc-fault circuit-interrupter type receptacle.
3. A receptacle protected by a listed combination type arc-fault circuit interrupter type circuit breaker.