What is a combination AFCI?

A combination AFCI is a device that detects both, series and parallel arc faults.
A series arc fault occurs when the conductor in series with the load breaks and arcing occurs between the ends of the conductor or when a conductor termination becomes loose.
A parallel arc fault occurs as a ground fault where an energized phase conductor contacts an opposing phase conductor or a short circuit occurs between a phase conductor and a grounded surface.

Insteon - How much does it cost?

Well, how much does Insteon cost?  It depends, of course.... But lets say you have a switch at a location that is inconvenient to reach and you would like to have it expanded to another location. This arrangement is called a 3-way switch. The materials for switching out the regular switch to an Insteon switch is roughly $60. Then you need a switch for the second location and depending what kind of switch is needed  (120Volt or battery operated), the cost is roughly the same, $60.-.  If you can do it yourself (be sure you know what you are doing and use all precautions!) , that's it! Otherwise hire a good electrician and have the job done!

What is INSTEON?

INSTEON is a wireless home control networking technology that is more reliable and flexible than many other home management systems. INSTEON technology relies on its dual-mesh network to send signals both through the air (RF of radio frequency) and over the existing electrical wires (power line) in the home.

With every INSTEON device being a repeater, the signal gets stronger with every INSTEON device you add to the network. Additionally,each INSTEON message contains error detection, so it is very unlikely that a device turns on of off accidentally.

If you have a previous installed X10 home control network, most INSTEON products are backward compatible with X10 devices.

Common applications for INSTEON are: Scene and remote control lighting; Security and alarm; sensors )water, humidity, temperature); Access control; HVAC; Audio-Video; Appliance management; Energy savings.

What is the difference between a conventional breaker and an AFCI breaker?

Conventional circuit breakers respond only to overloads and short circuit conditions; so they do not protect against arcing conditions that produce erratic current flow. AFCI breakers perform the task of conventional circuit breakers AND monitor and protect against ark faults. In addition the COMBINATION TYPE AFCI protects also against GROUND FAULTS. The National Electric Code requires the installation of the combination type Ark Fault Circuit Interrupters.

Speaking of arcing conditions: What causes arcing?
Arcing often occures in damaged and deterioated wiring and cords.
Some causes of damaged and deteriorated wiring include puncturing of wire insulation caused by picture hanging or cable staples, poorly installed outlets and switches, cords caught in doors or under furniture, furniture pushed against plugs in an outlet and cords exposed to heat vents and sunlight.

Why do wee need to prevent unwanted arcing?
Arc faults are one of the major causes of fires.
When unwanted arcing occurs, it generates high temperatures that can ignite nearby combustibles such as wood, paper and carpets.

What is an AFCI device?

AFCI stands for Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter.
What does an AFCI device do? An AFCI device (a circuit breaker or a receptacle) is designed to protect against fires caused by arc faults in electrical wiring.

How does an AFCI breaker work? An AFCI breaker, besides of having the function of a common circuit breaker, continuosly monitors the current flow and distinguishes between normal and unwanted arcing conditions. Once an unwanted arcing condition is detected, the AFCI trips and de-energizes the circuit.

Intro

Hi!
My name is Thomas Tripolt, my company is All Electric, a Electrical Contracting Business located in Marin County, CA.
I provide you with a variety of information and education materials on electrical products, electrical installations, energy efficiency and safety information.