You may be asking yourself, "What is an arc-fult circuit interrupter anyway?" The 2009 National Electrical Code defines an arc-fault circuit interrupter as, “ A device intended to provide protection from the effects of arc faults by recognizing characteristics unique to arcing and by functioning to de-energize the circuit when an arc fault has occurred.” In dwelling units, all 120-single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets installed in dwelling unit family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas shall be protected by a listed arc-fault circuit interrupter, combination-type, installed to provide protection of the branch circuit.
The standard for arc-fault circuit interrupters is listed in UL 1699-1999. This explains the different acceptable types of these type devices. There are also fire alarm system power supply requirements and National Fire Alarm Code requirements that must be met. These are listed in the NEC under Article 210.12(B) FPN No.1, 2, and 3.
There are two exceptions listed under this same section dealing with requirements of 250.118 and 760.41(B) and 760.121(B) when installing RMC, IMC, EMT, steel armored cable, Type AC.
Article 210.18 deals with guest rooms and guest suites. Guest rooms and guest suites that are provided with permanent provisions for cooking shall have branch circuits installed to meet the rules for dwelling units.
