I have a circuit which, at this time, has just one duplex outlet. When I close the circuit breaker, it remains closed, when I plug a heater or a work light into the outlet the breaker trips. Are there any precautions to take on circuits fed by an AFCI circuit breaker? For example duplex outlets have two methods of making a connection - a push-in option and a screw down option. Should the push-in option be avoided? The heater and work light work fine on another circuit fed by a conventional 15 amp breaker.

It shouldn't trip with the work light, unless it is a type that uses an arc to strike... such as a high intensity lamp. The heater switch by design probably creates an arc when it goes on or off. And the screw down option is always preferred.

The push hook ups use spring tension to hold wires. Over time the tension weakens from use because of heat from electric. This will cause outlet to stop working or will work intermittently.

Try a regular light in outlet and see if it trips.

Lets us know the outcome.

Good luck

Chuck

I think I have the answer. The AFCI breaker has two terminals - one for the hot supply wire and one for the return wire. The return wire must be connected to the neutral terminal on the breaker - not to the neutral bus. The white pigtail on the breaker is connected to the neutral bus. I had everything as it should be except I had the return wire going to the neutral bus.

Glad u have solved problem. And welcome aboard.

Chuck