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libenitz · May 18, 2009, 09:21 AM

Downstairs was rewired and updated but the 2nd floor apt lighting is still the old post and tube system. The outlets are updated with romex running to them. But there are about 8 overhead lights in all the rooms that run on 1 circuit.

Was wondering if I should replace the breaker with AFCI? Would this make it any safer? I've been told the old wiring system is safe the only problem is if/when an arch occurs?

Oh, 1 thing, there is a ceiling fan too so I've heard they can give trouble to AFCI??

Thanks

ballengerb1 · May 18, 2009, 11:02 AM

So are you saying your have a fairly new panel with breakers and part of t5he home is still post and tube, right?

libenitz · May 18, 2009, 11:06 AM

Yes ballenger, just one circuit that goes to the upstairs overhead light. I think there might be 1 or 2 outlets on the circuit too. My electro says it's fins, as does my uncle who is an electro. Ripping up the ceilings to replace it all is a huge and expensive job.
But I'd like to at least get it as safe as possible.

ballengerb1 · May 18, 2009, 11:08 AM

Arc faults are required in new construction but are more commonly added in remodels to bedroom outlets. Not sure about the fans being an issue with arc faults, I just have not run into that.

libenitz · May 18, 2009, 11:13 AM

There is only one bedroom up there and it is on a new circuit with romex. The overhead light is on the old system though. I heard that arc fault may just add the protection against electric fire on the old wiring.

Guess I'm just wondering if AFCI will add any worthwhile protection against house fire from the old wiring

tkrussell · May 18, 2009, 02:22 PM

Arc Fault devices came about first to help protect from frayed cords on lamps, etc in bedrooms, that get tucked behind and pinched by furniture.

While less likely to cause problems, they do work well to protect the entire circuit from loose connections and broken wire.

No one will tell you this is not a good idea.

Legally AFCI protection is not required, unless you do a major "remodel". I emphasis due to interpretation of a remodel.

I have seen fifty year old wiring that looked like new, and new wiring that started fires.

USFA Electrical Fire Safety

If this is worth while is really up to the condition of your wiring, and how comfortable you are with it.

Lives are always worthwhile. No one can speculate on whether you should or not.

While arc fault is works well, even better would be to remove as much, if not all, of any K&T wiring.