[Geo6418]

I am remodeling a living room and do the outlets need to be on an arc fault breaker ? Also I have to install an outlet on the outside porch which is on the other side of the living room wall. Will I have to run a separate circuit for this outlet only or can I use the living room circiut to feed this outlet if the living room outlets are on an arc fault breaber?

[loloy666]

It need to be in arc breaker.and if you can afford, you need a separate line with its own breaker for the porch and it should be outdoor oulet or a so called weather froof outlet.but if you cannot afford it,you can try to get supply from from living room,getting its safety precaution from living room arc breaker.

[ballengerb1]

I seriously doubt that your local codes would require an arc fault for your living room. Many codes do require arc for bedrooms and GFCI for wet areas. You can install an arc fault if you wish, nothing stopping you from that.

[tkrussell]

To clarify, Section 210.12 (B) of the 2008 National Electric Code, requires Arc Fault Protection for all 120 volt 15 & 20 amp outlets( meaning any receptacles and any lighting fixtures) in dwellings, and I quote, "family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, or similar rooms or areas".

So, living room outlets require to have AFCI protection.

Note that kitchens and bathrooms is missing, as those locations require only GFI protection for receptacles only, as does any outdoor receptacle, garage, and unfinished basement.

Local codes may not be using the 2008 edition of the NEC, or may waive specific sections, or areas.

For example, the 2008 NEC wording includes smoke detectors in bedrooms be covered by AFCI. Our local state code waives that, and does not want a smoke detector on AFCI, (makes a lot of sense).

For the 2008 code to be in effect,it only covers NEW installed work. If your remodel does not entail all new cable, the 2008 Code would not have jurisdiction.

You outdoor outlet, while it must be GFI protected, may or may not be AFCI protected, however you see fit.

You should consult with your local code official, one, to learn what code is in effect, and two, to be sure your remodel will involve AFCI protection.