AFCI Extensions

	Mike Miller

Submitted by Mike Miller, Curriculum & Training Manager

Some confusion may exist around the installation of Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) and the relocation of receptacles. In a recent code class I provided, the discussion focused on a duplex receptacle in an existing home. 

The receptacle we are discussing is inconveniently situated; it is positioned right in the middle of the lower portion of a headboard of a bed that is snugly pushed against the bedroom wall.

This raises the question: If an electrician installed a cable from this receptacle through the basement to a spot on the same wall but just beyond the bed, not exceeding four feet in total, would the branch circuit extension require arc fault protection? The electrician would then install the original receptacle with an "old work" box beyond the contour of the bed and cover the original box containing the spliced extension with a blank wall plate.

The 2023 NEC Section 210.12(E) states "If branch-circuit wiring for any of the areas specified in 210.12(B), (C), or (D) is modified, replaced, or extended, the branch circuit shall be protected by one of the following:

(1) By any of the means described in 210.12(A)(1) through (A)(6)
(2) A listed outlet branch-circuit-type AFCI located at the first receptacle outlet of the existing branch circuit

The concept that was debated is the need for providing AFCI protection for this relocated receptacle based on this code exception: AFCI protection shall not be required where the extension of the existing branch-circuit conductors is not more than six feet and does not include any additional outlets or devices, other than splicing devices. This measurement shall not include the conductors inside an enclosure, cabinet, or junction box.

• Those supporting AFCI protection for the extension of this branch circuit argue that even though the receptacle was simply relocated, the procedure effectively created an additional outlet. (An outlet is defined as "A point on the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment.")
  
  
• On the other hand, those arguing against AFCI protection for this branch circuit extension assert that the original receptacle behind the bed, which will be blanked off, and is incapable of delivering current to utilization equipment. Therefore, they contend that no new outlets were added (one was blanked, and its function was extended by no more than six feet).

In visiting with students, I have heard that most inspectors would prefer to see AFCI protection installed for safety, typically in the form of an outlet-style AFCI device. I encourage you to check with your inspector to find out their opinion on such matters.