Test AFCI breakers
Short answer
Once a year, press the TEST button on each AFCI breaker at your panel; it should trip immediately, then flip it back to ON and replace any that don't trip.
Why It Matters
AFCI breakers detect arc faults, a leading cause of electrical fires. Like GFCIs, they can fail silently.
How to Do It
- Locate your electrical panel and open the door.
- Identify each AFCI breaker; they have a TEST button on the face, unlike standard breakers.
- Press the TEST button on the first AFCI breaker. It should trip immediately, moving the handle to the tripped position.
- Flip the breaker handle fully to OFF, then back to ON to reset it.
- Repeat for each remaining AFCI breaker in the panel.
- Note any breaker that does not trip when tested. Those breakers have failed and need to be replaced.
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