HAAG Certified Reviewer

Which of the following breakers will automatically stop the flow of current when it detects an electric arc in the circuit?

1. GFCI

2. AFCI

3. MCB

4. RCCB

The correct answer is: AFCI

The breaker that automatically stops the flow of current when it detects an electric arc in the circuit is known as an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI). AFCIs are specifically designed to recognize the unique electrical patterns that indicate an arc fault, which can occur when there is a break in a circuit or when wires are damaged. By detecting these arc faults, AFCIs help prevent electrical fires, as arcing can produce sufficient heat to ignite nearby combustible materials. This feature is crucial for enhancing safety in residential wiring by addressing a significant cause of electrical fires. Other types of breakers serve different purposes: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) focus on preventing ground faults by monitoring current discrepancies between the hot and neutral wires. Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) protect against overloads and short circuits, and Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) detect earth faults but do not specifically address arc faults. Thus, the unique functionality of AFCIs in detecting and responding to electric arcs makes them the correct answer.