Arc-fault protection
On Jan. 1, 2015, the Canadian Electrical Code requirements for arc-fault protection changed. Special wiring methods are required for most residential outlet branch circuits.
All branch circuits in a dwelling supplying 125V outlets rated 20A or less are required to be protected by a combination-type arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCII).
Only the following 15A or 20A outlets are
excluded:
- Kitchen counter, island and peninsula outlets
- Kitchen refrigerator outlet
- A cord connected sump pump on a separate breaker (the sump pump must only be plugged into a single receptacle)
- Ground fault protected outlets within 1m of a bathroom or washroom sink
Where combination AFCI breakers are not used, blank face protectors and outlets are permitted with some restrictions.
Each application has a preferred installation method based on level of protection and practicality.
The branch circuit wiring from the Panelboard to the blank face device or first outlet must be armored cable (AC90 BX) or approved electrical tubing. This is to add additional protection to the branch circuit wiring where breakers are not used.