Best Arc Fault Circuit Breakers of 2026
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Arc Fault Circuit Breakers are an essential safety feature in modern homes and buildings. These devices are designed to detect and prevent electrical fires caused by arcing faults, which occur when electrical current jumps from one wire to another. Arc Fault Circuit Breakers work by monitoring the electrical current passing through a circuit and shutting off power if an arcing fault is detected. This prevents the build-up of heat and potential ignition of nearby combustible materials. By installing Arc Fault Circuit Breakers, homeowners and building managers can ensure the safety of their properties and protect against the devastating effects of electrical fires.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
#TOP 1
9.8
#TOP 2
9.7
#TOP 3
9.5
Top 10 Arc Fault Circuit Breakers
20 Amp AFCI Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker
This AFCI Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker is easy to install and doesn't require pigtail. It comes with LED indicators for easy troubleshooting and Insta-wire connectors. It's HACR and SWD rated, UL Listed and has 10,000 AIC. It is designed to prevent electrical fires caused by arc faults.
Siemens Q120DF 20-Amp Dual Function Circuit Breaker
The Siemens Q120DF 20-Amp Dual Function Circuit Breaker is a cost-effective solution to meet code requirements, eliminating the need for separate AFCI breaker and GFI receptacle installation. It features an LED trip indicator that helps you easily identify the cause of any trip. This breaker is compatible with Siemens load centers that accept UL type QFGA2 breakers, and it is HACR, SWD, and 120 Volt AC rated. To run the self-test/trip functions, the breaker requires power and will not test/trip when not installed.
Siemens AFCI Circuit Breaker
The Siemens QA115AFCN 15 Amp 1-Pole Combination Type AFCI Plug-On Neutral Circuit Breaker is easy to install and does not require a pigtail. It has a high interrupt rating of 10,000 AIC and is HACR and SWD rated. Additionally, it is UL Listed, ensuring its safety and reliability.
Square D QO120PCAFI 20-Amp AFCI Circuit Breaker
The Square D QO120PCAFI is a 20 Amp single-pole plug-on neutral combination AFCI circuit breaker, designed with an innovative neutral connection that requires fewer connections for faster installation and frees up gutter space. This circuit breaker is compatible with QO plug-on neutral load centers only, rated for 120 VAC and 10,000 AIR, and ANSI certified and UL listed. This breaker is ideal for protecting against arc faults in electrical circuits.
Siemens QA120AFC 20-Amp AFCI Breaker
The Siemens AFCI Breaker is a single pole, 20 Amp circuit breaker with a combination type AFCI. It features LED trip indicators for clear identification of last trip condition, 1/4 in. more wire bend space than previous design, both lugs at the same angle for easier wiring, and a 25 lb./in. torque rating. The LED trip indicators help you identify the cause of the last trip, so you can quickly and easily resolve the issue. The increased wire bend space makes installation easier and less frustrating. The lugs at the same angle make wiring more convenient and less time-consuming. The high torque rating ensures a secure connection for optimal performance.
Square D Homeline 20 Amp Single-Pole CAFCI Circuit Breaker
The Square D Homeline 20 Amp Single-Pole CAFCI Circuit Breaker is an arc fault circuit breaker designed to protect against electrical fires and is compatible with Homeline load centers and CSED devices. Its plug-on design makes installation easy and it is rated for 120/240 Vac.
Connecticut Electric UBIZ20 Zinsco Q20 Replacement Breaker
The Connecticut Electric Q20 Breaker is a reliable replacement for Zinsco circuit breakers, designed specifically to fit Zinsco panels. This breaker is newly manufactured, ensuring you get a fresh and dependable component for your electrical needs. It carries the Intertek ETL Listing, meeting UL Standard 489, which means it adheres to strict safety and performance guidelines for molded case circuit breakers in both the US and Canada. With a 10,000 AIC rating, this breaker can handle significant fault currents, providing you with enhanced protection for your electrical system. The 20-amp, single-pole design at 120 VAC fits standard setups, making it a convenient and effective choice.
Square D Homeline Circuit Breaker, 20-Amp, 120V, 1-Pole CAFCI
The Square D Homeline Circuit Breaker is a 20A, single pole circuit breaker designed for Homeline series 4 and newer load centers. It has a plug on neutral combination ARC Fault Circuit Interrupters CAFI and is rated for 120VAC. The innovative neutral connection design leads to fewer connections and faster installation. The circuit breaker is equipped with time-saver diagnostics to help save the customer's time and money.
Square D Homeline 20-Amp Single-Pole Dual Function Circuit Breaker
This circuit breaker features a plug-on design that makes it easy to install and is compatible with all Home line load centers. It is rated for 120 VAC and 10,000 AIR, and is both ANSI certified and UL listed. Its arc fault protection feature reduces the risk of electrical fires. This circuit breaker comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Schneider Electric Square D HOM115PCAFIC 15A CAFCI Breaker
The Schneider Electric CAFCI Breaker offers advanced protection by constantly checking your electrical circuit for dangerous arcing, helping to prevent fires. It also provides clear fault information, making it easier for you to identify and fix issues quickly. The plug-on neutral design simplifies installation by reducing the number of connections needed, saving you time and effort during setup. Additionally, its compact size combines modern arc fault detection with strong overload and short circuit protection, giving you reliable safety without taking up much space in your panel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What circuits require arc fault breakers?
According to the NEC® requirement, arc fault circuit breakers (AFCIs) should be installed in various areas of new home construction, including bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, sunrooms, and other gathering places. They are also required in kitchen and laundry areas.
2. How do you tell if a circuit breaker is an arc fault breaker?
To identify if you have arc fault circuit breakers installed, inspect your electrical panel. Look for breakers with 'test' buttons and read the attached sticker to determine if it is an AFCI or GFCI breaker. AFCI breakers are designed to detect hazardous arcing conditions and shut down the electricity to prevent fire hazards.
3. Where should you not use arc fault breakers?
AFCI protection is not required for outlets located outside, in garages, or bathroom areas. However, all 15A or 20A, 120V branch circuits supplying outlets in dormitory unit bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, closets, bathrooms, or similar areas should have AFCI protection.
4. What circuits do not have to be arc fault protected?
According to the Amendments to the Department of Safety and Professional Services, AFCI protection is not required on branch circuits serving kitchens or branch circuit extensions or modifications. GFCI protection is not necessary if a receptacle is within 6 feet of a kitchen sink, bathtub, or shower stall.
5. Can I replace an arc-fault breaker with a regular breaker?
Yes, you can replace an arc-fault breaker with a regular breaker as long as you only do so for troubleshooting purposes. It is important to ensure that the replacement breaker is appropriate for the electrical panel and complies with safety regulations.
6. Does a refrigerator need AFCI?
If a refrigerator is located in any living space other than a basement, it will require AFCI protection. However, refrigerators in basements are exempted. GFCIs, on the other hand, monitor the current flow and are separate from AFCIs.
7. Which is better GFCI or AFCI?
Both GFCIs and AFCIs serve different purposes in terms of electrical safety. GFCIs are designed to prevent electric shocks, while AFCIs detect electricity leakage and prevent fires caused by arcing. To ensure maximum safety, it is recommended to have both GFCIs and AFCIs installed by a qualified electrician.
During our arc fault circuit breaker research, we found 24 arc fault circuit breaker products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 18,802 customer reviews through our big data system to write the arc fault circuit breakers list. We found that most customers choose arc fault circuit breakers with an average price of $40.30.
The arc fault circuit breakers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of arc fault circuit breakers, including SIEMENS, Schneider Electric, Connecticut Electric. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 315 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.