Best Arc Fault Circuit Breakers of 2025
* 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
SIEMENS Circuit Breaker Arc Fault 15 Amp 120V Cd
SIEMENS Arc Fault Breaker is a brand-new circuit breaker designed to protect your electrical circuits from dangerous arc faults. With a capacity of 15 amps at 120 volts, this breaker ensures the safety of your electrical system. It comes in a box with all accessories included for easy installation. The arc fault technology in this breaker helps prevent electrical fires by detecting abnormal arcing conditions. Investing in the SIEMENS Arc Fault Breaker will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from potential electrical hazards.
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 by Schneider Electric Homeline Plug-On Neutral 20 Amp Single-Pole CAFCI Circuit Breaker
The Square D by Schneider Electric Homeline Plug-On Neutral 20 Amp Single-Pole CAFCI Circuit Breaker is a 120V bulk breaker that offers Plug On Neutral Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters CAFI. This Homeline 20 Amp single-pole plug-on-neutral combination AFCI circuit breaker is perfect for preventing electrical fires caused by arc faults.
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.
Eaton BRP120AF 20A Single Pole Circuit Breaker
The Eaton BRP120AF is a 20A single pole circuit breaker that can handle 120/240V and 10 kAIC. It is a type BR Combo AFCI breaker that comes with all necessary components. This breaker is designed to only work with Plug On Neutral Panels. It is a great choice for those looking for an arc fault circuit breaker.
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 Circuit Breaker with AFCI and Plug-On Neutral, 15-Amp
The Square D Homeline Circuit Breaker is a 15-Amp, single-pole plug-on-neutral combination AFCI circuit breaker designed to help save customer's time and money. The innovative neutral connection design leads to fewer connections and faster installation, freeing up gutter space by eliminating the need for pigtails. The circuit breaker is compatible with Homeline series 4 and newer load centers and is rated for 120 VAC.
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.
Square D - HOM115CAFIC Homeline AFCI Circuit Breaker
The Square D - HOM115CAFIC Homeline AFCI Circuit Breaker is a 15 Amp single-pole combination breaker designed to protect against arc faults, which are a common cause of electrical fires. Its plug-on design makes it easy to install and it is compatible with Homeline load centers and CSED devices. This breaker operates at 120/240 Vac.
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.
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 16,279 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 $40.05.
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, Eaton. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 569 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.
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.