Code Question


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Old 01-06-10, 04:22 PM
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Code Question

When installing an eight circuit transfer switch on an older home that does not have AFCI breakers, is it required to have AFCI breakers in the transfer switch? Will it be required to upgrade to AFCI breakers in the main panel?
 
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Old 01-06-10, 04:50 PM
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Most likely no. The requirement is for when new circuits are run or the circuit is modified. You are not changing the circuit. To be sure a quick call to your building inspection department should give you a definite answer.
 
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Old 01-06-10, 04:54 PM
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OK. Thanks. Calling the inspector is probably worth doing.
 
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Old 01-07-10, 05:46 AM
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That is an interesting question!
(As to circuits which ARE currently AFCI/GFCI breaker protected...)

I don't think I have seen transfer switches with AFCI or GFCI breakers in them, just regular breakers.

And I don't know if the breakers in a transfer switch could be replaced (mechanically) like those in a regular panel?

And if they could, which brand breaker?

Then in the case of an AFCI, would the action of switching power cause problems?

And what about the case of a "neutral switching" transfer switch?
 
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Old 01-07-10, 06:01 AM
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Bill,

I do not believe something like the Gentran that uses a non-standard breaker would be able to be used if AFCI protection was required. I would think that you would need to use a transfer switch made by one of the panel brands that has AFCI breakers like Square D or Cutler-Hammer.
 
 

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