What if my afci test button won't work?

[Mr_Tom]

I just remember like GFCI breakers, AFCI breakers are suppose to be be tested, tripped with the test button, every month. Now what if my afci test button won't work? Is the whole breaker defective? Is the other protections like overload and short circuit defective too? Just want to understand what to do, before I go testing them.

tom

[Mary]

Tom, when I was at home depot those AFCI's were pretty expensive. I don't like the idea that they can fail. Did your's fail? The afci test button won't work?

Mary

[mrSparkie]

"What if my afci test button won't work?"

OK if it doesn't don't panic. The test button on the AFCI is to simulate a signal of an arc, with in specs, that should trip the breaker. If the breaker doesn't trip, it means the circuit board inside the breaker doesn't recognize the signal, or arc pattern. The breaker's overload and short circuit protection should not be compromised. You should however check when the breaker was installed and find the warranty. If it's out of warranty then it can be a few bucks to replace it. $35 for an AFCI breaker verses only $4 for a regular. Now do not try and replace AFCI breakers with regular breakers. Because of the cost of an AFCI breaker, there must be a good reason it is installed (codes, aluminum wiring, etc.). So use AFCI breakers an remember to check them by using the test button per manufacturer's instructions. They work 24/7 and are electronic so their can be a failure.

Mr. Sparkie

[Mary]

Ok so if afci won't reset, then we have problems. Like you said, pumping out $35 bucks a breaker and then any labor or materials, make afci not reseting problem, an expensive problem.

thanks,

tom