Whenever there’s talk about electrical safety, you may hear about GFCI and AFCI outlets. In fact, these safety devices, also known as receptacles, are likely already installed in your home. The main difference between them is that GFCI devices protect people from electric shock, and AFCI devices protect your home from potential electrical fires.

Want to know more about GFCI and AFCI outlets? Read on to learn how they work, why you need them, and which outlets are the right fit for your home!

What Is a GFCI Outlet?

GFCI is short for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. As the name implies, a GFCI outlet monitors the electrical current flowing through the GFCI and almost instantly prevents ground-fault short circuits. This type of short circuit occurs when a hot wire comes in contact with something that’s not supposed to be energized, like the outside of a toaster.

According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), GFCI outlets are required to be used in certain rooms and circuits in new construction, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Check with your local jurisdiction to see where you need to have GFCI outlets.

What Is an AFCI Outlet?

AFCI stands for Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter. This device protects your home from fires by tracking the circuit for evidence of potentially dangerous electrical arcs. An AFCI can tell the difference between brief arcs inherent in many electrical applications (such as a light switch) and abnormal arcs that are usually caused by a worn wire.

Like GFCIs, AFCI outlets are required in most rooms in newly-constructed homes, including bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, and so on. The only places you don’t need an AFCI are garages and bathrooms, but you should still confirm this with your local code authority.

Do You Need GFCI and AFCI Outlets?

The bottom line: both GFCI and AFCI outlets have their use in homes. In new construction, their usage will be dictated by code requirements. The NEC is updated every three years, potentially adding locations that require protection. Cities and states may adopt the code at different intervals, so your specific requirements will depend on where you live.

If you live in an older home, you’re not currently required to retrofit your fault protection unless you’re updating your wiring. That said, adding GFCI and AFCI protection is as simple as swapping out one outlet per circuit, so there’s little reason not to do it.. Follow the NEC to learn which outlet should go where and how to ensure they’re readily accessible.