AFCI protection is required for all outlets in which area?

AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is specifically designed to safeguard against electrical fires caused by arc faults, which can occur in living areas where devices may be plugged in and left unattended. In residential applications, the National Electrical Code (NEC) mandates that AFCI protection be provided for all outlets in areas such as living rooms, bedrooms, and other dwelling units, as these spaces typically contain a variety of electrical devices and cords. Protecting these areas with AFCI helps reduce the risk of potential fire hazards from damaged wires or connections that may not be immediately visible.

While AFCI requirements do extend to bedrooms and other common living spaces, they do not necessarily apply to storage rooms, bathrooms, or garages. These areas are subject to different safety codes, and depending on specific installations or local amendments, AFCI protection may not be mandated for them. Living rooms, being multifunctional spaces where many different types of electrical equipment are often used, necessitate this protection to enhance safety against the risk of electrical fires.