Is a faulty 15 amp GFCI breaker causing my kids’ room to trip, and would upgrading to a 20 amp breaker be a solution to prevent this issue?
Asked by Ethan Barnaby 
2 months ago
Last Updated: October 22, 2024
Hey there, I could use your input on something. Lately, the GFCI 15 amp breaker in my kids’ room has been tripping. All the electrical appliances in the room are being used as usual. I’ve inspected all the plugs and wires, and everything seems fine. Do you think the breaker itself might be faulty? What should I look out for to confirm if that’s the case? Is it safe to switch it out for a 20 amp breaker to prevent it from tripping? Thanks in advance for your help!
You should consider removing the arc fault breaker…
What do you think I should replace it with?
Billy Ha just needs to grab a breaker that’s right across from where he is.
Thank you so much, ! 😊
Are the wires hooked onto the screws or pushed into the back? They can sometimes loosen if pushed into the back over time, so it’s best to properly hook them around the screws.
Billy Ha suggests that it might be best to either leave the arc fault in place or replace it with a different one. Try switching the wires from one breaker to another in the panel to see if it trips on the new one.
Really hit the nail on the head with that one, didn’t he? 💯
Ignore this fool, .
I kind of agree with about the bedroom.
Billy sang as he handed over the fire extinguisher.
Bucci just double-checked and all the wires are secure in the front and back. He’s thinking about installing a regular 15 amp breaker. Since the AFCI breaker has a neutral wire, does he need to buy a 15 amp breaker with a neutral wire or not?
Hey Billy, I wouldn’t follow that advice.
Unplug everything and check if the circuit still trips.
Chances are something you have plugged in is causing the issue.
Try plugging things in one by one.
If you still have problems, you’ll need to call an electrician.
‘t switch the breaker to a 20 amp one.
Arc faults are terrible… I don’t have any in my house… they just seem like a money grab for the big 4 manufacturers.
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Sure thing!
I’m here to tell you the same thing.
Thankfully, is not needed here.
Billy Ha says that arc fault breakers are essential for detecting potential fire hazards caused by arcs, like broken wires or faulty devices. They are designed to protect both human life and property, so it’s important not to substitute them with regular breakers. Simply replacing the breaker won’t address the underlying issue, and you’d be relying on luck that it doesn’t escalate into a dangerous situation.
That’s not very helpful advice.
You’re on the right track, .
Before upgrading breakers, make sure to check the wire size that is supplying the FI.
Avoid using a larger breaker. Just replace it.
Said thank you
Consider hiring a professional for assistance.
What’s the deal with having a FI breaker in the bedroom?
Mentioned the kid has a hot tub in there
Noticed there’s no FCI in the room. I suppose this isn’t a FCI breaker. I saw a test button on the breaker and thought it was a FCI breaker.
If it’s an arc fault, not a FCI, someone might be plugging in something that caused a fault. Pay attention to the actions when it trips. It’s unlikely to be defective, but still a possibility. You can try swapping AFCI breakers with another bedroom to test, although these breakers are pricey.
Do you think I could use a regular 15 amps breaker instead of the $70 one from HD for ?
Just try swapping out the existing AFCI with another one to see if the problem is with the room or a faulty breaker. If the kids’ room stays on and the other room trips, then it could be a defective breaker. If the kids’ room keeps tripping, then there may be an issue with the wiring or devices in the rooms, or with what’s plugged in. If you switch to a standard breaker and there’s still a problem, there could be an underlying issue that you’re not aware of. And if you purchase a new AFCI and the problem persists, remember that you may not be able to return it.
Reat response, !
In my experience, arc faults can be finicky when used on circuits with computer equipment. If you identify the problematic component, replace it with a non-AFCI if code compliance is not a concern.
Hey Todd, you’re correct. My son has a gaming computer and my daughter has a fish tank with a cooler. Do you think it would be okay to switch to a standard 15 amp breaker instead of an AFCI breaker? AFCI breakers can be pricey.
The current US code mandates AFCI in living spaces. I’m not in a position to recommend disregarding the code and compromising safety or fire protection standards. I would start by examining common culprits – such as fish tank pumps, heater/cooler, computers and peripherals – to identify the problematic device. Replace or upgrade the component once identified. Certainly, when water is involved, a FCI should be the minimum for safety.
Nope it’s not safe to remove the AFCI. it’s tripping for a reason. Essentially, the breaker is functioning as intended. You could swap it out with a similar type of breaker and check if the issue resolves but from what I’ve seen, that doesn’t always solve it. We must pinpoint the problem or enlist the help of an electrician to do so, especially since it’s your child’s room. Definitely not a risk I would take lightly. 
It varies depending on location it’s not up to code here
I concur. It aligns with the NEC, but not all local jurisdictions have adopted the most recent edition.
The rule for arc fault breakers in residential bedrooms dates back to 2005.
Hower Absolutely right. Newer versions have broadened the criteria. If mentions it’s not up to code in his area, I trust his local expertise.
They’re still using the 2003 NEC code here 😂
I get it, even though it’s surprising. That’s why I know it’s up to the AHJ. The NEC is the NEC and not necessarily applicable (whether sensible or not) in all areas.
Switch out the breaker for a 15 amp one, those arc fault breakers can be a bit tricky, but stick with the same type. Also, make sure to unplug any devices the kids aren’t using – that can make a difference as well.
Thank you for sharing your insights!
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I’ve had a doorbell camera installed for a few years now with no issues, but suddenly it’s acting up this week. I’m thinking of replacing it with a regular 15 amp breaker to see if that helps. Thanks! 🙏
Billy, I suggest checking the doorbell transformer to see if it’s hot. I had a recent service call where the doorbell camera was a few years old and ended up frying the transformer and wall chime, which caused the arc fault breaker to keep tripping.
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Playstation 5
AFCI tends to trip when devices with internal brushes are used, such as ceiling fans, vacuum cleaners, and hair dryers.
It’s possible that the circuit breaker is just doing its job. You might have a loose connection somewhere, try swapping the breaker with another one before calling an electrician and spending a lot of money.
I know this is a bit off-topic, but I’m curious about how to post a question in this group. Can anyone help me out?
Do not upgrade to a 20 amp breaker unless you are certain that the circuit has a 12 AW wire. It’s likely a faulty breaker. To troubleshoot, swap it with a working 15 amp Arc fault breaker to determine if the issue is with the circuit or the breaker. If not, consider hiring an electrician.
Thanks a lot!🙏
For sure!!
Giving out free advice will impact the field.
Not at all haha
My bad.. I’m just naturally helpful.. Can’t help it..
For any serious problems, it’s best to consult a professional.
Just to clarify, it’s not a FI breaker but an arc fault breaker. It’s possible that the ground wire is coming into contact with a neutral wire somewhere.
I really dislike the arc fault breakers. I’ve seen too many of them fail in a short period of time. It feels like they’re just a way to drive up the cost of a home. They cost 10 times more than regular breakers and don’t last as long. It’s possible that the manufacturers of the breakers influenced the NEC to make them mandatory.
Tomkinson I completely agree that they could be doing more harm than good, but I think it’s ridiculous to claim that the NEC was bribed. They are aiming to reduce liability and enhance safety, and despite some inconvenience, AFCI achieves that. They will improve over time.
I’ve heard that the square D ones don’t trip as often.
Sounds like there might be an arc fault. Have you added anything new to that room lately? Also, double-check that the wires are secure along the circuit. The arc fault might be working properly by tripping to avoid a fire.
This is not a gfi
Make sure you don’t have an attic exhaust fan on the same circuit; they often start having problems in warmer months. Also, follow ‘ advice.
Always stick to the original amperage to avoid any complications with the wiring.
Make sure to also check if your attic exhaust fan is on the same circuit. It’s pretty typical for them to start acting up during the warmer seasons. And definitely take ‘s advice into consideration too!
It’s probably not the arc fault. Take a look at the devices in the room, like lights or loose receptacles. Believe it or not, a loose light bulb can actually cause an arc fault to trip. If you have any plug-in A/C or heating appliances, it’s possible that the wattage is too high for a 15 amp circuit.
I’ve personally witnessed cases where breakers go bad straight out of the box. They’re definitely not as reliable as standard breakers that have a longer lifespan.
Make sure to hire an electrician who is qualified and licensed.
The activation of the breaker is likely being caused by something that is being plugged in.
The newer version of the arc fault breaker is much better. I’ve had to replace the old ones frequently, but the new ones rarely give me trouble. Just stick with the 15-amp breaker and get a newer one, no need to go up to 20 amps.
Having a bigger breaker can lead to a fire hazard.
Any motor load has the potential to trip them
Make sure to have the total amperage and voltage in the bedroom checked. It’s a simple diagnosis and repair process. I have the necessary tools and will perform the check for free.🙏 Call me at 814 663 1595, Rob.⚡ Your family’s safety is top priority.
The fact that you requested a 20 amp increase tells me you should consider hiring a professional
When a breaker trips, it means that it has become weaker, likely due to being old and worn out.
Replace and keep an eye on it. If it keeps tripping, something is definitely not right.
Reemplace el interruptor porque ya se quemó por dentro
You might want to contact a licensed electrician to fix the problem. They should be able to figure it out easily and make sure your house stays safe. Your children are important.
Y cuando eso ocurre no se magnetiza y permanece abierto
There is a lot of great advice here. Those AFCIs can be so touchy. I hate them but they are necessary. The easiest solution is to unplug things in the bedroom until it stops tripping. It seems like anything can set them off. I had to replace some AFCI breakers with regular ones, as they were causing too many issues. You might want to consider using AFCI receptacles instead. Just make sure to always hire a licensed electrician for any work on the panel.
Is there a button on the gfci plug that you can press to reset it when it trips? Try resetting the plug and then check if it works. If not, you may need to replace the gfci plug.
You should really call an electrician!
Swap it out for a regular 15 amp. Arc faults will trip if you even sneeze near an outlet.
Alternatively, instead of causing a code violation, you could simply identify the issue and resolve it.
If it’s connected to a FI, then it needs one installed. Consider contacting an electrician
Those aren’t FCIs, they’re actually Arc Fault breakers. Ceiling fans tend to trigger them often.
You could try switching the wires to one of your other gfi breakers and see if it holds up then.
Just choose which one you don’t need and swap the breaker. You’ll end up saving quite a few dollars.
Make sure to check what devices they are plugging in!!! Only switch to 20amp if you used 12g wire…which seems unlikely
Feel free to remove them if it’s your own house. If you need a home inspection, you can always put them back. Those things are a nightmare for property managers and builders, they really should be banned.
Can be a real pain in the neck.
Check the surge protectors, especially if they are old.
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I don’t think anyone has inquired about it yet. Have you noticed if those arc fault breakers are starting to feel warm or hot to the touch?
Amprobe…
Your child might be accidentally tripping the breaker by plugging and unplugging electronics.