Today’s homes are full of electronics, chargers, and appliances competing for power. As a result, electrical fires have become more of a risk — not from dramatic sparks and smoke, but from tiny, hidden faults slowly overheating wiring behind the walls. That’s where arc-fault protection steps in.
An arc fault occurs when electricity strays from its intended path. Frayed insulation, crushed cords under furniture, damaged extension cables, or loose connections inside an outlet can all trigger arcs. These arcs produce intense heat and carbonization that may smolder for hours before anyone notices. Standard breakers only protect against overloads and short circuits — they cannot detect these dangerous arcs.
AFCI breakers (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters) are designed to sense the signature of an arc in milliseconds and cut power before heat can build. The technology is smart, analyzing subtle current patterns to distinguish a harmless spark — like when you flip a switch — from a hazardous arc.
The National Electrical Code now requires AFCI protection in most living areas, including bedrooms, hallways, family rooms, and more. If your Austin home is older, there’s a good chance your panel still uses traditional breakers that leave you vulnerable to hidden fire risks.
Upgrading to arc-fault protection delivers peace of mind, especially for families with children, aging electrical systems, or high-demand devices plugged in throughout the home. It’s a safety upgrade you can’t see — but it could make all the difference when no one is looking.
If you’re unsure whether your panel offers arc-fault protection, our licensed team can assess your system and recommend upgrades that keep your home — and family — safe.