CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorEquipment and InstallationHard
An electrician needs to extend an existing 120-volt, 15-ampere bedroom branch circuit by 4 feet to relocate a single receptacle outlet, with no additional outlets added. The existing circuit is not currently AFCI protected. Per NEC 210.12(B) Exception, is AFCI protection required for this extension?
- AYes, but only combination-type AFCI breakers may be used.
- BNo, because AFCI protection only applies to new construction, not existing dwellings.
- CNo, because extensions of not more than 6 feet from an existing outlet, with no additional outlets, are exempt from the AFCI requirement.
- DYes, AFCI protection is always required for any modification to a dwelling bedroom circuit.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. No, because extensions of not more than 6 feet from an existing outlet, with no additional outlets, are exempt from the AFCI requirement.
The Exception to NEC 210.12(B) permits extending an existing branch circuit up to 6 feet without adding outlets without requiring AFCI protection, recognizing the impracticality of retrofitting AFCI protection for minor extensions. Since the extension here is 4 feet with no new outlets, it qualifies for the exception.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Combination-type AFCI is the general requirement when protection IS required, not applicable to this exempted extension.
- B. AFCI can apply to existing dwellings when circuits are modified, but this specific short extension is exempted.
- D. This overstates the requirement; the code provides a specific exception for short extensions.
AFCI Extension Exception (210.12(B))
An exception to AFCI requirements allows extending an existing unprotected branch circuit up to 6 feet without adding outlets, without requiring AFCI protection.
- Extension must be 6 feet or less
- No additional outlets may be added
- Recognizes impracticality of retrofitting AFCI on minor extensions
Memory trick: 'Six feet, no more outlets, no AFCI required.'