AFCI stands for arc fault circuit interrupter. This type of outlet detects when an electrical arc occurs in the wiring, i.e. when electricity takes a "short cut" and jumps from one wire to another. The standard circuit breakers in your home only react to overloads and short circuits. What an AFCI does is selectively target unwanted arcing that might escape the safety precautions of circuit breakers. As soon as the AFCI detects arcing, it opens its contacts and cuts off power to the outlet. This is tremendously helpful in preventing electrical fires from faulty outlets.

GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter. These outlets handle a much different type of job than either AFCI outlets or circuit breakers. Where circuit breakers are designed to protect the electrical systems from damage due to overloads, shorts, and arcing, the GFCI outlet is designed to protect people from receiving high voltage shocks. A GFCI outlet monitors the current between the "hot" and "neutral" slots on an outlet. During normal operation, there should be no imbalance between the two sides of the outlet. If the outlet detects that there is less voltage entering the neutral slot, it means electricity is flowing into the ground-most likely through a person. The outlet immediately trips a breaker to cut off the electrical voltage and prevent further harm.

You don't need to have every outlet in your home upgraded to either GFCI or AFCI outlets. Electricians will know the best locations for them, as well as where the electrical code requires them. For example, GFCI outlets should be installed in bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen-rooms that present the highest chance of high voltage shocks.

Once you have your outlets installed, you can always depend on our electricians to help you if you need them repaired or replaced. We answer the phones 24 hours a day, so you can always rely on our electricians in an emergency. We offer a guarantee on all our installations: if the outlet requires repairs during the first year, we'll do the work free of charge. Look to Pezz Electrical Services LLC in Montgomery, Princeton, Somerville & Hillsborough Township, NJ for all your home electrical needs!