AFCI vs GFCI: What’s the Difference (and Do You Need Both)?
Homeowners often see “GFCI” and “AFCI” and assume they’re basically the same thing. They’re not. They protect against different dangers — and depending on your home and the circuit, you may need both. This guide explains the difference in plain language so you can understand what’s happening and know when to call a licensed electrician.
GFCI = shock protection (especially around moisture).
AFCI = fire prevention (detects dangerous arcing).
Side-by-side comparison (fast clarity)
| Device | GFCI | AFCI |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Protects people from electric shock | Helps prevent electrical fires from arcing faults |
| What it detects | Current leaking where it shouldn’t (often toward ground/water/person) | Electrical arcing patterns caused by loose/damaged connections or cords |
| Common locations | Bathrooms, kitchens, garages, basements, outdoors, laundry areas | Living areas/bedrooms and other circuits where arcing fire risk is a concern |
| What tripping can mean | Moisture, bad appliance, damaged cord, wiring issue, worn GFCI | Damaged cord, loose connection, wiring issue, certain loads, real arcing |
What a GFCI is actually watching for
A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) compares the electricity flowing out and the electricity returning. If even a small amount of current “goes missing” — meaning it’s leaking somewhere else — the GFCI trips quickly to reduce shock risk. That’s why GFCIs matter most where moisture is likely.
If you’re deciding which GFCI outlet to use (or whether an older one should be replaced), see our electrician-written guide: Best GFCI Outlets for Home Safety. It breaks down the right types for bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor locations.
Related guide: GFCI Outlets Explained: Where You Need Them and Why They Matter.
What an AFCI is actually watching for
An AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) is looking for electrical “arcing” patterns. Arcing can happen when a connection is loose, a cord is damaged, or wiring has deteriorated. Arcing creates heat — and heat in the wrong place can become a fire. AFCI protection helps reduce that risk by shutting down the circuit when those patterns are detected.
- Burning smells, scorch marks, or melted plastic
- Buzzing/crackling from outlets, switches, or the panel
- Hot outlets or warm switches
- Repeated breaker trips or unexplained flickering
Do you need both?
In many newer homes and remodels, some circuits/areas can require both shock protection and arc-fault protection. There are multiple code-compliant ways to accomplish that, and the correct solution depends on your panel, circuit, and location.
Why these devices trip (common homeowner scenarios)
- GFCI trips: moisture, outdoor humidity/rain, aging appliances, damaged cords, shared downstream outlets
- AFCI trips: damaged cords, loose connections, wiring issues, certain motor/electronic loads
- Either one repeatedly: often points to a real underlying issue that needs diagnosis
Related guides: Why Your GFCI Keeps Tripping (And What It’s Trying to Tell You) and Why Your Breaker Keeps Tripping (And When It’s Dangerous).
What you can do safely (no wiring)
- Unplug devices and see if tripping stops (plug items back in one at a time)
- Check outdoor receptacles after rain/humidity (moisture is a common cause)
- Stop using damaged cords or loose-fitting plugs
- Don’t bypass safety devices or replace them with standard ones
FAQ
What’s the difference between a GFCI and an AFCI?
A GFCI helps protect people from shock by detecting current leaking where it shouldn’t (often around water). An AFCI helps reduce electrical fire risk by detecting dangerous arcing from damaged cords or loose connections.
Do I need both AFCI and GFCI protection?
Some circuits or locations can require both in modern homes and remodels. This is often provided by a dual-function breaker or another code-compliant method selected by a licensed electrician.
Why does an AFCI or GFCI trip even when everything seems fine?
Trips can come from real issues like moisture, aging appliances, damaged cords, loose connections, or wiring problems. If tripping repeats—especially with heat, buzzing, burning smells, or flickering—it should be evaluated.
Can I replace an AFCI or GFCI with a standard outlet or breaker?
No. These are life-safety devices. Replacing them with standard devices reduces protection and may violate code. If you’re having problems, the next step is diagnosis and correct replacement by a qualified professional.
Which is more important—AFCI or GFCI?
They protect against different hazards. GFCI focuses on shock protection (especially around moisture). AFCI focuses on fire prevention from arcing faults. Many homes benefit from both in different places.
GFCI protects against shock. AFCI helps prevent fires from arcing. If either one trips repeatedly, treat it as a warning — not an annoyance — and have it evaluated before it becomes a bigger safety issue.
BrightHome Advisor provides homeowner education only. This article does not provide wiring instructions. Electrical work should be performed by a licensed electrician.
BrightHome Advisor is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.
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