Why does my electrician recommend AFCI breakers?

Your electrician is recommending AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breakers because they're required by the current Ontario Electrical Code for most residential circuits and provide critical fire protection by detecting dangerous electrical arcs that standard breakers miss.

AFCI breakers are designed to detect arc faults - electrical arcs that can occur when wiring is damaged, connections are loose, or insulation deteriorates. These arcs generate intense heat (up to 6,000°F) and are a leading cause of electrical fires in homes. Unlike regular breakers that only trip on overloads or short circuits, AFCI breakers can identify the unique electrical signature of a dangerous arc and shut off power before a fire starts.

Current Ontario Requirements and ESA Standards

Under the current Ontario Electrical Code (which follows the Canadian Electrical Code), AFCI protection is mandatory for most 15A and 20A branch circuits serving living areas in new construction and major renovations. This includes bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, family rooms, and similar spaces. The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) enforces these requirements during inspections, and any electrical work requiring a permit must comply with current code standards.

For existing homes, while you're not required to retrofit AFCI breakers unless doing electrical work, many Toronto electricians recommend upgrading during panel replacements or circuit additions. This is especially important in older GTA homes where original wiring may be 30+ years old and more susceptible to deterioration.

Toronto-Specific Considerations

In Toronto's housing stock, which includes many century homes and post-war bungalows, aging electrical systems are common. Homes in neighborhoods like Cabbagetown, The Annex, or older areas of Scarborough and Etobicoke often have electrical systems installed decades ago. As insulation on older wiring degrades or connections loosen over time, arc fault risk increases significantly.

Cost and Installation

AFCI breakers cost approximately $45-80 each compared to $8-15 for standard breakers in the Toronto market. While the upfront cost is higher, the fire protection they provide makes them a worthwhile investment. Installation requires a qualified electrician and ESA permit for most work, typically adding $200-400 in labor costs depending on the number of circuits being upgraded.

Next Steps

Trust your electrician's recommendation - they're following current safety standards and protecting your home. If you're doing any electrical work that requires ESA permits, AFCI breakers will likely be mandatory anyway. For older homes, consider this upgrade as valuable insurance against electrical fires, especially if you're already upgrading your electrical panel or adding circuits.