# AFCI and GFCI Testing **URL:** \ **Category:** General Inspection Discussion\ **Created:** [April 30, 2026, 12:37am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158 "2026-04-30T00:37:00Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![kjohnson99](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/kjohnson99/32/407601_2.png) [@kjohnson99](https://forum.nachi.org/u/kjohnson99)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 12:37am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/1 "2026-04-30T00:37:01Z")
I’ve just completed the Electrical Inspection section of the course. I’ve been in construction most of my life, but electrical is something I haven’t dealt with much. It was an information overload. Makes me a little nervous. Testing all AFCI and GFCI test buttons are a must. What implications do we carry when turning off power to maybe sensitive computer systems, ect. Alarms, Alarm Systems, clocks, ect. Thanks ---
**Author:** ![ccurrins](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/ccurrins/32/225758_2.png) [@ccurrins](https://forum.nachi.org/u/ccurrins)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 12:40am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/2 "2026-04-30T00:40:21Z")
> [@kjohnson99](#): > > Testing all AFCI and GFCI test buttons are a must. What implications do we carry when turning off power to maybe sensitive computer systems, ect. Alarms, Alarm Systems, clocks, ect. Thanks To try your best not to test either of those when anything is plugged in to their circuit. Especially testing AFCI and GFCI Breakers at an occupied home, I do not test those, only at non-occupied. ---
**Author:** ![sfetty](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/sfetty/32/331195_2.png) [@sfetty](https://forum.nachi.org/u/sfetty)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 12:52am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/3 "2026-04-30T00:52:57Z")
Be sure to fore warn any occupants prior to testing. Always check (and document) that items like freezers and refrigerators are on/running before you leave a property. ---
**Author:** ![sfetty](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/sfetty/32/331195_2.png) [@sfetty](https://forum.nachi.org/u/sfetty)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 12:59am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/4 "2026-04-30T00:59:05Z")
I remember one years ago where the GFCI tripped and failed upon testing. There was a frige on the circuit. I used one of my extension cords to plug in the frige until the electrician fixed the problem. Picked up the cord a couple weeks later. Moral of the story carry an extra extension cord JIC you need to CYA. If I remember correctly there are accounts here in the archives of people tripping a GFCI and winding up paying for half a Beef and a new freezer. ---
**Author:** ![ruecker](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/ruecker/32/357170_2.png) [@ruecker](https://forum.nachi.org/u/ruecker)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 1:02am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/5 "2026-04-30T01:02:52Z")
It’s a bit of a balancing act. Don’t trip circuits that you think something important might be plugged into. Don’t remotely trip using the test button on your tester if you think the reset may be difficult to find. As with everything, once you have some experience you will kinda get a feel for when you should test them or not. But make sure to have a disclaimer in your report that explains to your client why certain GFCI/AFCI components may not have been tested. ---
**Author:** ![mwilles](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/mwilles/32/181480_2.png) [@mwilles](https://forum.nachi.org/u/mwilles)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 1:10am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/6 "2026-04-30T01:10:18Z")
> [@kjohnson99](#): > > What implications do we carry when turning off power to maybe sensitive computer systems, ect. Alarms, Alarm Systems, clocks, ect. Thanks I’ve had a number of modems not reboot. Clients on the phone with their provider and I’m liable. Happened twice. They got things up and running on the servers end so all is good. I stopped testing those buttons after that and simply report on their presence. Recommended testing monthly. ---
**Author:** ![kjohnson99](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/kjohnson99/32/407601_2.png) [@kjohnson99](https://forum.nachi.org/u/kjohnson99)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 2:45am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/7 "2026-04-30T02:45:04Z")
Good info. Thank You ---
**Author:** ![msenty](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/msenty/32/271584_2.png) [@msenty](https://forum.nachi.org/u/msenty)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 2:45am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/8 "2026-04-30T02:45:49Z")
I do test all GFCI outlets where required to be installed. I use the test button on the GFCI outlet, or I’ll use my test device button on outlets that should be served by an adjacent GFCI outlet or breaker. I discover a _lot_ of outlets in wet locations that are not GFCI protected: exterior, kitchen, bathroom. I consider it an important safety item, and it’s a component of the SOP. I shudder when testing exterior outlets, especially if I don’t hear the click. On occasion I have had to do deep searching to find the GFCI controlling outlet. Homeowner GFCI wiring can be unique. I don’t test Arc Fault breakers, despite the SOP. I haven’t had any complaints and haven’t broken anything or permanently turned off a freezer. On the rare occasion that I can’t find the controlling GFCI outlet, I leave a note and contact the realtors. ---
**Author:** ![lhenderson2](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/lhenderson2/32/58205_2.png) [@lhenderson2](https://forum.nachi.org/u/lhenderson2)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 1:16pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/9 "2026-04-30T13:16:52Z")
> [@mwilles](#): > > Clients on the phone with their provider and I’m liable. Why would you be liable? ---
**Author:** ![jjonas](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/jjonas/32/301755_2.png) [@jjonas](https://forum.nachi.org/u/jjonas)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 1:24pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/10 "2026-04-30T13:24:45Z")
> [@lhenderson2](#): > > Why would you be liable? IMO, not powering down the system before disrupting the power source. Yes, I know, there’s a thousand ways that conversation could go, but the “Provider” don’t give a rats ass about any of that. Bottom line, it’s not the Providers fault, you “touched it last”, so YOU are the guilty party! ---
**Author:** ![mwilles](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/mwilles/32/181480_2.png) [@mwilles](https://forum.nachi.org/u/mwilles)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 1:30pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/11 "2026-04-30T13:30:19Z")
> [@lhenderson2](#): > > Why would you be liable? As Jeffrey stated, I didn’t power down the router and I could have damaged it. Any appliance I damaged by testing a circuit would be my responsibility. That’s just the way I roll. ---
**Author:** ![bcawhern1](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/bcawhern1/32/408713_2.png) [@bcawhern1](https://forum.nachi.org/u/bcawhern1)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 1:30pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/12 "2026-04-30T13:30:56Z")
> [@jjonas](#): > > IMO, not powering down the system before disrupting the power source. Like Chris mentioned above. I do not power down systems. A table lamp is one thing but today’s electronics including; smart home devices, alarm systems, entertainment systems, gaming systems, routers, computers, etc. are off limits IMO. ---
**Author:** ![aponder](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/aponder/32/60168_2.png) [@aponder](https://forum.nachi.org/u/aponder)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 8:20pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/13 "2026-04-30T20:20:30Z")
Well, the responses here have me second-guessing my procedures. When I’m at the panel I always test the AFCIs or GFCIs. I’ve never had a home owner call me and complain. I have discovered a multitude of units that have failed over the years. Most recently those tan Eaton breakers that spark out when you test them. They have me jumpy when I test them. As others have mentioned, I do test in outlets that are in wet areas (outdoors, kitchens, baths, laudrys, garages, etc) to make sure they’re on a GFCI, and there have been a few that I’ve had to hunt down in some unfamiliar places. Now that I’m reading the responses, the question I’m asking myself is; “How can I report to my client that the AFCI/GFCIs are in good working order?”, and what happens if one fails, there’s an injury, and I’m asked if I tested it? In Alabama the SOP states “The home inspector shall inspect …the ground fault circuit interrupters.” It doesn’t say how we’re supposed to inspect, just that we are to inspect. The term “Inspect” is defined as “To examine readily accessible systesm and components of a building in accordance with these Standards of Practice, using normal operating controls an dopening readily openable access panels.” To me, that means, test the AFCI/GFCI. ---
**Author:** ![kleonard](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/kleonard/32/170953_2.png) [@kleonard](https://forum.nachi.org/u/kleonard)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 8:39pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/14 "2026-04-30T20:39:14Z")
I’ve been testing them all for the 23 years that I’ve been inspecting houses and have never had an issue with a seller. There has been a time or two when I couldn’t find the GFCI re-set, in that case I just call the LA and inform them that I couldn’t find it, and note it in the report. If the home is occupied, I test one AFCI device at a time and re-set immediately, most if not all electronic equipment have capacitors that will power the device for a short period of time. IMO my clients are paying me to test these, if they’re not functioning as they’re supposed to, the inspection is the time to find it. Also, it’s written into Ohio Home Inspection Licensing law that these devises “shall” be tested, granted that it’s safe to do so. [1301$17-1-17\_20210101.pdf](https://codes.ohio.gov/assets/laws/administrative-code/authenticated/1301/17/1/1301$17-1-17_20210101.pdf) > (T) A licensee shall inspect a propertys readily accessible components of the electrical system > during a home inspection and report in the home inspection report the licensees findings related to all of the following: > > (1) Service drop; > (2) Service entrance conductors, cables and raceways; > (3) Service equipment and main disconnects; > (4) Service grounding; > (5) Interior parts or components of a service panels and subpanels; > (6) Conductors; > (7) Overcurrent protection devices; > (8) A representative sample of installed light fixtures, switches and receptacles; > (9) **Ground fault circuit interrupters and arc fault circuit interrupters** ---
**Author:** ![bcawhern1](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/bcawhern1/32/408713_2.png) [@bcawhern1](https://forum.nachi.org/u/bcawhern1)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 9:04pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/15 "2026-04-30T21:04:30Z")
> [@aponder](#): > > To me, that means, test the AFCI/GFCI. Or not tested because: 1. Home owners electronics 2. Inaccessible 3. Unsafe Just a thought. Do what is right for you! 🙂 ---
**Author:** ![lhenderson2](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/lhenderson2/32/58205_2.png) [@lhenderson2](https://forum.nachi.org/u/lhenderson2)\ **Post date:** [April 30, 2026, 10:40pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/16 "2026-04-30T22:40:08Z")
> [@aponder](#): > > “How can I report to my client that the AFCI/GFCIs are in good working order?”, and what happens if one fails, there’s an injury, and I’m asked if I tested it? You can simply disclaim them. > [@jjonas](#): > > IMO, not powering down the system before disrupting the power source. Well, since my power goes off at least once a month and my router doesn’t seem to care, I admit that I never considered that. > [@mwilles](#): > > As Jeffrey stated, I didn’t power down the router and I could have damaged it. Any appliance I damaged by testing a circuit would be my responsibility. That’s just the way I roll. We all operate within our comfort zones. I look at this a little differently. I test all GFCIs unless grandma’s iron lung is plugged into it. GFCIs are in our SoP. I treat AFCIs differently because so many things are on those circuits. I had one seller call me complaining that I had messed up the recording of her soap opera. I had inadvertently tripped the AFCI on that circuit. I said sorry and that was it. Somehow, I got over it. BUT, AFCIs are a safety device. If you test them and test them at every inspection, then that is your personal SoP. If some appliance doesn’t like it, then I submit to you and everyone, that you identified a defective appliance. Everything made that plugs in, is designed for a disruption in power because those happen everywhere and often. Many electronics don’t like power disruptions, but all get over it unless they are inferior or defective. You did not break anything. You tested an important safety device. Identifying a defective AFCI could save the life of a small child or even the kitty. (BTW, I stopped a p-oed agent cold with a similar statement.) I know that I just made a case for testing AFCIs in occupied homes, and I don’t because a) not required in our SoP b) the grief from complaints about resetting timers, DVRs, and more is just not something I need c) when I used to test them, I rarely found a defective one, although one bad one spectacularly exploded. ---
**Author:** ![rthornburg](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/rthornburg/32/60113_2.png) [@rthornburg](https://forum.nachi.org/u/rthornburg)\ **Post date:** [May 1, 2026, 12:00am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/17 "2026-05-01T00:00:49Z")
I test all GFI’s and only AFCI’s only when the home is vacant. My reasoning is AFCI’s may have equipment like computers plugged into it. GFI’s rarely have anything important plugged in and I always reset it. It sucks if you can’t find the reset for the one the deep freezer is plugged into. When I do a house with a deep freezer I always make sure the last picture I take before leaving is the one of the freezer with the light on… ---
**Author:** ![tsayre3](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/tsayre3/32/363444_2.png) [@tsayre3](https://forum.nachi.org/u/tsayre3)\ **Post date:** [May 1, 2026, 10:42am UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/18 "2026-05-01T10:42:39Z")
> [@aponder](#): > > **It doesn’t say how we’re supposed to inspect** , just that we are to inspect. The term “Inspect” is defined as “To examine readily accessible systesm and components of a building in accordance with these Standards of Practice, **using normal operating controls** an dopening readily openable access panels.” it sounds to me like they want you to use the button to test them. or whatever the normal operating control is. ---
**Author:** ![lmorrison](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/lmorrison/32/58376_2.png) [@lmorrison](https://forum.nachi.org/u/lmorrison)\ **Post date:** [May 2, 2026, 2:11pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/19 "2026-05-02T14:11:26Z")
Unless it is a totally vacant home and or New Construction you (in most instances) will not be able test all GFCIs and AFCIs. You also should make sure you have access to be able to Reset any that are tripped and in most instances best to not use the test button on the test device, but the receptacle or breaker test button. Here in Utah (except for a few municipalities) AFCIs are no longer required by code, so that made my (pre-retirement) life a little easier. As others have mentioned, try and make sure there are not vital appliances on these circuits before tripping. I chose to not trip garage circuits if a fridge or freezer was present. Good to have a couple of “Canned Statements” you can slip in when there are limitations on testing. You will also find with experience that electricians wired circuits differently through the years. ---
**Author:** ![rmeier2](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/internachi/user_avatar/forum.nachi.org/rmeier2/32/59909_2.png) [@rmeier2](https://forum.nachi.org/u/rmeier2)\ **Post date:** [May 2, 2026, 3:16pm UTC](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158/20 "2026-05-02T15:16:17Z")
Unless someone is locked away in a room on an electric life support device both AFCI and GFCI devices should be tested. The person selling the house should understand that they may have to reset clocks or other electronic devices. If they don’t then it’s the realtors job to enlighten them. After all they’re selling the house and the buyer has a right to know that these safety devices are actually working. [Next page](https://forum.nachi.org/t/afci-and-gfci-testing/267158.md?page=2)