William,
Thanks, that bears out what I was able to find on the internet about AFCIs.
Charles…without going into ALOT of detail…since the article I will post will give you the answer. Some of the newer models coming out today do provide both Parralel and Series protection.
Here is the link : http://www.ul.com/regulators/ode/0305.pdf
But basically…the newer models and standards are as listed:
The branch/feeder type AFCI device is installed at the origin of the branch circuit or feeder at a panelboard and functions to de-energize the entire branch circuit when an arcing fault is detected. These devices can be self-contained within an enclosure or as part of a circuit breaker. Since this device is located at the origin of the branch circuit or feeder, upstream protection is not an issue, but it will provide parallel-arcing protection and series protection for circuits with ground. It will not provide series-arc protection for circuits that are not grounded and will not provide series-arcing protection for extension-cord sets and power-supply cords.
AS for the heat…me and Greg have talked about this alot…to be honest with you I think we both are on a WAIT and SEE type basis…all really depends on if the 2008 NEC is adopted in the final form that would require all 15A and 20A Branch Circuits to be AFCI Protected…then we will just have to see…
However , yes they will run a bit more warmer than the standard breaker…but I would venture to say not more than 20-30 degrees…but again thats no a scientific study…just a Wednesday Night Statement.
Thanks guys. Suspected as much but it never hurts to ask or to admit you just don’t know as in my case on this. I did not believe 105 deg to be alarming but anything out of the ordinary deserves a second look. and a third…