If you’re upgrading your panel or building a new home in the Bay Area — especially in San Francisco, Palo Alto, or anywhere in between — you’ve probably heard about combination AFCI/GFCI breakers.
Let me break it down in simple terms.
🛡️ What Do They Protect Against?
Unlike standard breakers, combo AFCI/GFCI units protect your home in three ways:
Ground Faults — when electricity flows where it shouldn’t (like through you).
Short Circuits — direct contact between hot and neutral wires.
Arc Faults — tiny sparks inside walls caused by damaged or loose wiring.
Each of these is dangerous. But arc faults? They’re silent troublemakers — and a leading cause of electrical fires.
🔥 Why It Matters
These breakers detect problems before they become disasters. We’re talking about preventing both electric shock and house fires.
In fact, local building codes now require combo breakers in new construction — especially in bedrooms, kitchens, and living spaces.
🏠 New Home or Old Panel — It’s Worth Considering
Even if you’re not building from scratch, upgrading your breakers is a huge step for safety. I’ve installed these in:
Rental properties with kids
Homes with older wiring
Smart homes full of tech gear
At the end of the day, it’s about keeping your home — and your people — safe.
If you’re not sure what’s in your panel, just reach out. I’m happy to check.
— Roman, your local electrician from San Francisco to Palo Alto 🔧
