Afci & gfci on same circuit??

[chuck b]

Wiring small cottage. Wish to have benefit of an Arc Fault Circuit Breaker for the wiring on the way to the GFCI protected bathroom from the panel. Is that advisable, effective and safe?

Thinking that the hazards that an Arc Fault Interruptor guards against (over heating wires, nails from wall finishing installation-drywall, knotty pine board nails) contacting the wires inadvertantly, would not be protected by a GFCI receptacle further down the circuit from the panel and wiring travelling to the bathroom.

I know code does not require this, but wondering if this would a bit more safety insurance. Please advise. Thanks.

[jadnashua]

While maybe not as convenient if it gets tripped, you can put in a GFCI CB instead of a GFCI receptacle. The two devices should co-exist. See what the sparkies say.

[Chad Schloss]

It's perfectly fine to have afci and gfci on the same circuit. If you are planning on one circuit for the bath, which you can do, you must use a 20a breaker and run 12 gauge wire to the gfci and lighting in the bathroom. code requires a dedicated 20a circuit to serve the bathroom. this circuit cannot leave the bathroom or be tied into any other rooms.

[ActionDave]

Nothing wrong with a GFCI recpt on a AFCI protected circuit. It is common in new homes with a wet bar located in somewhere in the house other than the kitchen.

[jbfan74]

I would not go with the extra exspense, but it is your house, go for it.
Are you also going to do the kitchen this way?

[jadnashua]

Depending on where you live, AFCI breakers are now required in many home locations...you should check your local code cycle...IOW, you may not have a choice!

[Chad Schloss]

AFCI Breakers are not required in bathrooms or kitchens or laundry rooms.