5.2
Testing AFCI and GFCI Circuit Breakers
A.
Turn off all loads supplied by AFCI and GFCI circuit breakers prior to testing.
B.
Ensure that power is turned on to circuit breakers prior to testing. Ensure that circuit
breaker handle is fully in the ON position.
C.
Test circuit breakers by pressing the TEST button. Circuit breakers should trip when the
TEST button is pressed, and the handle should move to the center or TRIPPED position.
Reset circuit breakers by moving the handle fully to the OFF position, then fully to the
ON position.
D.
If the circuit breaker opens when the TEST button is pressed and can be reset, the circuit
breaker is functioning properly.
E.
If the circuit breaker does not open when the test button is pressed or cannot be reset, the
circuit breaker is defective and must be replaced immediately.
5.3
Testing AFCI and GFCI Receptacles
A.
Plug an appliance, such as a radio, nightlight, or lamp, into the receptacle and all
protected downstream receptacles prior to testing.
B.
With the appliances on, press the TEST button on the receptacle. The appliances should
be immediately de-energized, and the RESET button should pop out.
C.
Reset the receptacle by pressing the RESET button. The RESET button should snap back
into place, and the appliances should be re-energized.
D.
If the appliances are de-energized and the RESET button on the receptacle pops out, the
receptacle is functioning properly.
E.
If the appliances are not de-energized and the RESET button pops out, the receptacle is
improperly wired or is not working and must be replaced immediately.
F.
If the RESET button does not pop out, the receptacle is defective and must be replaced
immediately.
G.
If the RESET button does not reset the receptacle, there may be a fault on the branch
circuit wiring or from a defective appliance, or the receptacle may be defective. Replace
the receptacle immediately. If the new receptacle will not reset, troubleshoot AFCIs,
GFCIs, fixed wiring and appliances in accordance with Annex A.
