Question 1

I have GFCI outlets in my kitchen. Doesn't that cover arc faults too?

Accepted Answer

No — the most common mix-up we see. A GFCI receptacle only watches for ground faults; it has no arc-fault sensing. That protection comes from an AFCI or dual-function breaker at the panel, not the outlet with the TEST button.

Question 2

Will a whole-house surge protector protect my family from shocks?

Accepted Answer

No. An SPD diverts excess voltage to protect equipment; it doesn't monitor current imbalances and can't detect a ground fault. A shock scenario needs an electrician before anything gets reset.

Question 3

How do I know which one I have? The TEST button looks the same.

Accepted Answer

Read the face of the device. GFCI devices are labeled GFCI and cite UL 943. AFCI breakers are labeled AFCI or CAFCI and cite UL 1699. Dual-function breakers are labeled for both. Worn or unclear labels are a quick question for your electrician on the next service call — not something to guess at.

GFCI vs. AFCI vs. Surge Protection: Which Protects What in a Greater New Orleans Home

Surge protectors guard electronics, GFCIs guard people from shocks, AFCIs guard against electrical fires. The big three compared, for New Orleans homeowners.

The three in one table

GFCI: the one that guards people

AFCI: the one that guards the house itself

Surge protection: the one that guards your electronics

Why all three matter in South Louisiana

What none of them can do alone — and the breaker that does two

So which one does your house need first?

Three questions we get every week

Find quick, clear information to help you get started

I have GFCI outlets in my kitchen. Doesn't that cover arc faults too?

Will a whole-house surge protector protect my family from shocks?

How do I know which one I have? The TEST button looks the same.

GFCI vs. AFCI vs. Surge Protection: Which Protects What in a Greater New Orleans Home

Surge protectors guard electronics, GFCIs guard people from shocks, AFCIs guard against electrical fires. The big three compared, for New Orleans homeowners.

About us

The three in one table

GFCI: the one that guards people

AFCI: the one that guards the house itself

Surge protection: the one that guards your electronics

Why all three matter in South Louisiana

What none of them can do alone — and the breaker that does two

So which one does your house need first?

Three questions we get every week

Find quick, clear information to help you get started

Question

I have GFCI outlets in my kitchen. Doesn't that cover arc faults too?

Question

Will a whole-house surge protector protect my family from shocks?

Question

How do I know which one I have? The TEST button looks the same.