AFCI Protection: Why Your Home Needs It in Lake County, McHenry County & Southern Wisconsin
Electrical fires are a serious hazard, and many homeowners in Lake County, McHenry County, Southern Wisconsin, and the North Shore don’t realize the risks of outdated wiring. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) provide critical protection against electrical fires, making them essential for modern homes in Antioch, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Glencoe, Libertyville, Bull Valley, Johnsburg, Spring Grove, and Lake Geneva.
What is an AFCI?
An Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) is a specialized circuit breaker designed to detect dangerous electrical arcs and shut off power before they cause a fire. Unlike standard breakers, AFCIs sense irregular arc patterns caused by damaged wiring, loose connections, or faulty appliances—common issues in older homes.
Why AFCI Protection is Important
1. Prevents Electrical Fires
Arc faults occur when electrical currents jump between damaged wires, creating excessive heat that can ignite surrounding materials. AFCI breakers detect these arcs and instantly cut power, reducing fire risks.
2. Required by Electrical Code in New Homes
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires AFCI protection in most new homes. If your home was built before 2008, you may not have AFCI breakers installed, leaving you vulnerable to electrical fires.
3. Protects Aging Electrical Systems
Many homes in Libertyville, Johnsburg, and Bull Valley still rely on outdated wiring. Over time, insulation deteriorates, connections loosen, and hidden arc faults become a serious risk. Upgrading to AFCI breakers can significantly improve safety.
4. Reduces Fire Risks from Appliances & Extension Cords
Common household items—such as space heaters, old lamps, and frayed extension cords—can cause arc faults. AFCI protection helps detect these risks before they become dangerous.
5. Provides Peace of Mind
Electrical issues often go unnoticed until they cause major problems. Installing AFCI breakers ensures that your home is protected from hidden fire hazards, giving you confidence in your electrical system’s safety.
How to Know If Your Home Needs AFCI Protection
✅ Your home was built before 2008 and doesn’t have AFCI breakers
✅ You have frequent breaker trips or unexplained power disruptions
✅ Your home has outdated or knob-and-tube wiring
✅ You use a lot of extension cords or older appliances
✅ You want to ensure maximum electrical safety for your family
Professional Electrical Services in Your Area
At American Electric Company, we specialize in electrical upgrades for homes in Lake County, McHenry County, the North Shore, and Southern Wisconsin, serving cities like:
Lake County, IL
Antioch, Bannockburn, Deer Park, Deerfield, Grayslake, Gurnee, Highland Park, Highwood, Kildeer, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Lake Zurich, Libertyville, Lindenhurst, Long Grove, Mundelein, North Barrington, Round Lake, Riverwoods, Volo.
McHenry County, IL
Bull Valley, Crystal Lake, Johnsburg, Lakewood, Prairie Grove, Port Barrington, Spring Grove, Woodstock.
North Shore, IL
Glencoe, Highland Park, Highwood, Kenilworth, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Wilmette, Winnetka.
Southern Wisconsin
Burlington, Elkhorn, Lake Geneva, Pleasant Prairie..
Upgrade Your Electrical Panel with AFCI Breakers
At American Electric Company, we specialize in AFCI breaker installations for homes in Lake County, McHenry County, Southern Wisconsin, and the North Shore, including Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Glencoe, Libertyville, Antioch, and Lake Geneva. Whether you’re updating an older home or looking to improve electrical safety, our licensed electricians can help.
🔧 Schedule Your Electrical Inspection Today!
Don’t wait until an arc fault leads to a fire—upgrade your home’s electrical system with AFCI protection.
📞 Call us at 847-252-1757 or schedule an appointment online for expert service and peace of mind!
