Safety Starts Here: The Evolution of Protection from AFCI to Dual Function Outlets

Leviton GFCI being removed from wall

Electrical safety has come a long way over the years, but one thing remains constant: protecting people and homes from electrical hazards is essential. As electrical systems have evolved, so have the technologies designed to help reduce the risk of fires and shock hazards.

Creating safer homes has long been a driving force behind Leviton's innovation. From introducing our AFCI outlet in 2012 to launching the industry's first Dual Function AFCI/GFCI outlet in 2016, we've continued to develop solutions that help contractors, homeowners, and DIYers create safer, code-compliant homes.

Understanding Arc-Fault Protection

Common Causes of Arc Faults in Homes

Not all electrical hazards are easy to detect. Arc faults often develop out of sight when wiring or cords become damaged, worn, or loosely connected. The resulting electrical arcing creates intense heat that can ignite nearby materials and start a fire. Because many of these hazards are hiddin behind walls or inside cords, homeowners may have no visible warning signs before a fire starts.

Discolored Outlet in Wall

How does an Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter work?

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) technology is designed to continuously monitor electrical systems, detect the unique characteristics of arcing, and disconnect power before a fire can start. By identifying hidden electrical hazards before they become serious problems, AFCI protection adds an important layer of safety for homeowners while helping contractors meet code requirements and create safer, more resilient electrical installations.

For years AFCI protection was primarily available at the electrical panel through circuit breakers. In 2012, Leviton expanded installation options by introducing our AFCI outlet, giving electricians and homeowners a flexible alternative for adding code-required arc-fault protection where needed.

What are the Benefits of AFCI Outlets?

  • Protection against dangerous arc faults
  • Reduced risk of electrical fires
  • Support for meeting NEC requirements
  • Flexible installation options for renovations and existing homes
  • Convenient troubleshooting - Restore power at the outlet instead of resetting a breaker in the panel.

Building on Innovation: The First Dual Function AFCI/GFCI Outlet

Electrical safety doesn't stop with fire prevention. In many areas of the home, protection from electrical shock is equally important.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) technology helps protect people from electrical shock by monitoring current flow and quickly disconnecting power when a ground fault is detected. GFCI protection is commonly required in locations where water may be present, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, garages, and basements.

Recognizing that electrical safety often requires more than a single layer of protection, Leviton introduced another industry milestone in 2016: the first Dual Function AFCI/GFCI Outlet which is designed to help protect against both arc fault and ground fault hazards.

By combining both technologies into a single device, Dual Function outlets deliver two layers of protection in one convenient solution.

Benefits of Dual Function AFCI/GFCI Outlet

  • Arc fault protection to help prevent electrical fires
  • Ground fault protection to help reduce shock hazards
  • Support for code compliance
  • Two critical protections in a single device
Painted Outlet

Why Dual Function Outlet Protection Matters

Modern homes contain more connected devices, appliances, and electronics than ever before. As electrical demands increase, so does the importance of comprehensive protection.

Dual Function outlets are designed to help address both major electrical hazards:

Arc Fault Hazards

  • Damaged wiring
  • Loose electrical connections
  • Aging cords and devices
  • Hidden arcing conditions inside walls

 

Ground Fault Hazards

  • Contact between electricity and water
  • Faulty appliances
  • Wet or damp environments
  • Accidental shock risks

 

Combining both arc fault and ground fault protection can help make homes safer while simplifying installation and supporting compliance with current electrical code requirements. Dual Function AFCI/GFCI outlets are commonly used in locations where both types of protection may be required, such as kitchens, laundry areas, and finished basements, providing protection against electrical fires caused by arc faults and shock hazards caused by ground faults in a single device. This approach can help reduce the need for multiple protective devices, streamline electrical upgrades, and support safer installations throughout the home. 

Painted Outlet

Leviton's Continued Commitment to Safer Homes

Loose Plug in Outlet

Electrical safety starts with the right protection. Whether it's helping reduce the risk of electrical fires through AFCI technology or protecting against shock hazards with GFCI protection, these devices play an important role in creating safer living environments. 

For more than a decade, Leviton has continued to advance receptacle-based protection technologies that help contractors, builders, and homeowners adapt to evolving safety standards.

From the introduction of the AFCI outlet in 2012 to the launch of the first Dual Function AFCI/GFCI outlet in 2016, our focus has remained the same; delivering innovative solutions that help protect people, property, and the places they call home.

Safety starts with protection. Innovation starts with Leviton.

Learn more about electrical safety solutions at Leviton.com/safety