UTS10BI - GFCI and AFCI

[Hayabusa]

Hello:

I had a UTS10BI in my previous, older home - and I just installed the UTS10BI in my new home.  This home was built last year and, because of code, 2 circuits of the UTS are connected to GFCI breakers, and one is connected to an AFCI breaker.  The UTS functions as expected with utility power, and with generator power.  When I plug a UPS unit into either the 'Convenience Outlet' or the 'UPS Input', one of the GFCI breakers will trip.  Not a big deal, as I don't particularly need the UPS to be connected.  While researching to find out why this is happening, I discovered the UTS only wants to be connected to outlet mounted GFCIs (not breakers) because the neutral (2 wires) is shared for all UTS circuits.   

My question is this:  If I keep the UTS connected to my GFCI / AFCI breakers, does it negate the GFCI function making those circuits unsafe / not to code?  I'm assuming that since the UTS is *between* the breaker and the outlets, that it does negate the GFCI.  Again, the unit works fine with utility power and generator power...  Worse case scenario, I suppose I could change to outlet GFCIs.  Not sure if there's a way around the AFCI (lights)?

Thank you in advance!

[Teken · Accepted solution]

You can easily test if the circuit is still protected by the AFCI / GFCI breakers.

By using a AFCI / GFCI tester to see if the related breakers trip as expected. 👍

[Hayabusa]

Great idea - thank you!  

[Teken]

As a friendly reminder you must purchase a unit that supports both AFCI / GFCI. The best value and certified tester is from Klein as seen here:

https://a.co/d/fYTP0Rc

If any of the information was helpful please mark it as a solution. So it may help the next person asking the same. 👍

[Hayabusa]

Thank you again, I really appreciate it.  I purchased the Klein RT310 and tested various circuits in the house.  Both the GFCI and AFCI breakers are working as they should - the LED trip indicator on the breakers properly reflect the cause of each fault.  Very relieved! 😅

[Teken]

Great to hear and appreciate the feedback as to the results. As a reminder both AFCI / GFCI should be tested every month.

This test must be conducted using both the breaker (test button) and a point of use tester like the Klein you have on the branch circuits.

The reason for doing so is to validate at the source and load sides. 

Rock On . . . 👍