We have been unable to operate power tools on AFCI protected circuits, even in new construction. No brush operated motor (almost all cord fed power tools) should be able to operate under AFCI protection by their very design. (What is the difference between the arc in brush operated motors and objectional arcs caused by loose or improper connections?) So by next year all home owners will have to change to cordless tools, and hope they will work. Note that the typical arc when a cordless charger is plugged in or unplugged will often trip these devices. How can a proper test be made without simulating an actual smoking arc? How will HID lighting operate, which depends on a continuous arc to operate? GFCI's are an entirely different technology and they work. Roger Roossinck
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