Installing Dual-Function Smart AFCI/GFCI Breakers in a 120/240V Smart Load Center

What Is a Dual-Function AFCI/GFCI Breaker?

A dual-function AFCI/GFCI breaker merges Arc‑Fault Circuit‑Interrupter (AFCI) and Ground‑Fault Circuit‑Interrupter (GFCI) protection into a single device. Installed in the service panel, it safeguards the entire branch circuit—from the breaker to the final outlet—meeting the safety mandates of the National Electrical Code (NEC).

The AFCI portion detects hazardous arcing caused by loose connections, damaged conductors, or deteriorated insulation. When an abnormal arcing signature is identified, the breaker trips, interrupting the circuit and mitigating fire risk.

The GFCI portion monitors the balance of current between the hot and neutral conductors. An imbalance of approximately 5 milliamps, indicative of leakage to ground, triggers an almost instantaneous trip to protect people from electric shock. By integrating both technologies, a dual‑function breaker delivers comprehensive protection against fire and shock hazards on a single circuit.

Code Requirements

NEC 210.8 requires GFCI protection, while NEC 210.12 mandates AFCI protection in bedrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and similar locations. When a branch circuit needs both types of protection, a dual‑function breaker is typically the most efficient solution, eliminating the need for separate devices.

For dwelling units, a circuit that serves a GFCI‑required location within an AFCI zone must have both protections. All 120V, 15A & 20A receptacle circuits serving kitchen countertops, for example, require dual protection. An electrician can install either an AFCI breaker with a GFCI receptacle or a dual‑function breaker to satisfy NEC 210.8 and 210.12.

Good to Know: A combo AFCI/GFCI breaker satisfies both NEC 210.12 (AFCI) and NEC 210.8 (GFCI) in one device, simplifying compliance.

Smart AFCI/GFCI Breakers

Leviton offers second‑generation smart AFCI/GFCI breakers (e.g., LB115-DST for 15A and LB120-DST for 20A) that support remote control via the My Leviton app. These breakers feature a short‑circuit current rating of 10 kA and allow you to turn the breaker ON/OFF, schedule operation, and review operational history—all from your smartphone.

Good to Know: Smart AFCI/GFCI breakers require a Leviton load center (such as LP220-BPD) and either an LDATA Hub or a Whole‑Home Energy Monitor (LWHEM) for full smart functionality.

Wiring a Dual-Function Smart AFCI/GFCI Breaker

Installing the Breaker

Switch OFF the main breaker in the panel or upstream disconnect. Verify power is OFF with a non‑contact tester.
Remove the panel cover to access the breaker bays. A 1‑pole breaker occupies one slot and snaps over a single busbar.
Position the breaker handle in the OFF position and snap the breaker onto the busbar.
Tighten all terminal screws to 25 in.‑lbs (or follow the torque value on the device’s back panel).

Installing Dual-Function Smart AFCI/GFCI Breakers in a 120/240V Smart Load Center

Connecting Load Conductors

Second‑generation smart AFCI/GFCI breakers are available only as 1‑pole units rated at 15A or 20A. Wiring is straightforward:

Strip approximately 0.4 inch (≈10 mm) of insulation from the load conductors.
Connect the hot (black) conductor to the brass screw on the breaker.
Connect the neutral (white) conductor to the silver screw on the breaker.
Bond the ground (bare or green) to the panel’s grounding busbar.

Warning: The load neutral must be attached to the breaker’s neutral terminal (marked "N"), not to the panel’s neutral busbar. The ground conductor must bond to the panel’s grounding bus, not to the breaker.

The wiring diagram below illustrates a 1‑pole, 120V smart AFCI/GFCI breaker wired with #14 AWG conductors to protect a 15A/120V outlet (NEMA 5-15).

Installing Dual-Function Smart AFCI/GFCI Breakers in a 120/240V Smart Load Center

Replace the panel cover, ensuring labels and handles remain visible. Restore power at the main breaker and set the smart AFCI/GFCI breaker to ON. If the breaker fails to stay ON or trips immediately, double‑check neutral and load connections. Refer to the LED status indicator troubleshooting table below for guidance.

Testing the Breaker

After restoring panel power, move the breaker handle from OFF to ON.

If the breaker remains ON and the handle window lights green, the wiring is correct and the breaker is operational.
If the breaker does not reset, re‑inspect wiring, consult the LED status indicator table, or contact a licensed electrician.

LED Status Indicator Troubleshooting Table

The following table explains the diagnostic meaning of each LED state on a smart AFCI/GFCI breaker.

Breaker Handle	AF LED	GF LED	ON/OFF LED	Device Status
Green	OFF	OFF	OFF	ON
Green	OFF	OFF	ON – Solid	Remote OFF
Red	OFF	OFF	OFF	Short‑circuit / Overload Trip
Red	ON – Solid	OFF	OFF	Series Arc Fault Trip
Red	OFF	ON – Solid	OFF	Ground Fault Trip
Red	ON – Blinking	OFF	OFF	1 Sec. Delay – Parallel Arc Fault Trip
Red	OFF	ON – Blinking	OFF	3 Sec. Delay – Neutral Miswired
Red	ON – Blinking	ON – Blinking	OFF	0.1 Sec. Delay – Replace Breaker
White	OFF	OFF	OFF	Manual OFF

Precautions

Always disconnect the power by switching OFF the main breaker before any electrical work.
Avoid installing AFCI, GFCI, AFCI/GFCI, or GFPE breakers on circuits with shared neutrals; such setups can cause nuisance tripping.
Do not use AFCI/GFCI breakers for life‑support equipment in hospitals or health‑service units—unnecessary tripping can interrupt critical power.
Install GFCI/AFCI breakers using only copper or copper‑clad conductors.
If you are unsure about any step, consult a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with local codes.
Exercise extreme caution when working with electricity; improper handling can cause injury, property damage, or death.
The author assumes no liability for any loss, injury, or damage resulting from the use or misinterpretation of this information or from improper installation of any circuit.