r/AskElectricians•
jbeckh2

Seimens QAF2 Breakers just started tripping constantly

I have a panel full of QAF2 Breakers that were installed in 2016 when the house was built. Our code requires AFCI for all living areas. Over the last 3 months, these breakers have started throwing for Arc Fault (there is an indicator on the breaker that lights up for a few seconds when reset that indicates arc fault). It started on the circuit where I have 2 computers. Those computers have been on that circuit for years. It then started happening on other circuits as well. Our robot vacuum (again have had for a few years) started popping the breaker for arc fault by just having the base plugged in. We have a lights only circuit that has started to do it as well. It isn't even consistent. The light may work fine for a week and then for one night, you can't turn it on without popping the breaker (LED bulbs in the fixture).

I know these breakers are bad for nuisance tripping, especially as they age. I've tried replacing two with QFGA2 (AFCI/GFCI dual) breakers because they have newer circuitry. Those are still popping on for arc fault as well.

I'm at a loss for options. My local electrician has told me replacing the entire panel to go with a brand with "better" (but still not perfect) AFCI breakers is about the only option because of the code requirement. I literally have my computer plugged into an extension cord that goes to a non-living area breaker. I'm pretty sure that's why AFCI was made mandatory is because of arcing in bad extension cords that cause fires. Seems this "protection" is a bunch of BS in a home with modern electronics.

Any suggestions? I order a 5-stage surge protector with noise isolation for the computer, but the light circuits and the lamps aren't going to be able to utilize those.

Posted Mar 6, 2026, 9:55 PM UTC

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