Which type of circuit breaker is typically used for residential branch circuits?

The best type of circuit breaker typically used for residential branch circuits is the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). GFCI breakers are designed to protect against electrical shock by monitoring the current flowing through the circuit and interrupting the power if an imbalance is detected, which can occur if electricity is flowing through an unintended path, such as water or a person.

In residential settings, GFCI breakers are particularly important in areas where there is a higher risk of electrical shock, such as bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor circuits, and in proximity to water sources. By providing this additional layer of safety, GFCI breakers significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents.

While other types of breakers, such as single-pole breakers, double-pole breakers, and arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCI), are also used in residential applications, they serve different functions. Single-pole breakers are commonly used for standard 120-volt circuits, double-pole breakers for 240-volt circuits, and AFCIs are designed to prevent electrical fires caused by arc faults in wiring. Each type of breaker plays a role in overall electrical safety, but for protection against shock specifically in residential areas, GFCI breakers are essential.