Rated for 20 amps, the Siemens Q220AF is a 2-pole branch/feeder arc fault circuit breaker for residential applications. It operates at 120/240VAC, providing essential protection against arcing faults. This plug-on breaker mounts into standard Siemens load centers and utilizes a pigtail neutral connection. It has been replaced by the Q220AFC combination AFCI breaker. Featuring a thermal-magnetic trip, it delivers a 10kAIC rating and meets UL 1699 standards for reliable arc detection.
Which load centers are compatible with the Siemens Q220AF circuit breaker?
The Q220AF is a Type QP breaker designed for use in Siemens PL, ES, EQ, and G series load centers. It is also backward compatible with many older ITE and Murray panels that accept Type QP plug-on breakers. Always verify compatibility with your panel's wiring diagram.
Can I install the Siemens Q220AF in an Eaton or Square D panel?
No. Siemens Type QP breakers are not interchangeable with Eaton, Square D, or GE panels. Installing this breaker in a non-approved panel voids the UL listing and creates a significant fire hazard. It must only be installed in UL-listed Siemens, ITE, or approved Murray enclosures.
What is the difference between the Q220AF and the Q220AFC?
The Q220AF is a Branch/Feeder Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI), while the newer Q220AFC is a Combination Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (CAFCI). The Q220AFC is often used as a direct replacement to meet updated National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements for combination-type arc fault protection.
How is the neutral connection handled on the Q220AF?
This breaker features a pigtail neutral wire. During installation, the coiled white pigtail must be routed and secured directly to the neutral bus bar in the load center to power the breaker's internal arc fault detection circuitry.
What type of arc fault protection does the Q220AF provide?
It provides branch/feeder arc fault protection, which detects high-energy parallel arcing faults (line-to-neutral or line-to-ground). It meets UL 1699 standards but does not provide the series arc detection found in newer combination AFCI (CAFCI) models.
Can the Q220AF be installed in a system with a 22kAIC fault current requirement?
No. The Q220AF has a maximum interrupting rating of 10kAIC at 120/240VAC. It cannot be used in panels or systems where the available fault current exceeds 10,000 amps. A breaker with a higher interrupting rating must be sourced for those applications.
What does the LI trip function code indicate on this breaker?
The LI designation means the thermal-magnetic trip unit provides Long-Time (L) and Instantaneous (I) protection. The Long-Time function prevents damage from sustained overloads, while the Instantaneous function trips the breaker immediately in the event of a severe short circuit.
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