GE Q-Line THQL 20-Amp 1-Pole Dual function AFCI/GFCI Circuit Breaker - 71223235
The 2014 NEC has mandated Ground Fault and Arc Fault circuit protection on many 15 Amp and 20 Amp kitchen and laundry circuits. General Electric offers both Ground Fault and Combination Arc Fault (GFCI and CAFCI) protection in a simple to apply and cost effective solution. GFCI protection guards against ground fault as an effective means of preventing electrical shocks. GFCI circuit breakers accomplish this by detecting when current is "leaking" somewhere outside its intended path. If your body provides path to ground for this "leakage" you could be burned, shocked or even electrocuted. CAFCI protection guards against damage or fires which can result from arcing and sparking that can arise from deteriorated wires, poor connections and breaches in wire insulation. With more than 67,000 home fires claiming more than 485 lives and injuring 2,300 victims annually, the added safety provided by CAFCI protection is an important step forward in reducing this risk.
Features
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Provides ground fault and arc fault circuit protection
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LED blinks on trip to show the last know trip condition
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Automatic and continuous self-testing feature
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GE DFCI has important features for assisting you or your electrician in troubleshooting a trip, should the DFCI trip, the yellow LED will blink to indicate the last known trip condition
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Indicates the last known trip condition by illuminating LED appearing for 5 seconds each time the DFCI is turned on for up to 30 days
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Unit’s last known trip condition can be cleared by performing a series of functions provided in the instructions
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DFCI has a self-test feature that meets a June 2015 requirement from UL on all ground fault circuit breakers
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Must be used with a dedicated neutral can't be used with a shared neutral
What our Experts Think
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Dual Safety Protection in One Device
Combines AFCI (arc-fault) + GFCI (ground-fault) protection, reducing risk of electrical fires and shock from a single breaker.
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Code-Driven Modern Protection
Designed to meet NEC requirements for kitchens, laundry, and living areas, where both arc and ground fault protection are increasingly required.
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Fast Fault Detection Technology
Continuously monitors the circuit and trips instantly on dangerous arc faults or leakage currents, improving home safety response time.
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Advanced Diagnostic LED Indicator
Built-in LED system helps identify trip cause (arc fault vs ground fault), simplifying troubleshooting and maintenance.
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Self-Test Function for Reliability
Performs automatic internal checks to ensure protection systems remain functional over time.
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Space-Efficient 1-Pole Design
Fits standard GE Q-Line panels while providing two layers of protection in a single breaker slot, helping manage limited panel space.
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Professional-Grade Installation Use
Compatible with GE THQL load centers and designed for licensed electrician installation in residential and light commercial systems.
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Expert Tip
Requires proper wiring setup (including neutral handling) and must match panel compatibility exactly to ensure safe operation.
Q&A
Q: What is this breaker used for?
A: It protects a 20-amp circuit from overloads, short circuits, arc faults (AFCI), and ground faults (GFCI) in one device.
Q: What does “dual function AFCI/GFCI” mean?
A: It combines arc-fault protection (fire prevention) and ground-fault protection (shock prevention) in a single breaker.
Q: Where is it commonly installed?
A: Used in residential panels for bedrooms, kitchens, laundry areas, and other code-required AFCI/GFCI locations.
Q: Is it compatible with all panels?
A: It is designed for GE Q-Line/PowerMark and compatible ABB/GE load centers (must match panel type).
Q: Does it include safety testing features?
A: Yes, it has a self-test function and LED indicators to help identify trip conditions.
Q: How does it help with safety?
A: It detects arc faults that can cause fires and ground faults that can cause electric shock, then shuts power off quickly.
Q: Is it easy to troubleshoot when it trips?
A: Yes, the LED indicator helps show the last known fault type for easier diagnosis.
Q: What wire sizes does it support?
A: Typically accepts #14–8 AWG copper and #12–8 AWG aluminum conductors.
Q: Why choose this GE dual-function breaker?
A: It reduces panel space needs by combining AFCI + GFCI protection while meeting modern electrical safety code requirements.
Maintenance Tips
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Test monthly: Use the built-in TEST button to confirm both AFCI and GFCI protection are working properly.
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Check panel tightness annually: Ensure the breaker is firmly seated in the load center and no loose wiring is present.
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Watch LED indicators: Pay attention to trip lights—these help identify arc fault vs ground fault issues for faster troubleshooting.
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Keep panel dry and clean: Avoid moisture, dust, and insects inside the electrical panel enclosure.
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Avoid overloading circuits: Stay within 20A limit to prevent nuisance trips and heat stress.
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Inspect wiring condition: Look for discoloration, wear, or loose neutral connections during periodic electrical checkups.
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Use only compatible GE/ABB panels: Ensure proper fit in approved load centers like GE PowerMark systems.
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Have a licensed electrician inspect yearly: Dual-function breakers are sensitive safety devices and benefit from professional checks.
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