AFCI vs GFCI, does AFCI include same GFCI protection

[Daria B.]

I know AFCI is a newer type for arc fault protection. 

As the subject title indicates, Is this an either or type of receptacle?

Searching Lowes and Home Depot sites for cost but wondering if AFCI supersedes GFCI and includes the same protection plus the arc fault? 

Thanks 

[Robert S.]

@Daria B. Good day Daria, I’m a licensed electrical contractor in NJ. Perhaps I can shed some light on your questions. The AFCI and GFCI protections are different types of protection. AFCI is required for all circuits in new construction and GFCI is required for all receptacles around water, outside and unfinished spaces. So, if you build a new home, the preferred method of installation is to install AFCI circuit breakers throughout the electric panel and then when you get to kitchen, bathroom(s) and exterior, install a GFCI receptacle at the first location so all receptacles past the first one receive both AFCI and GFCI protection. If you have any other questions, I would be more than happy to answer them. Best of luck.