An AFDD game changer to protect homes and devices

Our new AFDD with ProTools is the ideal product solution for housebuilders looking to provide the highest standards of safety protection for their clients and comply with new rules. Ash Knowles, National Residential Specification Manager for Hager, explains more. 

The continued objective to drive safety standards across the electrical industry has seen Amendment 2 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations become a reality. The newly imposed changes are designed to further improve protection of buildings, including homes, and ensure current legislation remains in tune with ongoing technological advances.

The changes include a focus on the use of AFDDs. It means that from 28 September 2022, they become mandatory for use in certain settings such as higher risk residential buildings and houses of multiple occupation. However, AFDDs are now also ‘recommended’ for all single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket outlets not exceeding 32 A. 

Crucially, this includes installation within the new homes housebuilders are creating today. 

Unique diagnostic software

Our new AFDD with ProTools contains a microprocessor which runs a sophisticated algorithm, continuously checking the electrical circuits for any indication of an arc fault. Whilst an extensive testing program has provided a stable platform for today, it is possible that an electrical goods manufacturer may create an electrical device with a different waveform signature, thereby creating a new signature for the AFDD and causing the device to trip.


With diagnostic software and the in-situ software upgrades, our AFDD solution can intelligently modify the algorithm to accommodate new product signatures as and when required. These updates can be sent directly to mobile devices via the Hager Pilot app (for Apple and Android), allowing connection to the AFDD through Bluetooth technology to perform a software upgrade remotely.


The ability to upgrade AFDD software in this way is a game changer for the industry. It uniquely eliminates the need to physically remove the device from the board, minimises disruption and allows, for example, for quick and efficient resolutions to ‘unwanted tripping’ which can be inconvenient and time consuming to resolve.

As the reality of the Amendment 2 changes sets in, housebuilders need to be mindful of both  mandated and recommended arc fault detection requirements. With our new, easy to fit, diagnose and upgrade AFDD with ProTools, housebuilders are supported in meeting the important regulation changes.