[villagetinker]

Let me provide some clarification. There is no cost difference between the original AFCI breakers installed and the replacements. There is a difference in the design. The original breakers, were good, the second generation had problems with radio transmitters, however this was NOT discovered until LOTS of them were installed. They continued to be installed until a suitable replacement AFCI breaker was designed and tested.
I just had mine replaced, and the newest generation LOOKS EXACTLY THE SAME as the ones that were replaced. This may be the cause of some of the confusion as you cannot look at the breakers and see if these are the affected design. The result is that these are being replaced on a complaint basis.
Hope this helps.