Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed of a welding-type system that includes a welding-type power source configured to generate output power for an arc welding process. A bi-directional wire feeder advances or retracts an electrode wire to or from a workpiece. One or more sensors measure one or more welding process parameters. And a switch is provided to open an alternative current path for arc current between an electrode wire and a workpiece. For example, the switch is to close to redirect all or part of the arc current through the alternative current path in response to one or more welding process parameters exceeding a first threshold value corresponding to a short clearance event.