Federal Electric Panel: The Backbone of Your Home’s Electrical System

Federal Electric Panel

Are you a homeowner in Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island (Zip Code 02910)? Have you been experiencing issues with your home’s electrical system lately? If so, you’re not alone. Electrical problems are common in homes, and one of the most integral components of your home’s electrical system is the Federal electric panel.

As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand the role of the electric panel and the importance of its proper maintenance and installation. B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation and are here to provide you with all the information you need about Federal electric panels.

What is a Federal Electric Panel?

Before we dive into the details of Federal electric panels, let’s start with the basics. An electric panel, also known as a “circuit breaker box” or “breaker box,” is the main distribution point for all electrical circuits in your home. It receives power from your utility provider and distributes it to the various outlets and appliances in your home.

A Federal electric panel is a type of electrical panel that is manufactured and labeled by the Federal Pacific Electric Company, which was in operation from the 1950s to the 1980s. These panels were widely used in residential properties during this time, and if you own a home built during this period, there’s a high chance that it contains a Federal electric panel.

Why Are Federal Electric Panels a Cause for Concern?

While Federal electric panels were commonly used in residential properties in the past, they have since been found to have several issues that make them a potential safety hazard. One of the main issues is that the breakers inside these panels often fail to trip during a power surge or overload, which can lead to electrical fires.

In a recent study conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, it was found that Federal Pacific electric panels were responsible for more than 28,000 fires and over 2000 serious injuries every year. This alarming statistic is cause for concern and highlights the importance of ensuring that your home is equipped with a safe and reliable electrical panel.

Signs That You May Have a Federal Electric Panel

If you are a homeowner in the Warwick or Providence areas and your home was built during the 1950s-1980s, it’s essential to determine if your home has a Federal electric panel. Here are a few signs that can indicate the presence of a Federal electric panel in your home:

1. Flickering Lights: If your lights flicker or dim whenever you turn on an appliance or plug in a device, it could be a sign of a faulty Federal electric panel.

2. Burning Smell: Any burning smell in your home, especially near your electrical panel, should be taken seriously and investigated by a professional, as it could be a sign of overheating.

3. Hot Outlets or Switches: If your outlets or switches are hot to the touch, it could mean that there’s an issue with your Federal electric panel.

4. Rusty or Corroded Panel: With time, metal panels can develop rust or corrode, which can indicate that it’s time for a panel upgrade.

5. Outdated Panel: If your home was built during the 1950s-1980s and you haven’t had your panel replaced or upgraded since, there’s a high chance that you have an outdated Federal electric panel.

The Importance of Proper Maintenance and Installation of a Federal Electric Panel

As mentioned earlier, Federal electric panels have been found to be a potential safety hazard, and this is mainly due to faulty installation, lack of proper maintenance, and outdated technology. That’s why it’s crucial to have a licensed electrician, like B&K Electric, perform regular maintenance checks on your panel and to upgrade to a newer and safer panel if necessary.

Proper installation of a Federal electric panel is also crucial to ensure the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. A licensed electrician will make sure that the panel is installed according to industry standards and that all the necessary safety measures, such as grounding and proper wiring, are in place.

Where we rely on electricity for almost everything, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a well-maintained and properly installed electric panel. However, as a homeowner, it’s essential to prioritize the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system to protect your family and property.

Last reflections

A Federal electric panel is the backbone of your home’s electrical system and is responsible for distributing power safely and efficiently. However, panels manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company have been found to have several safety issues, making proper maintenance and installation of this type of panel paramount. As a homeowner in Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island (Zip Code 02910), it’s crucial to ensure that your home is equipped with a safe and reliable electric panel. By hiring a licensed and experienced electrician like B&K Electric, you can rest assured that your home’s electrical system is in good hands.

Topics:

Federal Electric Panel,

Electrical Maintenance,

Electrical Safety