Federal Pacific Electric Panel – What You Need to Know

Federal Pacific Electric Panel

Located in zip code 02903 in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island, many homeowners may not be familiar with the term “Federal Pacific Electric Panel” or the potentially dangerous implications it can have on their homes. As a trusted electrical business serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over 17 years, B&K Electric is well-versed in the dangers associated with Federal Pacific Electric Panels, and we are dedicated to educating our community on this important issue.

At B&K Electric, we take pride in our family-owned and operated business that is deeply rooted in community and customer service. Our team of electricians is highly experienced and knowledgeable in all things electrical, with a specialization in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. As your go-to electrician in the Warwick area and greater Providence area, we are committed to keeping your home and business safe from potential hazards such as Federal Pacific Electric Panels.

But what exactly is a Federal Pacific Electric Panel? In short, it is an outdated and faulty electrical panel that was widely used in homes built between 1950 and 1980. These panels were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company and were installed in millions of homes during this time period. However, it was later discovered that these panels were not up to safety standards and posed significant risks to homeowners.

The main issue with Federal Pacific Electric Panels is their faulty circuit breakers. These breakers were designed to trip when the electrical current exceeds a safe level, preventing potential fires caused by overloaded circuits. However, it was discovered that the circuit breakers in Federal Pacific Electric Panels often failed to trip when they should, leaving the potential for electrical fires to occur.

This is a major concern for homeowners, as electrical fires are one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States. Furthermore, the risk of fire from a Federal Pacific Electric Panel increases significantly with age, as these panels were not designed to last for extended periods of time. As such, it is essential for homeowners to have their panels inspected and, if necessary, replaced by a licensed electrician.

Although the use of Federal Pacific Electric Panels was discontinued in the 1980s, there are still many homes in Rhode Island and across the country that continue to have these panels installed. This is due to the fact that these panels were promoted as a cost-effective solution for electricity distribution, and many homeowners are not aware of the potential dangers associated with them. Additionally, some homeowners may not be inclined to replace the panel if they have not experienced any issues so far. However, the risks associated with these panels are not worth taking, and it is important for homeowners to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of their homes and families.

One may wonder why these faulty panels were ever allowed to be installed in homes in the first place. The answer lies in a major controversy surrounding the Federal Pacific Electric Company and their lack of adherence to safety standards. In the 1970s, an independent investigator discovered that these panels failed to meet Underwriters Laboratories (UL) safety standards, which are the guidelines used for testing electrical equipment. However, the company continued to sell and install the panels, claiming that they met safety standards.

The controversy surrounding Federal Pacific Electric Panels continues today, as many homeowners have faced significant challenges when trying to prove that these panels are a safety hazard. This is due to the lack of evidence that directly links these panels to house fires. However, countless tests and inspections have shown that the circuit breakers in these panels are not reliable, leaving them vulnerable to malfunction and potentially hazardous situations.

So, what can homeowners in zip code 02903 and beyond do to ensure their homes are safe from the dangers of Federal Pacific Electric Panels? The answer is simple – contact a licensed electrician for a thorough inspection of your panel. B&K Electric is highly experienced in identifying these panels and determining if they pose a risk to your home. If necessary, we can also replace your panel with a newer, safer option to give you peace of mind and protect your home from potential fire hazards.

As a homeowner, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of your family and your property. The dangers associated with Federal Pacific Electric Panels are not to be taken lightly, and it is important to take action to protect yourself and your loved ones. At B&K Electric, we are dedicated to providing our community with trustworthy and reliable electrical services. Contact us today to schedule a panel inspection and ensure the safety of your home for years to come.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Electric Panel,

Electrical Safety,

Home Hazards