Federal Pacific Panel: The Hidden Danger in Your Home

Federal Pacific Panel

As a homeowner in the 02908 zip code of Elmhurst Providence County, Rhode Island, it’s important to ensure that your home is safe and up to code. One potential danger that many homeowners may not be aware of is the Federal Pacific Panel.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business in Warwick, RI, we are passionate about educating our community about the potential hazards of outdated electrical systems. With over seventeen years of experience serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island, we have seen firsthand the dangers of Federal Pacific Panels and the importance of addressing them.

In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Federal Pacific Panels, their potential dangers, and why it’s crucial to have them replaced by a licensed electrician. Whether you’re considering buying a home in the Warwick area or simply want to ensure the safety of your current residence, this article will provide you with valuable information to keep in mind.

The History of Federal Pacific Panels

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE), a popular manufacturer of electrical components, produced millions of circuit breaker panels that were installed in homes throughout the United States. These panels were seen as a cheaper alternative to competitors, making them a popular choice among homebuilders.

However, by the 1980s, reports of faulty circuit breakers began to surface. It was discovered that FPE had falsified test results and certification documents, leading to a recall of their breakers. Despite this recall, FPE continued to produce panels until they went bankrupt in 1989. Today, many homes in the United States still have these outdated and potentially hazardous panels.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Panels

So, what makes Federal Pacific Panels so dangerous? The main issue lies in the breakers themselves. When a circuit is overloaded, the breaker is supposed to trip and shut off the power to that specific area of the home. However, in FPE panels, the breakers have a high failure rate, meaning that they often don’t trip when necessary.

This can lead to overheating, sparks, and even electrical fires. In fact, a study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission found that FPE panels had a failure rate of up to 63%, compared to an industry standard of less than 10%. This means that if you have an FPE panel in your home, you are at a higher risk for an electrical fire.

Aside from the potential fire hazard, FPE panels also often fail to comply with current electrical codes and standards. Homes with these panels may not be up to code, making it difficult to sell or insure the property. In addition, these panels are often unable to handle the electrical demands of modern homes, creating a potential safety hazard for the residents.

Why You Should Replace Your Federal Pacific Panel

If you’re a homeowner with a Federal Pacific Panel, you may be wondering what your options are. The most important thing to keep in mind is that only a licensed electrician should replace these panels. Attempting to do it yourself or hiring a handyman can put you and your home at risk.

At B&K Electric, our experienced electricians are trained to identify and replace Federal Pacific Panels safely and efficiently. Our team will also ensure that your new panel meets current electrical codes and can handle the electrical needs of your home.

Replacing your Federal Pacific Panel not only protects your home and family, but it also increases the value of your property. As mentioned before, having an outdated panel can make it difficult to sell or insure your home, so it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible.

In addition, replacing your panel can save you money in the long run. With a safer and more efficient panel, you may see a decrease in your energy bills. And with a lower risk of electrical fires, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe.

Finding a Licensed Electrician in Warwick, RI

If you’re in the Warwick, RI area and need to have your Federal Pacific Panel replaced, look no further than B&K Electric. We are a family-owned and operated business that is dedicated to providing top-quality service to our community. Our highly trained and experienced electricians will ensure that your home is safe and up to code.

It’s easy to overlook potential dangers in our homes. However, as a homeowner, it’s crucial to stay educated and informed about potential hazards such as Federal Pacific Panels. Don’t wait until it’s too late, contact us at B&K Electric today to schedule a panel replacement and ensure the safety of your home.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panel,

electrical codes,

electrical safety