Federal Pacific Panel: What Homeowners in Rhode Island Need to Know | B&K Electric

Federal Pacific Panel

Are you a homeowner based in the zip code 02908 in Elmhurst, Providence County, Rhode Island? If so, you may be familiar with the name Federal Pacific panel. This may be due to the fact that many homes in this area were built between the 1950s and 1980s, during which time this brand of electrical panels was popular and widely installed in homes across the United States.

But what exactly is a Federal Pacific panel and why is there so much controversy surrounding it? In this article, we will take a look at what homeowners in Rhode Island need to know about this type of electrical panel, as well as the importance of regular panel maintenance and installation by a licensed electrician.

Understanding Federal Pacific panels

A Federal Pacific panel, or FPE panel, is an electrical panel installed in homes to distribute electricity throughout the house. It is also commonly referred to as a circuit breaker box or a breaker panel. The company behind these panels, Federal Pacific Electric, was a leading manufacturer of electrical equipment in the United States from the 1940s to the 1980s.

So, what makes these panels controversial? In the 1980s, it was discovered that these panels had a high rate of failure, meaning they were not effectively tripping during a power overload. This posed a serious safety threat as it could lead to electrical fires and damage to appliances. As a result, many insurance companies started refusing to insure homes with FPE panels. In 1983, the company was ordered to stop production and installation of these panels, and they eventually went out of business.

Why should you be concerned?

If you own a home with an FPE panel, you may be wondering if it is a cause for concern. The answer is yes. Not only do these panels pose a safety risk due to their high failure rate, but they also do not comply with current electrical codes. This can make it difficult to sell your home in the future if it still has an FPE panel.

You may be thinking that since your home has not experienced any issues yet, you can continue using the panel. However, just because it hasn’t failed yet doesn’t mean it won’t in the future. The reality is, these panels were faulty from the start and their failure rate only increases with time. This means that even if your FPE panel has been functioning properly so far, it is only a matter of time before it fails and causes serious electrical problems.

Benefits of regular panel maintenance

The best way to avoid potential disasters caused by a Federal Pacific panel is to have it regularly inspected and maintained by a licensed electrician. B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, specializes in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. Our team of experienced electricians has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years.

Having your panel regularly maintained not only ensures your safety and the safety of your home, but it can also save you money in the long run. A well-maintained panel is more efficient and can help reduce your energy bills. It can also extend the lifespan of your appliances by ensuring they receive the correct amount of electricity and preventing them from being damaged by power surges.

Choosing the right electrician for panel maintenance

When it comes to something as important as your home’s electrical panel, it is crucial to choose the right electrician for the job. B&K Electric has a team of highly qualified and licensed electricians who are well-equipped to handle any panel maintenance or installation needs. Our focus on community and customer service has earned us a reputation for excellence in the Warwick area and greater Providence area.

We understand that it can be overwhelming to figure out what needs to be done when it comes to your home’s electrical panel. That’s why our team takes the time to educate and inform our clients, so they understand the importance of regular maintenance and can make informed decisions for their home.

To summarize

If you are a homeowner in the Rhode Island area, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with a Federal Pacific panel. Don’t wait for a failure to occur before taking action. Have your panel regularly maintained by a licensed electrician to ensure the safety of your home, your family, and your finances. Contact B&K Electric today for all your panel maintenance and installation needs.

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