Important Facts for RI Homeowners: Federal Pacific Electric Panels

Federal Pacific Electric Panels

If you’re a homeowner in North Providence, Rhode Island, chances are you’ve heard of Federal Pacific Electric Panels at some point. Whether you’re considering buying a home in the area or have just moved into one, it’s important to understand what these panels are, why they’ve become a topic of concern, and what you can do to ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.

Here at B&K Electric, we’ve been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We’re a family-owned and operated electrical business that takes pride in providing top-notch service to our community. As licensed electricians, panel maintenance and installation are just some of the services we specialize in. So, let us be your go-to electricians for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

But before we dive into the details, let’s start with the basics.

What are Federal Pacific Electric Panels?

Simply put, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Panels were popular circuit breaker panels used in residential homes from the 1950s to the 1980s. These panels were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company and were installed in millions of homes across the United States during this time period.

What made FPE Panels so popular was their affordability and ease of installation. However, it was later discovered that these panels had major flaws that posed serious safety risks.

What are the Concerns?

Electrical safety is a crucial aspect of keeping your home and family safe. And when it comes to FPE Panels, safety concerns cannot be ignored.

Numerous studies and investigations have shown that FPE Panels have a higher likelihood of failing to trip in the event of a short circuit or overloaded circuit. This means that in the case of a sudden surge of electricity, these panels may not be able to shut off the power, resulting in potential electrical fires and hazards.

Furthermore, FPE Panels have been found to have issues with corrosion, loose connections, and faulty components, which can ultimately lead to the panel malfunctioning or becoming a fire hazard.

In today’s world, where home appliances and devices are consuming more electricity than ever before, it is essential to have a reliable and efficient electrical system. And FPE Panels simply don’t meet that standard.

What Can You Do?

If you’re a homeowner in the process of buying a new home or have just moved into one with an FPE Panel, it’s important to take swift action to address this issue and ensure the safety of your home and family.

The first step is to have a licensed and experienced electrician conduct a thorough inspection of your electrical system. They will be able to evaluate the condition of your panel and determine if it is a Federal Pacific Electric Panel or not. If it is, they will recommend replacing the panel to avoid any potential hazards.

At B&K Electric, our team of qualified electricians will not only conduct a thorough inspection but also provide you with a detailed report on the condition of your panel and the necessary steps to ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.

It is crucial to note that replacing an FPE Panel is not a DIY project and should only be carried out by a licensed electrician. This is because proper installation is key to the functionality and safety of your electrical system.

Invest in Your Safety

As a homeowner, ensuring the safety of your family should always be a top priority. And when it comes to Federal Pacific Electric Panels, it’s not a risk worth taking.

Don’t wait for potential hazards to arise before addressing the issue. Be proactive and take the necessary steps to replace your FPE Panel. Trust us, it will give you peace of mind and protect your home from any potential electrical hazards.

At B&K Electric, we understand that replacing an electrical panel may seem like a daunting and expensive task. But when it comes to the safety and well-being of your family, it’s truly an investment worth making.

So, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation and let us help you create a safer and more efficient electrical system for your home.

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