Important Info for Providence Homeowners: Electrical Panel Safety

Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

As a homeowner in Providence, Rhode Island (zip code 02909), you know the importance of maintaining and updating your home. From regular maintenance to renovations and upgrades, you understand that investing in your property is vital to ensuring its safety, functionality, and value. And one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the electrical panel.

An electrical panel, also known as a circuit breaker, is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It’s responsible for distributing power to all the outlets and appliances in your home. When it works properly, it keeps your home running smoothly. However, if it’s outdated or poorly designed, it can pose a significant safety risk to your property and your family. That’s why it’s essential to have a reliable and qualified electrician, like B&K Electric, to maintain and upgrade your electrical panel.

B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, Rhode Island. Established over seventeen years ago, our company takes pride in providing exceptional services to homeowners in Cranston, Warwick, and the greater Providence area. Our experienced electricians specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us the go-to experts for all your electrical needs.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels

You may be wondering why we specifically mention Federal Pacific electrical panels. Well, the answer is simple: they are notorious for being a safety hazard. In the 1950s and 1960s, Federal Pacific Electric Company was one of the leading manufacturers of circuit breaker panels. They were installed in millions of homes across the United States, including many in Providence, Rhode Island.

However, in the 1980s, it was discovered that these panels were defectively designed and failed to protect homes from dangerous electrical faults. The breakers would often fail to trip when overloaded, causing them to overheat and potentially spark a fire. It’s estimated that these panels have caused thousands of electrical fires, resulting in numerous injuries and deaths.

Despite these findings, many of these panels are still in use today, putting homes and families at risk. So if your home was built or renovated between the 1950s and 1980s, it’s crucial to have your electrical panel inspected by a qualified electrician.

Signs That Your Federal Pacific Panel May Be Defective

If you’re unsure whether your home has a Federal Pacific electrical panel, there are some signs to look out for:

1. Flickering or dimming lights: If you notice your lights flickering or suddenly dimming, it could be a sign that your panel is struggling to handle the electrical load.

2. Hot breakers or buzzing sounds: If you touch the breakers in your panel and they feel hot to the touch, or if you hear buzzing or cracking sounds, it’s a sign of a faulty panel.

3. Tripped breakers and blown fuses: If your breakers trip frequently or your fuses blow often, it could be a sign that your panel is not functioning properly.

4. Overcrowded panel: Take a look at your electrical panel. Are there numerous wires and breakers crammed into the panel? If so, it’s a sign that your panel is not designed to handle the electrical demands of your home.

5. Burn marks or corrosion: If you notice any burn marks or corrosion on your panel, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong and needs to be addressed immediately.

What Should You Do If You Have a Federal Pacific Electrical Panel?

If you believe that you have a Federal Pacific electrical panel in your Providence home, the first thing you should do is have it inspected by a licensed and experienced electrician. They will be able to determine if your panel is defective and needs to be replaced.

At B&K Electric, our team has the expertise to assess your panel and provide you with a thorough report of its safety. If we find that you have a Federal Pacific panel, we will recommend replacing it with a modern, reliable, and safe panel that meets current electrical codes.

Replacing a Federal Pacific electrical panel requires the expertise of a trained professional. Attempting to do it yourself or hiring an unqualified individual can result in serious injury or damage to your property. So it’s crucial to hire a licensed and reputable electrician, like B&K Electric, to complete the job safely and efficiently.

We understand that a panel replacement can be a significant investment, but the safety of your home and family is priceless. Plus, it can also increase the value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment for both your safety and your home’s value.

Take Action for Your Safety

As a homeowner in Providence, Rhode Island, it’s essential to be proactive in protecting your home and family. You likely take numerous precautions, such as installing smoke detectors, having a security system, and having your HVAC system regularly serviced. Your electrical panel should also be a top priority on that list.

Don’t wait for a disaster to occur. Take action now and have your Federal Pacific electrical panel inspected by a qualified electrician. With B&K Electric, you can trust that you’re in capable and knowledgeable hands. We take pride in providing exceptional customer service and ensuring the safety of our clients’ homes.

Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

Federal Pacific Electrical Panel,

Electrical Repair,

Electrical Panel Maintenance