Pitfalls of Federal Pacific Electric Panels: Homeowners Beware

Federal Pacific Electric Panel

Are you a homeowner in the East Providence, Rhode Island area (Zip Code: 02906) looking for a trusted and reliable electrician? Look no further than B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated business based in nearby Warwick. With over seventeen years of experience, B&K Electric has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island. Our services range from electrical repair to panel maintenance and installation, making us your go-to for any electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

As a responsible homeowner, you may have heard the term Federal Pacific Electric Panel and may be wondering what it means and why it is important to know about it. In simple terms, a Federal Pacific Electric Panel (FPE) is a type of electrical panel that was commonly used in homes built between the 1950s and 1980s. While these panels were once considered safe and reliable, they have since been found to have numerous defects that pose a potential danger to homeowners.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the Federal Pacific Electric Panel, the potential dangers associated with it, and the necessary steps that homeowners should take to ensure their safety.

What is a Federal Pacific Electric Panel?

A Federal Pacific Electric Panel, also known as FPE, was a widely used brand of electrical panels in the United States. They were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company from the 1950s to the 1980s. These panels were popular due to their low cost and ease of installation, and were installed in millions of homes across the country, including in East Providence, Rhode Island.

Potential Dangers of a Federal Pacific Electric Panel

While FPE panels were once deemed safe and reliable, numerous reports and studies have since revealed the potential dangers associated with them. One of the main concerns is their faulty design, which can lead to electrical malfunctions and potential house fires. In fact, FPE panels have been linked to several electrical fires in homes, causing injury, property damage, and even death.

The main issue with FPE panels lies in their circuit breakers, which are designed to trip and stop the flow of electricity when the system is overloaded. However, tests have shown that FPE breakers often fail to trip when they should, leaving homeowners at risk of electrical fires. This is due to the poor connection between the breakers and the panel, causing them to overheat and potentially cause a fire.

Another concern with FPE panels is their use of aluminum bus bars instead of copper. Aluminum is a cheaper alternative to copper, but it is not as efficient at conducting electricity. This can lead to overheating and melting, potentially causing a fire.

Steps for Homeowners to Ensure Safety

If your home in East Providence, Rhode Island was built between the 1950s and 1980s, there is a high possibility that it may have an FPE panel. As a homeowner, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and the safety of your family and property.

The first step is to have your FPE panel inspected by a licensed electrician. While it may be tempting to try and fix any issues yourself, it is crucial to hire a professional to properly assess and handle any potential hazards. At B&K Electric, our team of experienced electricians can conduct a thorough inspection of your panel and provide recommendations on the necessary repairs or replacements.

If it is determined that your FPE panel needs to be replaced, it is important to choose a licensed electrician who is experienced in handling FPE panel replacements. It is not a simple task and requires specialized knowledge and expertise to ensure a safe and proper installation. At B&K Electric, we have years of experience in panel replacements and installations, and we guarantee quality workmanship that meets all safety standards.

It is also recommended to have your home’s electrical system inspected regularly, even if you do not have an FPE panel. A licensed electrician can identify any potential issues and address them before they become a safety hazard.

In summary

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of your home and your family. While Federal Pacific Electric Panels were once considered safe and reliable, they have since been found to have numerous defects that pose a potential danger. If your home in East Providence, Rhode Island was built between the 1950s and 1980s, it is crucial to have your FPE panel inspected by a licensed electrician and to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety.

B&K Electric is dedicated to serving the residents of Rhode Island with top-quality electrical services. From repairs to panel maintenance and installations, we are your go-to for all your electrical needs. Trust us to keep your home and your family safe. Call us today for a consultation and inspection.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Electric Panel,

Electrical Panel Inspection,

Panel Replacement