Providence Homeowners: Federal Pacific Panels Explained

Federal Pacific Panels

As homeowners, we often take for granted the intricate and complex electrical system that powers our homes. We rely on it for our daily activities, from cooking and cleaning to entertainment and communication. However, what many homeowners in Providence, Rhode Island may not realize is that their home’s electrical system could be hiding a potential danger in the form of a Federal Pacific Panel.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. In this guide, we will discuss what Federal Pacific Panels are, why they pose a threat to your home, and what you can do to ensure the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system.

What are Federal Pacific Panels?

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of electrical panels from the 1950s to 1980s. These panels were installed in millions of homes across the United States during this time, including many homes in the 02909 zip code of Providence, Rhode Island. However, numerous reports of these panels malfunctioning and causing electrical fires prompted an investigation by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the 1980s.

The investigation revealed that Federal Pacific Panels had a design flaw that could potentially result in the failure of the circuit breakers to trip, leaving your home and its occupants at risk of fire and electric shock. Despite these findings, Federal Pacific Electric went out of business in 1980 and the CPSC did not mandate a full recall of the panels.

Why do Federal Pacific Panels pose a threat?

The main issue with Federal Pacific Panels is their inability to properly trip breakers. In the event of an overload or short circuit, circuit breakers are designed to trip and cut off the flow of electricity, preventing potential fires and injuries. However, with Federal Pacific Panels, this mechanism may not work, leaving your home vulnerable to electrical malfunctions.

In a study conducted by the CPSC, it was found that 28% of the breakers in Federal Pacific Panels did not trip when overloaded, and 13% of the breakers did not trip when short-circuited. This means that your home may be at risk of electrical fires and accidents without your knowledge. Additionally, these panels were installed with aluminum wiring, which is known to be a fire hazard on its own.

What should homeowners in Providence, Rhode Island do?

If you are a homeowner in the 02909 zip code of Providence, Rhode Island, and you suspect that your home may have a Federal Pacific Panel, it is crucial to take immediate action. The first step is to have a licensed electrician, like B&K Electric, inspect your panel and determine if it is, in fact, a Federal Pacific Panel.

If your panel is confirmed to be a Federal Pacific Panel, it is highly recommended to replace it with a newer, safer panel. This will not only ensure the safety of your home and its occupants but also increase the value and marketability of your property.

However, it is important to note that replacing a Federal Pacific Panel is not a DIY project. It requires the expertise and knowledge of a licensed electrician to safely and properly install a new electrical panel. Attempting to replace the panel on your own could result in further hazards and costly damages.

Why choose B&K Electric for your electrical needs?

At B&K Electric, we understand the importance of a safe and reliable electrical system in your home. Our team of experienced and licensed electricians has the know-how and expertise to handle any electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation needs in Warwick and the greater Providence area.

As a family-owned and operated business, we prioritize customer service and go above and beyond to ensure the satisfaction and safety of our clients. With over seventeen years of experience, we have built a reputation for professionalism, quality workmanship, and fair pricing.

Don’t take any chances with the safety of your home and family. Choose B&K Electric as your go-to electrician for all your residential and commercial electrical needs in Providence, Rhode Island.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panels,

electrical panel safety,

licensed electrician