Replacing Circuit Breakers for Home Safety

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Replacement

As a homeowner in North Providence, Rhode Island, you take great pride in maintaining your property and ensuring that it is a safe and comfortable environment for you and your family. You have put in countless hours of hard work and invested a significant amount of money to create the perfect home. However, there may be a hidden danger lurking within your walls that you may not be aware of – a Federal Pacific circuit breaker.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, we understand the importance of keeping your home safe and up to code. With over seventeen years of experience, our highly trained and licensed electricians have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island. We specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us the go-to electrician for homeowners in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

We rely heavily on electricity to power our homes, from our appliances and electronics to our lighting and heating systems. It is no wonder that our electrical panels are one of the most crucial components of our home’s electrical system. They are the source of electricity, distributing power to different circuits throughout the house. And when it comes to the safety of your home and family, it is essential to ensure that your electrical panel is functioning properly and is up to date.

The Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Problem

In the 1950s and 1960s, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was one of the leading manufacturers of electrical panels in the United States. Millions of homes were built with FPE electrical panels, including many in North Providence, Rhode Island, and across the country. However, in the 1980s, research and testing revealed that FPE circuit breakers were defective and had a high failure rate, which could lead to electrical fires.

The issue with FPE circuit breakers lies in their design. They were made with cheaper materials and did not undergo proper testing, resulting in a lack of reliability. In fact, it was found that FPE circuit breakers often failed to trip during an overload or short circuit, causing the electrical panel to overheat and potentially catch fire. This defect has led to numerous electrical fires and property damage, putting countless homes and families at risk.

Replacement is Key to Safety

If your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s, there is a good chance that it has an FPE electrical panel. As a homeowner, it is crucial to have your panel inspected by a licensed electrician to determine if it is an FPE panel. If it is, the best course of action is to have it replaced immediately to ensure the safety of your home and family.

At B&K Electric, our team of licensed electricians has the expertise and experience to properly inspect and replace your FPE electrical panel with a newer, safer model. We understand the complexities of the electrical system and take all necessary precautions to ensure the job is done safely and efficiently. Our goal is to provide our clients with peace of mind, knowing that their home is free from the hazard of an FPE electrical panel.

The Risks of Delaying Replacement

Replacing an FPE circuit breaker is not something that can be put off or postponed. The consequences of delaying this critical replacement can be severe. As mentioned earlier, FPE circuit breakers have a significantly higher failure rate, which can lead to electrical hazards and fires. These fires can spread quickly and cause extensive damage to your home and put your family’s safety at risk.

Furthermore, delaying replacement can also pose challenges when it comes to selling your home. With the increasing awareness and knowledge of the dangers of FPE circuit breakers, potential buyers may shy away from purchasing a home with an FPE panel, which can significantly decrease the value of your property.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

Besides the obvious safety reasons, there are also several benefits to upgrading your FPE electrical panel. First and foremost, a new panel will be more reliable and efficient, ensuring that your home is powered with minimal interruptions. This is especially crucial for homes that rely on electricity for medical equipment or have high-power consumption.

Secondly, a new electrical panel can also increase the value of your home. With an updated panel, potential buyers will have more confidence in the safety and condition of the property, ultimately leading to a higher resale value. Additionally, many insurance companies now require homeowners to have an updated electrical panel to obtain coverage or provide discounts on premiums.

Final Thoughts

As a homeowner in North Providence, Rhode Island, it is essential to be proactive in maintaining the safety of your home. As part of this, having a licensed electrician inspect and replace your FPE electrical panel is crucial. With B&K Electric, you can put your mind at ease knowing that your home and family are in the hands of experienced and professional electricians.

Don’t delay – contact B&K Electric today to schedule a panel inspection and replacement. Our team is dedicated to providing top-quality electrical services to ensure the safety and comfort of your home. Trust us to be your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Replacement,

Safety,

Electrical Panel