Endless Debate on Federal Pacific Circuit Panels

Federal Pacific Breaker Panel

At B&K Electric, we believe that knowledge is power when it comes to making informed decisions about your home’s electrical system. This is why we want to provide you with all the information you need to know about Federal Pacific breaker panels, their history, and the potential risks they may pose in your home. Being proactive about your electrical system’s safety can save you time, money, and potential hazards in the long run.

Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of electrical equipment from the 1950s to the 1980s. At their peak, they were the fourth-largest manufacturer of electrical panels in the United States. The company was based in Newark, New Jersey, and their primary product was the Stab-Lok brand of circuit breakers. These circuit breakers were commonly used in residential homes throughout the country, including North Providence, Rhode Island.

However, in the 1980s, serious concerns were raised about the safety of Federal Pacific Stab-Lok circuit breakers. It was discovered that these breakers had a tendency to fail to trip, causing them to remain in the on position even when a circuit was overloaded. This posed a serious fire hazard for homes with these panels installed. In fact, studies have shown that FPE breakers fail to trip in 70 percent of cases where the circuit is overloaded, a significantly higher rate than other brands of circuit breakers.

Despite these concerns, Federal Pacific Electric Company continued to insist that their circuit breakers were safe. They even took legal action against the researchers and companies that published these findings. However, by 2002, FPE was out of business, and their reputation was severely damaged due to the controversy surrounding their circuit breakers.

So, what does this mean for homeowners with Federal Pacific breaker panels? The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has not issued an official recall of these circuit breakers, as they understand that replacing them can be a costly endeavor for homeowners. However, they have stated that circuit breakers from FPE should be replaced, especially in homes built between the 1950s and 1980s. Some experts even recommend replacing these breakers as a precautionary measure, even if your home has never experienced any issues with them.

At B&K Electric, we have seen firsthand the dangers posed by Federal Pacific breaker panels. We have assisted many homeowners in North Providence and the surrounding areas with replacing these panels to ensure their safety. Our team is well-versed in the current safety standards and regulations for electrical panels, and we can help you choose a reliable and safe alternative to your old FPE panel.

Replacing a Federal Pacific breaker panel requires the knowledge and expertise of a licensed electrician. This is not a DIY project and should not be attempted by homeowners. B&K Electric has a team of highly trained and experienced electricians who are ready to assist you with all aspects of panel replacement, from selecting a new panel to proper installation and testing for safety.

It’s also important to note that in addition to the safety concerns associated with Federal Pacific breaker panels, these panels are also considered outdated by today’s standards. The electrical demands of modern homes have increased significantly since the 1950s, and many FPE panels may not be equipped to handle these demands. This can lead to frequent electrical overloads, tripped circuits, and potential damage to your electrical devices.

If you are a homeowner in North Providence with a Federal Pacific breaker panel in your home, it’s crucial to consider replacing it as a proactive safety measure. Our team at B&K Electric is here to provide you with expert advice and assistance every step of the way. We also offer electrical repair and maintenance services to ensure the ongoing safety and functionality of your electrical system. Don’t take chances with your home’s electrical system – trust the experts at B&K Electric to keep your home and your family safe.

Topics:

Federal Pacific breaker panels,

electrical safety,

electrical panel replacement.