Replacing Federal Pacific Panel Ensures Safety, Reliability

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement

The electrical panel, also known as the service panel, is considered the heart of a home’s electrical system. It is responsible for distributing electricity from the main power source to various outlets and appliances throughout the house. As homeowners, we often take for granted the important role that the electrical panel plays in our daily lives – until something goes wrong.

We heavily rely on electricity for our daily activities, from making morning coffee to powering our computers for work. Yet, we seldom stop to think about the safety and reliability of our electrical panel. This is especially true for homeowners in zip code 02909, Providence, Rhode Island, where the need for a trustworthy and qualified electrician is crucial.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, we understand the importance of a well-functioning electrical panel. We have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. Our team of licensed electricians specializes in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. As residents of the Warwick area and the greater Providence area, we strive to be your go-to electrician for all your residential and business electrical needs.

One common issue that we come across during our years of service is the need for federal pacific panel replacement. This article will dive into the details of federal pacific panels, the dangers associated with them, and why it is crucial for homeowners to consider a replacement.

What are Federal Pacific Panels?

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels were widely used in residential homes during the 1950s and 1980s. The company claimed that their panels were innovative and cost-effective, making it a popular choice for homebuilders. However, over time, it was discovered that these panels had major flaws that put homeowners at risk.

FPE panels are known for their Stab-Lok breakers, which are responsible for shutting off the power in case of an electrical overload or short circuit. These breakers were meant to protect the homes from electrical fires, but unfortunately, they did not perform as advertised.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Panels

Experts estimate that FPE panels are responsible for over 2,800 electrical fires annually, causing significant property damage and posing a threat to homeowners’ safety. This alarming statistic is mainly due to the malfunctioning Stab-Lok breakers. The breakers often fail to trip or shut off when they are supposed to, leading to overloading and fires.

Furthermore, FPE panels have been found to have faulty connections and loose connections between the circuit breakers and the bus bar. These loose connections can cause overheating and potentially spark a fire.

In addition to the direct hazards of FPE panels, homeowners may also face difficulty in obtaining homeowner’s insurance or selling their home if it has a federal pacific panel. Insurance companies have become more aware of the dangers associated with FPE panels and may either refuse to insure a home or charge higher premiums.

Why You Need to Consider a Replacement

As homeowners, the safety and well-being of our families should be a top priority. An old, outdated, and potentially dangerous federal pacific panel puts your home and loved ones at risk. It is crucial to consider a replacement if your home still has an FPE panel.

Replacement of an FPE panel with a newer, safer panel is a complex and intricate process that requires the expertise of a licensed electrician. At B&K Electric, we follow all necessary safety codes and standards to ensure a smooth and secure replacement process. Our team will also conduct a thorough inspection of your electrical system to identify and fix any other underlying issues.

Moreover, replacing an FPE panel will not only provide better safety and peace of mind, but it will also increase your home’s value. Potential buyers are likely to be more interested in a home that does not have an outdated and potentially hazardous electrical panel.

Final Thoughts

Homeowners in zip code 02909 and the greater Providence area should consider federal pacific panel replacement to ensure their family’s safety and their home’s reliability. The team at B&K Electric is committed to providing high-quality services and ensuring our clients’ satisfaction. With over seventeen years of experience in the electrical industry, we have the expertise and knowledge to handle any electrical issue, big or small.

Don’t put your home and loved ones at risk. Contact B&K Electric today to schedule a consultation and ensure the safety of your electrical panel.

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