Replacing Your Federal Pacific Breaker Panel Safely

Federal Pacific Breaker Panel

As a home owner in the zip code 02906 in East Providence, Rhode Island, the safety and maintenance of your home is likely at the forefront of your mind. One important component of your home’s electrical system is the breaker panel, which is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your home and protecting it from overloads and electrical fires. However, not all breaker panels are created equal and there are some that pose significant risks to your home and family. In this article, we will be discussing the Federal Pacific breaker panel, its potential dangers, and why it is crucial to have a professional electrician, such as B&K Electric, replace it with a safer and more reliable option.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Breaker Panels and the Importance of Professional Replacement

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of breaker panels from the 1950s to the 1980s, with millions of homes across the United States built with their panels. However, it was later discovered that these panels had a high potential for failure and posed a serious fire hazard. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission found that FPE breakers failed to trip at a significantly higher rate than other brands, meaning they did not cut off the flow of electricity when they were supposed to, causing potential overloads and fires.

One of the major reasons for this failure rate was due to a design flaw in the breakers that caused them to malfunction when overheated. The FPE panels were also found to have poor connections, which could cause arcing and sparking, leading to fires. These issues were further compounded by the fact that FPE went bankrupt in 1980, leaving no funding for recalls or repairs.

As a result, Federal Pacific breaker panels have been deemed unsafe by the National Electric Code (NEC) and the panels are no longer manufactured. However, it is estimated that there are still millions of homes in the United States that have these outdated and dangerous panels installed, putting both the homes and their inhabitants at risk.

So, as a home owner in the East Providence area, how do you know if your home has a Federal Pacific breaker panel and what signs should you be on the lookout for? There are several tell-tale signs that can indicate the presence of a Federal Pacific breaker panel in your home. One common indicator is the presence of the FPE logo on the panel itself, which can usually be found on the inside panel door or even on the breakers themselves. Another potential sign is if your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s, when FPE panels were most popular.

In addition, you may also notice signs of overheating on your panel, such as burn marks or melting plastic. Another warning sign is frequent tripping of breakers, which could mean they are failing to trip properly and doing their job to protect your home from overloads. If you observe any of these signs in your home, it is important to take immediate action to replace your Federal Pacific breaker panel with a safer and more reliable option.

Replacing a breaker panel should never be done as a DIY project. It requires specialized knowledge and expertise to ensure that the job is done safely and efficiently. This is where a professional electrician, like B&K Electric, comes in. Our team of licensed and experienced electricians have been servicing the East Providence and surrounding areas for over seventeen years. Our commitment to community and customer service makes us a trusted choice for all your electrical needs.

When it comes to replacing your Federal Pacific breaker panel, it is not as simple as just swapping out one panel for another. There are many considerations that need to be made, such as determining the right size and type of panel for your home’s electrical needs. A professional electrician will also ensure that the panel is installed correctly, with proper grounding and wiring, to prevent any future issues or potential dangers.

Moreover, a licensed electrician will also obtain any necessary permits and have the work inspected by local authorities to ensure it meets all safety standards and code regulations. This not only guarantees a safer home for you and your family but also gives peace of mind knowing that the work was done correctly and up to code.

If your home in the East Providence or greater Providence area has a Federal Pacific breaker panel, it is crucial that you have it replaced by a professional electrician. The risks and potential dangers associated with these panels are not worth taking a chance on. As a family-owned and operated business, B&K Electric takes pride in serving the residential community and providing the highest quality electrical services. Trust us to replace your Federal Pacific breaker panel and keep your home and loved ones safe.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Breaker Panel,

Electrical Safety,

Professional Breaker Panel Replacement