Upgrading FPCB Panel in East Providence

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

As homeowners, we often overlook the importance of our electrical systems and tend to focus on other home improvement projects. After all, it’s out of sight and out of mind until something goes wrong. However, it’s essential to stay on top of these overlooked areas to ensure the safety and functionality of our homes. And when it comes to electrical systems, one critical component that often gets neglected is the circuit breaker panel.

For homeowners in East Providence, Rhode Island, the circuit breaker panel is a vital aspect of your home’s electrical system, and an outdated or faulty one can pose serious risks. This is where B&K Electric comes in. As a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI, we specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us your go-to electrician for your home or business in the Warwick area and greater Providence area. With over seventeen years of experience, we know the ins and outs of electrical systems and have seen firsthand the dangers of outdated circuit breaker panels, particularly those manufactured by Federal Pacific.

So, what exactly is a Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel, and why is it crucial to upgrade? Let’s dive into the topic and explore why homeowners in East Providence need to prioritize this upgrade.

Understanding Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels

In the United States, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a prominent manufacturer of electrical panels from the 1950s to the 1980s. These panels were widely used in residential homes due to their affordable price and ease of installation. However, over time, it became apparent that these panels posed significant safety hazards, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) launched an investigation into their safety.

The findings were alarming. The CPSC discovered that FPE panels had a high tendency to fail, resulting in circuit breakers failing to trip when overloading or short-circuiting occurred. This meant that the circuit would continue to carry a heavy load of electrical current, leading to fires, electrical shocks, and even electrocution. In fact, it was found that FPE panels were responsible for a significant number of electrical fires in homes.

Additionally, FPE panels had other design flaws, such as the inability to handle the constant flow of electricity, leading to overheating, and in some cases, melting of the panel’s bus bars. This posed a severe risk to homeowners as these issues were not easily detectable, and it was impossible to know when a panel would fail.

Why Upgrade Your Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel?

As a homeowner in East Providence, it’s crucial to have a reliable and safe electrical system in place. This means staying updated with the latest regulations and technologies and ensuring your home is equipped to handle your power needs. A Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel is definitely not up to par with current safety standards, making it a significant safety hazard that needs to be addressed.

One of the main reasons for upgrading is safety. As discussed earlier, FPE panels have been found to have a high failure rate, leading to electrical fires and shocks. These hazards can be life-threatening, and no homeowner should take them lightly.

Moreover, when it comes to selling your home, having a Federal Pacific panel can significantly decrease your property’s value and even make it difficult to sell. Most home inspectors will identify an FPE panel as a significant issue, and potential buyers may ask for it to be replaced before closing the deal. This can lead to unexpected expenses and may delay the sale of your home.

The Benefits of Upgrading Your Circuit Breaker Panel

Upgrading your Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel to a new, reliable one offers several benefits that you won’t want to ignore.

1. Improved Safety: First and foremost, upgrading your panel ensures the safety of your home and family. With advanced technologies and more stringent safety regulations, modern panels are designed to handle heavy loads and prevent electrical failures, providing peace of mind for homeowners.

2. Greater Energy Efficiency: With an outdated panel, you may be experiencing a higher energy bill each month. This could be due to outdated technology, and a new, efficient panel can help lower your energy consumption and ultimately save you money in the long run.

3. Avoid Future Expenses: It’s always better to be proactive than reactive. By upgrading your FPE panel now, you can avoid future expenses that may arise from faulty electrical systems, such as the cost of repairs, replacements, or even potential fire damage.

4. Increased Property Value: When it comes time to sell your home, having a modern and safe circuit breaker panel can increase your property’s value and make it a more attractive option for potential buyers.

5. Compliance with Current Electrical Codes: Staying in compliance with current electrical codes is a must for ensuring the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. With an outdated FPE panel, you risk failing an electrical inspection, which can result in costly penalties and delay the sale of your home.

Upgrade Your Panel with B&K Electric

If you are a homeowner in East Providence with a Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel, it’s time to take action and prioritize the upgrade to a new, safer panel. At B&K Electric, we understand the importance of electrical safety, and our team of licensed electricians is experienced in handling panel replacements and installations.

From a thorough evaluation of your current panel to the installation of a new, modern one, we ensure to provide efficient and reliable services to protect your home and family. Don’t wait until it’s too late; upgrade your panel today and experience the benefits of a safe and functional electrical system.

Topics:

Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel,

electrical safety,

home improvement.