Replacing Breakers: Safe Electrical Systems for RI Homes

Federal Pacific Breaker Replacement

As a homeowner in the zip code 02904 of North Providence, Rhode Island, you understand the importance of maintaining a safe and efficient electrical system for your residence. But what if your home was built before the year 1990? There is a high possibility that your electrical panel still contains outdated and potentially hazardous Federal Pacific (FP) breakers. These breakers have been found to have serious safety issues, leading to increased risks of electrical fires. This is why it is crucial for homeowners in the North Providence and surrounding areas to consider the replacement of their FP breakers.

At B&K Electric, we are a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI, rooted in community and customer service. Our team of experienced and licensed electricians has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in a range of electrical services including but not limited to repair, panel maintenance, and installation. Make us your go-to electrician for your home or business in the Warwick area and the greater Providence Area, especially when it comes to replacing your FP breakers.

In this article, we will delve into the reasons why Federal Pacific breaker replacement is necessary for the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. We will also discuss the importance of hiring a licensed electrician for this task and provide insights on what to expect during the replacement process. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the significance of replacing your FP breakers and how it can benefit your home.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Breakers

In the 1950s and 1960s, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was one of the leading manufacturers of electrical panels and breakers in the United States. They were widely used in residential areas due to their affordability and popularity. However, in 1982, an investigative report by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) found that FP breakers had serious safety concerns. It was discovered that these breakers failed to trip in the event of an overload or short circuit, leading to potential electrical fires. This report raised alarms about the safety of FP breakers, and further studies found that their failure rate was much higher than the industry standards.

Despite these findings, FP breakers were never officially recalled, and many homes built before 1990 still contain these dangerous breakers. This poses a serious risk to homeowners, especially since most people are unaware of the potential dangers of using FP breakers. Furthermore, these breakers have a limited lifespan, and as they age, the chances of them failing increases. This is why it is important for homeowners to take action and have their FP breakers replaced by a licensed electrician.

The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Electrician

While it may be tempting to attempt to replace FP breakers yourself, it is not recommended for safety reasons. A licensed electrician has the necessary skills, knowledge, and equipment to safely replace your FP breakers and ensure that your electrical system is up to code. They can also conduct a complete inspection of your electrical panel and wiring to identify any other potential hazards and address them accordingly. Attempting to replace the breakers yourself can not only be dangerous, but it can also result in further damage to your electrical system, leading to expensive repairs in the future.

At B&K Electric, our team of licensed electricians is well-equipped to handle the replacement of your FP breakers. As professionals, we adhere to all safety standards and regulations, ensuring that your home is safe from any potential hazards posed by faulty or outdated electrical components. We have the expertise to handle any type of electrical system and are trained to identify and fix any underlying issues that may be causing problems in your home.

The Replacement Process

Now that you understand the dangers of FP breakers and the importance of hiring a licensed electrician, you may be wondering what the replacement process entails. Here is what you can expect when you hire B&K Electric to replace your FP breakers:

1. Inspection and assessment – Our team will conduct a thorough inspection of your electrical panel to determine if you have FP breakers and assess their condition. This will allow us to develop a tailored action plan for the replacement process.

2. Professional advice and quotation – We will provide professional advice on the best course of action for your specific situation and provide a detailed quotation for the cost of replacement.

3. Obtaining necessary permits – Before starting any work, we will obtain the necessary permits from your local authorities to ensure that the replacement is done in compliance with local regulations.

4. Replacement – Our team will safely remove your old FP breakers and replace them with modern and efficient breakers.

5. Inspection and testing – Once the replacement is completed, we will conduct a final inspection and test to ensure that your electrical system is functioning properly and safely.

6. Clean-up and education – Our team will clean up the area and educate you on how to properly maintain your new breakers to prevent any potential hazards in the future.

Final Words

Your home’s electrical system is essential for the safety and functionality of your residence. Don’t risk the safety of your home and loved ones by neglecting the replacement of your Federal Pacific breakers. As a homeowner in the zip code 02904 of North Providence, Rhode Island, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and efficiency of your electrical system. By hiring B&K Electric for your FP breaker replacement, you can ensure that your home is up to code and safe from potential hazards.

Topics:

Federal Pacific breaker replacement,

licensed electrician,

electrical panel safety