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Federal Pacific Panels

 

If you’re a homeowner in Cranston, Rhode Island, you may have come across the term Federal Pacific Panel. But what exactly is it? And why should you care?

As experts in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, B&K Electric is here to provide you with a comprehensive guide on federal pacific panels. As a family-owned and operated business with over 17 years of experience serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island, we understand the importance of staying informed about the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system.

In this article, we’ll dive into what federal pacific panels are, why they have garnered controversy in the electrical industry, and what steps you can take to ensure the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system.

What are Federal Pacific Panels?

In the simplest terms, a federal pacific panel (also known as FPE) is an electrical panel that is used to distribute electric power throughout a building or home. They were commonly installed in homes built between the 1950s and the 1980s and were once considered a reliable and cost-effective option for electrical systems.

However, in recent years, federal pacific panels have come under scrutiny due to safety concerns. The panels were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE), which was in operation from 1950 to 1980. It was once one of the largest manufacturers of circuit breakers and electrical panels in the United States.

Why are They Controversial?

It was discovered that the design and construction of federal pacific panels were faulty, leading to potential safety hazards. The panels were found to have a high failure rate, meaning they were not as reliable as initially thought.

The main issue with federal pacific panels is their inability to trip (shut off) in the event of overloading or a short circuit. This means that if your home’s electrical system is drawing too much power, the panels may not shut off, putting your home at risk of electrical fires.

Moreover, it was also found that the breakers in federal pacific panels could easily become loose, which could result in electrical arcing. Arcing occurs when two electrical connections are close enough to each other to create a spark, which can also lead to fires.

As a result of these issues, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) conducted an investigation in the 1980s and found that federal pacific panels were responsible for a large number of electrical fires in homes.

Steps You Can Take

If your home was built between 1950 and 1980, it’s essential to have your electrical panel inspected by a licensed electrician. As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your home is safe and up to standard, and your electrical panel is no exception.

At B&K Electric, we highly recommend having your federal pacific panel replaced as a preventative measure. By replacing your panel, you can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires and ensure the efficiency and safety of your home’s electrical system.

Our team of expert electricians is licensed and equipped to handle the replacement and installation of federal pacific panels. We understand the importance of performing this task correctly to ensure the safety of your home and family.

We also offer electrical panel maintenance services to ensure that your panel is functioning correctly and efficiently. Our maintenance services include a thorough inspection of your panel, cleaning and tightening connections, and replacing any faulty parts.

In Conclusion

As a homeowner, it’s crucial to stay informed about the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. Federal pacific panels have become a controversial topic in the electrical industry, and it’s essential to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your home and family.

If you reside in the Cranston, Rhode Island area, B&K Electric is your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs. With over 17 years of experience serving the residents of Warwick, Cranston, and the greater Providence area, rest assured that your home’s electrical system is in good hands with our team of expert electricians.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for any electrical repair, panel maintenance, or installation needs. Our top priority is to provide exceptional customer service and keep our community safe and powered. Trust us to handle all of your electrical needs, and you won’t be disappointed.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panels,

Electrical Repair,

Panel Maintenance