The Importance of Hiring a Pro for Federal Pacific Panel Replacement

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement Cost

As a homeowner, you may not give much thought to your electrical panel. It’s tucked away in a corner of your house, quietly doing its job to distribute electricity throughout your home. However, if your home was built before the 1990s, your electrical panel may be a Federal Pacific panel. And if that is the case, you need to pay attention.

The Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of electrical panels from the 1950s to the 1980s. They were widely used in homes, not just in Providence, Rhode Island, but all over the country. However, it was later discovered that these panels were not meeting safety standards and posed a severe fire hazard. As a result, they were discontinued, and homeowners were advised to replace them.

If you’re a homeowner in the zip code 02907 in Cranston Providence, Rhode Island, and your home has a Federal Pacific panel, B&K Electric is here to help. As a family-owned and operated electrical business, we understand the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. In this article, we’ll talk about the cost of replacing a Federal Pacific panel and why it’s essential to hire a licensed electrician for the job.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Replacing a Federal Pacific Panel

The cost of replacing a Federal Pacific panel can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on various factors. Let’s take a look at some of the essential factors that affect the cost of replacing a Federal Pacific panel.

1. Size of the Panel

The size of your electrical panel plays a significant role in determining the cost of replacement. The standard size of a panel is 100 amps, but older homes may have smaller panels that can hold only 60 amps. If your home has a smaller panel, it may need an upgrade to handle the electrical demands of modern appliances and equipment. This upgrade will add to the cost of replacement.

2. Additional Electrical Upgrades

In addition to replacing the Federal Pacific panel, you may need other electrical upgrades to ensure the safety and functionality of your home. These upgrades may include installing GFCI outlets, upgrading wiring, or installing surge protectors. These additional upgrades will add to the overall cost of replacing your panel.

3. Access to the Panel

The accessibility of your panel is also a significant factor when it comes to the cost of replacement. If your panel is located in an accessible location, it will be easier and faster to replace, reducing labor costs. However, if the panel is in a difficult-to-reach area, such as a crawlspace or attic, it will take more time and effort to replace, increasing the overall cost.

4. Local Building Codes

In Rhode Island, electrical work is subject to local building codes, and your electrician must obtain the necessary permits before starting the replacement process. Different municipalities have different requirements and permit fees, which can impact the cost of replacement. Only a licensed electrician will know and follow these codes, ensuring the safety and compliance of the replacement work.

Why Hire a Professional for Federal Pacific Panel Replacement

While it might be tempting to save money by attempting to replace your Federal Pacific panel yourself, it’s crucial to hire a licensed electrician for this job. Here’s why:

1. Safety First

The most significant reason to hire a professional for panel replacement is safety. The Federal Pacific panel has a history of not meeting safety standards, and faulty replacement can lead to life-threatening hazards. A licensed electrician will know the necessary safety precautions and ensure a safe and compliant replacement.

2. Proper Training and Experience

Licensed electricians go through rigorous training and have years of experience in handling electrical work. They have the necessary expertise to tackle even the most complex panel replacements. Trying to replace your panel without proper training and experience can lead to errors and safety hazards.

3. Knowledge of Local Codes and Permits

As mentioned earlier, different municipalities have different building codes and permit requirements for electrical work. Licensed electricians are well versed in these codes and will get the necessary permits before starting the replacement process. This ensures that the work is compliant, and you won’t face any issues in the future.

Final considerations

Replacing a Federal Pacific panel is not an easy or cheap task, but it is crucial for the safety and well-being of your home and family. The cost may seem high, but it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind and safety of your loved ones. Hiring a licensed electrician like B&K Electric for the job is the best decision you can make. They have the necessary training, experience, and knowledge of local codes to ensure a safe and efficient panel replacement.

Topics:

Federal Pacific panel replacement,

electrical panel maintenance,

licensed electrician