Fire Risk Alert for Providence Homeowners

Federal Pacific Panel

If you are a homeowner in Providence, Rhode Island, you may have heard of Federal Pacific Panels (FPP), also known as Stab-Lok panels. These electrical panels were once a popular choice for residential and commercial properties due to their cost-effectiveness. However, over time, they have gained a reputation for being problematic and even dangerous. As an experienced electrician at B&K Electric, specializing in panel maintenance and installation, I have seen firsthand the issues that FPPs can cause for homeowners. In this article, we will dive deep into the topic of FPPs and explore why they are considered a fire hazard for homes in the Providence area.

What is a Federal Pacific Panel?

A Federal Pacific Panel is an electrical panel that was manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company between the 1950s and 1980s. These panels were used in millions of homes and commercial buildings during that time. They were popular due to their lower cost compared to other panel brands. The company marketed them as being safe and reliable. However, over the years, this has proven to be far from the truth.

Why are They Considered a Fire Hazard?

FPPs have been linked to numerous electrical fires in residential and commercial properties. The issue lies in the quality of the panels and their components. Internal testing has shown that the circuit breakers in FPPs do not always trip when there is an overload or a short circuit. This can lead to overheating and fires within the electrical panel. In addition, the panel’s bus bar, which connects the electrical circuits, has been found to be poorly designed and can easily become damaged, causing the breakers to malfunction.

Furthermore, FPPs have a high failure rate, especially for older panels. This means that even if your panel has been functioning properly for years, it is still at risk of failing and causing a fire. As these panels age, the chances of them malfunctioning and causing a fire only increase.

Why is it a Concern for Homeowners in Providence?

If you are living in the zip code 02909 in Providence, Rhode Island, chances are your home was built decades ago, and the likelihood of it having a Federal Pacific Panel is high. Many homes in this area still have FPPs, and unfortunately, most homeowners are still unaware of the potential danger lurking in their own homes.

What Can Homeowners Do?

If you are a homeowner in Providence, or anywhere else for that matter, and your home has an FPP, the best course of action is to have it replaced immediately. Due to the high failure rate and potential danger of these panels, they should not be taken lightly. As a licensed electrician, I have seen the difference in safety and efficiency when replacing an FPP with a newer, safer panel.

How B&K Electric Can Help

At B&K Electric, our top priority is the safety and satisfaction of our customers. We understand the importance of having a reliable and safe electrical system in your home or business. This is why we specialize in panel maintenance and installation services. Our team of experienced electricians will diligently inspect your panel and any other electrical components to ensure they are functioning properly and safely. If we find that your home has an FPP, we will recommend and carry out a replacement with a newer, safer panel.

In addition to panel maintenance and installation, we also offer a wide range of electrical repair services. Our team has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to handle any electrical issue you may have in your home or business. When it comes to your safety and the safety of your loved ones, it is crucial to hire a licensed and experienced electrician. B&K Electric has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years, and our reputation speaks for itself.

Conclusion

Federal Pacific Panels, also known as Stab-Lok panels, are a potential fire hazard for homeowners in Providence, Rhode Island. These panels were once popular due to their lower cost, but over time, they have proven to be dangerous and unreliable. If you are a homeowner in Providence, it is important to have your panel inspected by a licensed electrician and replaced if necessary. B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI, and specializes in panel maintenance and installation services. Trust us to keep your home and loved ones safe from potential electrical hazards.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panel,

Electrical Panels,

Fire Hazard.