Uncovering the Dangers of Federal Pacific Breaker

Federal Pacific Breaker Box

As a Providence homeowner, you have likely never given much thought to your home’s electrical system. It’s one of those things that is out of sight and out of mind, as long as the lights turn on and appliances work, most people assume all is well. However, there is one hidden hazard that homeowners in Providence, Rhode Island should be aware of – the Federal Pacific breaker box.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, we have been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and the greater Providence area for over seventeen years. We have seen firsthand the dangers and risks associated with Federal Pacific (FPE) breaker boxes, and we want to ensure that our community is informed and educated about this potential hazard.

What is a Federal Pacific breaker box?

In simplest terms, a Federal Pacific breaker box is a type of electrical panel that controls the flow of electricity into your home. It is often referred to as a circuit breaker panel or fuse box. The FPE brand was once one of the most commonly used electrical panels in residential homes throughout the United States, including in Providence, Rhode Island.

Why is the Federal Pacific breaker box a potential hazard?

In the 1950s and 60s, FPE electrical panels gained widespread popularity due to their low cost and easy installation. However, as homes from this era have aged, numerous flaws and defects in the FPE panels have been discovered. These flaws can pose serious safety and fire hazards for homeowners.

One of the main problems with FPE panels is that they have a high failure rate. This means that the breakers do not trip when they should, or they trip inconsistently. This can lead to overloaded circuits, which can cause sparks and arcing, and ultimately, electrical fires.

In addition, FPE panels do not meet current safety standards and do not have the same level of protection and safety features as newer, modern panels. This can put your home at risk of electrical issues and fires.

What are the signs of a faulty Federal Pacific breaker box?

Unfortunately, there are not always obvious signs that your Federal Pacific breaker box is faulty. However, there are a few warning signs that you may notice:

1. Breakers trip frequently: If your breakers are tripping regularly, it could be a sign of an overloaded or faulty FPE panel.

2. Burn marks or discoloration: If you notice any scorch marks or discoloration around your breaker box, this could indicate overheating and a potential fire hazard.

3. Strange odors: If you notice a burning smell coming from your breaker box, this is a clear indication that something is wrong and needs to be addressed immediately.

What should I do if I have a Federal Pacific breaker box in my Providence home?

If you live in an older home and suspect that you may have a Federal Pacific breaker box, it is crucial to have it inspected by a licensed electrician. At B&K Electric, we specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. Our team of experienced electricians can assess your FPE panel and determine if it needs to be replaced.

If your Federal Pacific breaker box needs to be replaced, do not delay in taking action. It is a safety hazard that needs to be addressed as soon as possible to protect your family and home. Our team can install a modern, safer electrical panel that meets current safety standards and will give you peace of mind.

While your Federal Pacific breaker box may have been a cost-effective choice for your home in the past, it is now a potential hazard that should not be ignored. As a homeowner in Providence, RI, it is essential to be proactive and ensure that your family and home are safe from any electrical risks. Contact B&K Electric today to schedule an inspection of your FPE panel and ensure the safety of your home.

Topics:

Federal Pacific breaker box,

electrical panel safety,

potential hazards of outdated electrical panels