Why Your Downtown Providence Home Needs Replacement

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement

As a homeowner in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island (zip code: 02903), you take pride in your property and want to ensure that it is well-maintained and safe for you and your family. When it comes to the electrical system in your home, it is important to stay on top of maintenance and repairs. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is the electrical panel. While it may not seem like a pressing issue, the safety and efficiency of your home ultimately depend on the condition of your electrical panel.

If you are in need of electrical panel maintenance or replacement, look no further than B&K Electric. As a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI, we have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in electrical panel maintenance, repairs, and installation, making us your go-to electrician for all your residential and commercial electrical needs.

Why is Federal Pacific Panel Replacement Important?

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of electrical panels from the 1950s to the 1980s. These panels were installed in millions of homes across the United States, including many homes in Downtown Providence. However, over time it was discovered that these panels were defective and posed serious safety hazards to homeowners.

One of the main issues with FPE panels is their tendency to not trip when a circuit is overloaded, which can result in overheating and leading to potential fires. In addition, the circuit breakers in these panels may also not function properly, increasing the risk of electrical shocks. These issues have been linked to numerous fires and injuries, leading to a recall of these panels by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the early 1980s.

It’s important to note that FPE panels were not officially recalled, but rather they were voluntarily retired by the manufacturer. This means that many homes still have these panels, and their potential hazards are not widely known by homeowners. This is where B&K Electric comes in. Our team of experts can assess your electrical panel and determine if it is an FPE panel that needs to be replaced.

What Are the Signs That You Need Federal Pacific Panel Replacement?

If your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s and you have not had your electrical panel replaced, it is possible that you have an FPE panel. However, even if the panel is older but has been replaced since the 1980s, it may still be an FPE panel. The best way to determine if you need a replacement is to have a licensed electrician like B&K Electric inspect your panel.

However, there are some signs that may indicate you have an FPE panel that needs to be replaced. These include:

1. Flickering lights: If your lights flicker constantly, it could be a sign that your electrical panel is outdated and struggling to keep up with the electrical demands in your home.

2. Burning smells: If you notice a burning smell coming from your electrical panel, it could be a sign of overheating, which is a potential fire hazard.

3. Tripping breakers: If your circuit breakers are frequently tripping, this could be a sign of an overloaded circuit or a faulty panel.

4. Old panel: If your electrical panel is over 40 years old, it is likely outdated and in need of replacement.

If you notice any of these signs in your home, do not ignore them. Contact B&K Electric immediately to schedule an inspection and replacement if necessary.

The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Electrician

When it comes to electrical work, it is always best to hire a licensed electrician like those at B&K Electric. Attempting to replace your electrical panel yourself or hiring an unlicensed contractor can not only put you and your family at risk, but it can also result in code violations and potential legal issues.

At B&K Electric, our team of licensed and experienced electricians have the skills and knowledge to safely and efficiently replace your FPE panel with a newer, safer panel. We also take care of all necessary permits and inspections to ensure that your home meets all safety and code requirements.

In Conclusion

Your home is your biggest investment, and it’s essential to keep it safe and up to date. Don’t overlook the importance of your electrical panel when it comes to the safety and efficiency of your home. If you suspect you have an FPE panel, contact B&K Electric for an inspection and replacement. Our experienced and licensed electricians will provide quality work and exceptional customer service to ensure your home is safe and up to code.

Topics:

Federal Pacific panel replacement,

electrical panel maintenance,

licensed electrician.