Warning for Homeowners: Federal Pacific Electric Panels

Federal Pacific Electric Panel

As a homeowner in the bustling city of Downtown Providence, Rhode Island, you take pride in your property. You have invested time and money into making your house a comfortable and safe place for you and your family. But have you ever considered the condition of your electrical panel? This vital component of your electrical system may not be on your list of daily concerns, but it is essential to your home’s safety and functionality.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI, we have been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and the greater Providence area for over seventeen years. Our electricians have dedicated their careers to providing quality electrical repairs, panel maintenance, and installations for homes and businesses. As experts in the field, we have seen our fair share of electrical issues, and one that continues to be a cause for concern is the Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Panel.

You may be wondering what a FPE Panel is and why it should matter to you as a homeowner. In this article, we will delve into the history, issues, and solutions surrounding this type of electrical panel and provide invaluable information that will help you make informed decisions about your home’s electrical system.

History of Federal Pacific Electric Panels

The Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE) was founded in 1929 and quickly became one of the largest manufacturers of circuit breakers and electrical panels in the United States. In the 1950s and 1960s, FPE panels were installed in millions of homes, making it one of the most popular brands at the time. However, in the early 1980s, the company was found guilty of fraudulent business practices, including failing to conduct proper safety tests on their products.

In 1983, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) launched an investigation into FPE panels after reports of breakers failing to trip in the event of an overload, leading to fires and electrocution. However, due to a lack of evidence, the investigation was closed in 1986. Many experts believe that S. David Gold, a former general counsel for FPE, intervened in the investigation, causing it to be closed prematurely.

Issues with Federal Pacific Electric Panels

The main issue with FPE panels lies in their circuit breakers, which are meant to shut off power in the case of an overload or short circuit. The breakers in FPE panels are known to be faulty, with a high rate of not tripping when necessary. This means that in the event of a power surge or electrical malfunction, the breaker will not shut off the power, putting the home and its occupants at risk of fire or electrocution.

Additionally, FPE panels were not designed to handle the amount of electricity used in modern homes. This can lead to overheating and other dangerous electrical issues. Other common problems with FPE panels include loose and corroded connections, as well as improper installation.

Unfortunately, because of the popularity and widespread use of FPE panels in the past, many homes in the United States still have these panels installed. It is estimated that over 28 million homes in the country have FPE panels, and a large number of them may not even be aware of the potential dangers they pose.

Solutions for Homeowners with Federal Pacific Electric Panels

If you own a home with an FPE panel, the most crucial step you can take is to have it inspected by a licensed electrician. B&K Electric has a team of experienced and knowledgeable electricians who can evaluate your panel and address any issues that may put your home at risk.

In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the FPE panel entirely. As this can be a significant expense, it is essential to work with a reputable and trustworthy electrician to ensure that the new panel is properly installed and meets all safety standards.

One solution that has been suggested by some experts is to add a secondary safety device, such as an arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI), to the FPE panel. This device can detect potentially dangerous arcs in the electrical system and shut off the power before a fire can start. However, this is not a fool-proof solution and may not be recommended by all electricians.

In Conclusion

As a homeowner, it is crucial to be aware of the potential dangers that an FPE panel may pose in your home. With a faulty circuit breaker and the inability to handle the electrical demands of modern homes, these panels can put you and your family at risk. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to electrical safety, and that is why we at B&K Electric urge you to have your FPE panel inspected by a licensed electrician.

At B&K Electric, we pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service and commitment to our community. As a family-owned business, we understand the importance of keeping your home and loved ones safe, and we are dedicated to providing top-notch electrical services. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure the safety of your home.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Electric Panel,

Electrical Safety,

FPE Panel Hazards