Beware of Deadly Federal Pacific Panels: Solutions Await!

Federal Pacific Panels

As a homeowner in the 02908 zip code of Elmhurst, Providence County, Rhode Island, you may have heard about the potential dangers of Federal Pacific panels. B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, is here to provide you with all the information you need to know about these panels.

Our team at B&K Electric has been proudly serving residents of Cranston, Warwick and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We understand the importance of community and customer service, which is why we specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. We want to be your go-to electrician for all your home or business needs in the Warwick area and the greater Providence Area.

It is important to stay informed about potential hazards in our homes. One of the most common hazards that homeowners may come across is a Federal Pacific panel. In this article, we will explore the history of Federal Pacific panels, their potential dangers, and what steps you can take as a homeowner to ensure the safety of your electrical system.

History of Federal Pacific Panels

Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE) was a manufacturer of circuit breakers and electrical panels from the 1950s to the 1980s. During this time, FPE was one of the most widely used brands in the United States, with their panels installed in millions of homes.

At the time, FPE panels were seen as a cost-effective choice for homeowners and were widely used by builders and electricians. However, in the 1980s, concerns about the safety and reliability of these panels began to arise.

Issues with Federal Pacific Panels

One of the main concerns surrounding Federal Pacific panels is their tendency to not trip when overloaded or shorted. This means that the panel is unable to shut down the electrical current in case of an overcurrent or short circuit, which could lead to fires in the home.

Additionally, these panels have a high failure rate, with many breakers not functioning properly as they age. This can lead to overheating and damage to the panel, posing a significant fire hazard.

Furthermore, Federal Pacific panels have been found to have poor connections, causing arcing, sparks, and even electrical shocks. These issues make these panels a major safety concern for homeowners.

What to Look For

If your home was built between 1950 and 1980, there is a chance that it may have a Federal Pacific panel installed. You can check by looking for the company’s name on the main panel in your home. However, even if the panel does not have the company’s name, it is important to have it inspected by a licensed electrician.

Signs of a Federal Pacific panel include flickering lights, breakers that frequently trip, a panel that feels hot to the touch, and a burning smell coming from the panel. If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to have your panel inspected and potentially replaced.

Solutions for Federal Pacific Panels

If you have a Federal Pacific panel in your home, the best solution is to have it replaced by a licensed electrician. While some homeowners may consider simply replacing the breakers, this is not a safe or effective solution. The panel itself is the main issue, and simply replacing the breakers will not fix the underlying problems.

By having a licensed electrician replace your Federal Pacific panel, you can ensure the safety and proper functioning of your electrical system. Not only will this provide peace of mind for you and your family, but it can also increase the value of your home.

Choosing the Right Electrician

When it comes to electrical work, it is crucial to hire a licensed and experienced electrician. In the Elmhurst, Providence County, Rhode Island area, B&K Electric is the trusted choice for electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation.

Our team of trained and experienced electricians will provide you with top-quality service and reliable solutions for your electrical needs. We understand that the safety of your home and family is of the utmost importance, which is why we are dedicated to providing exceptional workmanship and customer service.

In Conclusion

Federal Pacific panels pose a significant risk to the safety of homeowners. If you suspect that your home may have a Federal Pacific panel, it is important to have it inspected by a licensed electrician. At B&K Electric, we are committed to keeping your home and family safe from potential electrical hazards. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or replacement of your Federal Pacific panel.

Topics:

Federal Pacific panels,

electrical hazards,

homeowner safety.