Understanding Federal Pacific Circuit Breakers in RI

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

As a homeowner in Washington Park, Providence, Rhode Island (zip code 02905), it is important to ensure that your home’s electrical system is safe and up to code. With numerous homes in the area built in the mid-1900s, many homeowners may still have outdated electrical panels, such as the Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel, that can pose serious safety risks.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, we understand the importance of keeping your home and loved ones safe. With over seventeen years of experience, our licensed electricians have been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island with our expertise in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation services. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Federal Pacific circuit breaker panels and why you should consider upgrading to a newer and safer electrical panel.

Understanding Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels

The Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE) was one of the leading manufacturers of electrical panels in the United States from the 1950s to the 1980s. Their circuit breaker panels were widely used in homes and businesses due to their affordability and availability. However, in the 1980s, their circuit breakers were found to have serious design flaws that could cause electrical fires.

The issue with Federal Pacific circuit breakers lies in their ability to properly trip and shut off the power when an overload or short circuit occurs. Studies have shown that these panels often fail to trip, allowing excessive heat to build up and potentially causing a fire. This defect not only puts the home at risk, but it also puts the lives of the residents in danger.

Safe Alternatives to Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels

If your home in Washington Park, Providence, has a Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel, it is highly recommended to replace it with a newer and safer alternative. Here are some of the safe alternatives that B&K Electric recommends for our clients:

1. Square D QO Panels: These panels have been in the market since the 1950s and are known for their durability and safety. They have advanced safety features, such as thermal magnetic tripping, that can quickly detect and shut off power in case of an overload or short circuit.

2. Eaton Cutler-Hammer Panels: These panels have been around since the early 1900s and have a solid reputation for their safety and reliability. They have a unique tripping mechanism that can detect heat from any loose connections or damaged wires, preventing potential fires.

3. Siemens Panels: The Siemens brand has been in the electrical industry for over 170 years and has a reputation for producing high-quality and safe panels. Their circuit breakers have advanced arc-fault detection technology that can quickly detect and respond to any dangerous electrical arcs, protecting your home from fire hazards.

Why Choose B&K Electric for Your Electrical Panel Needs

At B&K Electric, we are passionate about keeping our community safe and providing top-notch service to our clients. Here are some reasons why you should choose us for your electrical panel needs in the Warwick and Providence area:

1. Experienced and Licensed Electricians: All of our electricians are licensed and have extensive experience in dealing with various electrical issues, including Federal Pacific circuit breaker panels. They undergo regular training to stay updated with the latest safety codes and regulations.

2. Timely and Efficient Service: We understand the importance of time, which is why we value punctuality and efficiency in our service. Our team works diligently to get the job done right the first time, without compromising on quality.

3. Excellent Customer Service: As a family-owned and operated business, we prioritize building strong relationships with our clients. Our team is friendly, approachable, and always ready to assist you with any concerns or questions you may have.

Upgrade Your Electrical Panel Today for a Safe and Secure Home

If your home in Washington Park, Providence, is equipped with a Federal Pacific circuit breaker panel, replacing it with a newer and safer alternative is crucial for the safety of your home and your loved ones. At B&K Electric, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of service and ensuring that their homes are up to date with the latest safety regulations. Contact us today for a free consultation and upgrade your electrical panel to a safer and more reliable option.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel,

Home Safety,

Electrical Panel Upgrade