Federal Pacific Panels: Potential Hazards for Homeowners in Cranston, RI

Federal Pacific Panels

As a homeowner in Cranston, Rhode Island, you may not have given much thought to the electrical panel in your home. However, if your home was built before the 1990s, there is a high chance that it contains a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel. These panels have a controversial history and have been deemed dangerous by many experts.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business in Warwick, RI, we take great pride in providing our community with reliable and safe electrical services. With over seventeen years of experience, our team of licensed electricians has seen the potential hazards of FPE panels first-hand. In this article, we will explore the history of FPE panels, their potential dangers, and why it is crucial for homeowners in Cranston and the greater Providence area to have them replaced.

The History of Federal Pacific Electric Panels

Federal Pacific Electric was a manufacturer of electrical equipment, including circuit breakers and panels, that were commonly used in residential and commercial buildings from the 1950s to the 1980s. They were known for their affordable prices and were one of the leading suppliers of electrical panels during this time.

However, in the 1980s, concerns started to arise about the safety and reliability of FPE panels. It was discovered that the company had cut corners in their production process, resulting in panels that did not meet safety standards. In 1983, Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the leading safety certification organization, revoked their listing for FPE panels, citing their failure to meet safety standards.

Despite this, the panels were still allowed to be sold and installed. It wasn’t until the early 2000s that FPE filed for bankruptcy and was forced to shut down their operations. But by then, millions of FPE panels had already been installed in homes across the United States, including in Cranston and the surrounding areas.

The Potential Dangers of FPE Panels

The main concern with FPE panels is their failure to trip during an electrical overload or short circuit. Circuit breakers are designed to trip in these situations, cutting off the electricity flow and preventing fires and other hazards. However, with FPE panels, the breakers often fail to trip, putting homes at risk of electrical fires.

In addition, due to the poor manufacturing process of FPE panels, their bus bars (which distribute power to the breakers) are known to have defects. This can lead to a loose connection, which can cause overheating and arcing, creating a fire hazard. In fact, a study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) found that FPE panels may be responsible for up to 2,800 electrical fires every year.

Furthermore, FPE panels have also been found to have a higher rate of breakers sticking, meaning they do not turn off even if switched to the ‘off’ position. This can lead to electrocution or electrical shocks when homeowners believe they have cut off the power to a certain area.

Why You Should Consider Replacing Your FPE Panel

As a homeowner in a city like Cranston, where many homes were built before the 1990s, it is highly possible that your home contains an FPE panel. And with the potential hazards associated with these panels, it is crucial to consider replacing them with a safer and more reliable option.

Even though FPE panels were decertified by UL over three decades ago, many of them are still in use today. This is because there has never been a recall or mandatory replacement of these panels, and they were never banned from being sold or installed. As a result, many homeowners are still unaware of the dangers they pose.

Furthermore, the average lifespan of an FPE panel is around 25 years, and with most homes in Cranston and the surrounding areas being over 30 years old, it is likely that these panels are reaching the end of their usable life. This means that they are more likely to malfunction and pose a risk in the coming years.

At B&K Electric, we highly recommend replacing your FPE panel with a newer, better-performing panel. Our team of experienced electricians can help you choose the best panel according to your home’s electrical needs, and ensure that it is properly installed and functioning safely.

Concluding perspectives

Federal Pacific Electric panels have a controversial history and have been deemed dangerous by many experts due to their failure to meet safety standards. As a homeowner in Cranston, RI, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards associated with these panels and consider replacing them with a safer alternative.

At B&K Electric, we understand the value of safety and reliability when it comes to your home’s electrical system. Our licensed electricians have the expertise and experience to help you upgrade your FPE panel and ensure the safety of your home and family. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and consultation for your home in Cranston or the greater Providence area.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Electric Panels,

Electrical Hazards,

Home Safety