Federal Pacific Panel Replacement: Why You Need to Upgrade Now

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement

If you are a homeowner in the Washington Park neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island, you may not be familiar with the term Federal Pacific Panel. But as electrical experts and professionals, B&K Electric wants to make sure you are aware of the potential risks of not replacing this outdated electrical panel.

At B&K Electric, we understand the importance of having a safe and functioning electrical system in your home. Our family-owned and operated business has been serving the residents of Warwick, Cranston, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us your go-to electrician for all your residential and commercial needs in the greater Providence area.

But why is it crucial for you, as a homeowner, to consider upgrading your Federal Pacific Panel? In this article, we will delve deeper into the dangers associated with these outdated panels and why you should consider a replacement. But before we do that, let us first understand what a Federal Pacific Panel is.

What is a Federal Pacific Panel?

Federal Pacific Panels (also known as FPE Panels) were commonly used in residential properties throughout the 1950s and 1960s. These panels were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company and were widely considered as an affordable and reliable option for homeowners at the time.

However, over the years, it was discovered that these panels have a faulty design that can put homeowners at risk of electrical fires. This is why, in 1981, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) conducted an investigation and found that these panels have a high failure rate, leading to widespread safety concerns. As a result, the production of these panels was discontinued, and they are no longer available in the market.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Panels

Federal Pacific Panels have been known to have a high failure rate, making them a severe safety hazard for homeowners. The primary reason for this is due to a design flaw that does not allow the breakers to trip when needed. This means that in the event of an overload or short circuit, the breaker may not shut off the power, which can result in an electrical fire.

According to the CPSC, these panels have a failure rate of up to 60%. That means that about six out of ten homes with FPE panels are at risk of experiencing electrical fires. Furthermore, these panels do not meet the safety standards of the National Electric Code (NEC), making them a significant safety concern for homeowners.

In addition to the risk of electrical fires, Federal Pacific Panels are also known to cause power surges, which can damage your appliances and electronics. This can happen even when the breaker is functioning correctly, as the panel is unable to handle the electrical load, resulting in power surges.

The importance of Upgrading Your Federal Pacific Panel

As a homeowner in the United States, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of your family and your property. One way to do that is by upgrading your outdated and potentially dangerous Federal Pacific Panel.

By replacing your FPE panel with a new and updated electrical panel, you are not only reducing the risk of electrical fires, but you are also ensuring that your electrical system is up to code and can handle the demands of modern technology.

Furthermore, if you plan on selling your home in the future, having a Federal Pacific Panel can be a significant red flag for potential buyers. Most home inspectors will recommend an electrical panel upgrade, which can be a costly expense for the new homeowner.

Lastly, upgrading your FPE panel can also help you save on your homeowner’s insurance. With an updated and safer electrical system, insurance companies may offer you lower rates, as they see you as a responsible and low-risk homeowner.

Entrust Your Federal Pacific Panel Replacement to B&K Electric

At B&K Electric, we are dedicated to providing top-quality electrical services to our customers. Our team of highly skilled and experienced electricians will conduct a thorough inspection of your Federal Pacific Panel and recommend the best course of action.

We understand that upgrading your electrical panel may seem like a daunting and costly task, but the safety of your family and your home should always be a top priority. That’s why we offer competitive pricing and timely services to ensure that your electrical upgrade is done efficiently and within your budget.

Don’t wait for an electrical emergency to happen. Contact B&K Electric today and schedule your Federal Pacific Panel replacement. Our team is here to serve you and provide you with a safe and functional electrical system for your home or business.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panel,

Electrical Panel Replacement,

Electrical Safety