Switch to Safe: Federal Pacific Panel Replacement
Federal Pacific Panel Replacement
For most homeowners, electrical systems are out of sight, out of mind. As long as the lights turn on and appliances work, there is little thought given to the electrical panel that powers the home. However, with an increased demand for electricity, it is crucial to ensure that your home’s electrical system is up-to-date and functioning safely. This is especially true for those living in North Providence, Rhode Island, where harsh weather conditions and frequent power outages can put more strain on electrical systems.
As a licensed electrician servicing residences in North Providence and the greater Providence area, I have seen the dangers posed by outdated electrical panels firsthand. That is why I highly recommend homeowners in this area to consider Federal Pacific panel replacement. B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, Rhode Island, has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston and Warwick for over seventeen years. With our expertise in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, we are the go-to electricians for ensuring the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system.
The Dangers of Federal Pacific Panels
In the 1950s and 1960s, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was one of the leading manufacturers of electrical panels in the United States. These panels were installed in millions of homes across the country and were considered reliable and affordable at the time. However, in the late 1970s, investigations found that these panels were not only defective but also posed significant safety hazards.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) found that FPE panels had a high tendency of failing to trip and shut off power when a circuit overloads. This means in the event of a short circuit, the panel may not trip, and the excessive current can result in overheating, leading to a fire. This issue, known as a double tap, is especially concerning given that FPE panels have also been linked to numerous electrical fires. In addition, the lack of a trip mechanism also poses a significant risk of electrocution.
Federal Pacific panels’ defects have been known for decades, and the CPSC even considered issuing a recall in the 1980s. However, due to insufficient evidence and lack of cooperation from FPE, no official recall was ever issued. This means that millions of homes across the United States, including those in North Providence, may still have FPE panels that pose significant safety hazards.
Why You Should Consider Panel Replacement
As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones. While it may be tempting to cut costs and avoid having your electrical panel replaced, it is not a risk worth taking. With the potential consequences of fires and electrocution, the cost of panel replacement is nothing compared to the value of your home and the safety of your family.
In addition to the safety hazards, an outdated electrical panel can also cause frequent tripping, power outages, and damage to appliances due to the lack of capacity and proper grounding. With the growing demand for electricity in modern homes, an old panel may no longer be able to handle the load, leading to unreliable and inefficient electricity.
Choose B&K Electric for Federal Pacific Panel Replacement
B&K Electric is a licensed and experienced electrical company with expertise in panel replacement and maintenance. Our team of dedicated electricians understands the importance of safety and functionality when it comes to your home’s electrical system. That is why we offer Federal Pacific panel replacement services to ensure that your home is up-to-date and safe from potential hazards.
We follow strict safety protocols and use top-of-the-line equipment to replace your FPE panel with a modern, safer, and more efficient one. Our team also conducts thorough inspections of your home’s electrical system to ensure that all wiring and connections are up-to-code and functioning correctly. With our experience and dedication to excellent customer service, we will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your home’s electrical system is reliable and safe.
In Conclusion
As a homeowner, it is essential to stay informed about potential hazards to your home’s safety. Federal Pacific panels are a known safety hazard, and if your North Providence home has one, it is crucial to consider panel replacement. With B&K Electric, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home’s electrical system is in safe hands. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and learn more about our Federal Pacific panel replacement services.
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