Homeowners’ Guide: Federal Pacific Panel in Elmhurst

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

Are you a homeowner in the beautiful city of Elmhurst, Rhode Island? If so, you may already be familiar with the importance of electrical safety and maintenance for your home. As the owner of a residential property, it is your responsibility to ensure that your electrical system is up to code and functioning properly to avoid any potential hazards. This is where B&K Electric comes in – your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in Providence County.

B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We understand the importance of providing quality electrical services, and our team of licensed electricians is dedicated to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our customers. In this article, we will discuss one of the most crucial components of your home’s electrical system – the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel.

Understanding the Function of the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

A circuit breaker panel, also known as a distribution board, is a crucial part of your home’s electrical system. It is responsible for distributing electricity from your main power source to the various outlets and appliances in your home. The circuit breaker panel also acts as your first line of defense in the event of a power surge or overload, cutting off the electricity flow to prevent potential electrical hazards.

The Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel was a popular choice for residential homes built in the 1950s and 1960s, including many homes in Elmhurst. It was designed to be a cost-effective alternative to other circuit breaker panels on the market. However, over time, it was discovered that these panels had significant design flaws, making them a potential safety hazard for homeowners.

The Safety Concerns of Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels

One of the most significant safety concerns with Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels is their tendency to fail to trip during an overload. In simple terms, the circuit breaker panel is designed to cut off the flow of electricity in the event of an overload, preventing electrical fires and other hazards. However, research has shown that the Federal Pacific panels have a high failure rate, with some studies suggesting as high as 60%. This means that in the event of an overload, the panel may not trip, putting your home and family at risk.

Another safety concern is the potential for electrical arcing, where electrical sparks occur between the circuit breaker contacts due to improper alignment. This can lead to fires, short circuits, and other electrical hazards. The design flaws of Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels have been linked to numerous electrical fires, resulting in property damage and even fatalities.

Replacement of Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels

If you are a homeowner in Elmhurst, Providence County, with a Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel installed in your home, it is crucial to have it replaced as soon as possible. While not all Federal Pacific panels will necessarily fail, the risk of not tripping during an overload is too significant to ignore. Replacing the panel with a modern, updated version from a reputable brand can significantly improve the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system.

At B&K Electric, we specialize in electrical panel maintenance and installation, and our team has the expertise and experience to safely and efficiently replace your Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel. We understand the importance of staying up to date with the latest safety standards and codes, and we will ensure that your new panel meets all requirements.

In Conclusion

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to make sure that your electrical system is safe and up to code. The Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel, while once a popular choice for homes, has since been found to have significant safety concerns. If you live in Elmhurst, Providence County, and have a Federal Pacific panel installed, it is vital to have it replaced to ensure the safety of your home and family. Contact B&K Electric for all your electrical panel needs, and let us help you keep your home safe and efficient.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel,

Residential Electrical Safety,

Circuit Breaker Panel Replacement