Federal Pacific Panel Replacement Cost: How to Determine and What to Expect

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement Cost

Are you a homeowner or a business owner located in Zip Code 02903, in the downtown area of Providence, Rhode Island? Do you need an electrician who can provide reliable, efficient, and quality services for your electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation needs? Look no further because B&K Electric is here to serve you.

As a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, B&K Electric is dedicated to providing top-notch services to the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. Our team of licensed electricians is highly experienced and equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to cater to all your electrical needs.

One of the most common issues we encounter during our services is outdated Federal Pacific panels. We have seen many homeowners and business owners in the area struggle with this problem, which not only poses a threat to their safety but also affects the overall efficiency of their electrical system. In this article, we will discuss the cost of Federal Pacific panel replacement, how to determine if you need one, and what to expect during the process.

What is a Federal Pacific Panel?

Before we dive into the cost and process of Federal Pacific panel replacement, let’s first understand what it is. Federal Pacific panels were commonly used in homes and buildings from the 1950s to the 1980s. They are known for their compact and sleek design, which made them popular at the time. However, it was later discovered that these panels had several flaws and safety issues.

Federal Pacific panels are known for their high failure rate, meaning they are more likely to overheat, malfunction, and cause electrical fires compared to other brands. This is due to the inferior quality of their circuit breakers, which have been found to not trip properly when overloaded. This means that even with a circuit breaker in place, your home or building is still at risk of electrical fires.

Determining if You Need a Federal Pacific Panel Replacement

Now that you know the potential dangers of having a Federal Pacific panel, the next question is – do you need a replacement? The short answer is yes. If you have a Federal Pacific panel installed in your home or building, it is highly recommended to have it replaced for safety reasons.

Here are some signs that indicate you may need a Federal Pacific panel replacement:

1. Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breakers: If you notice that your circuit breakers trip often, it could mean that they are malfunctioning and not providing adequate protection for your electrical system.

2. Burn Marks or Discoloration on the Panel: If you see any burn marks or discoloration on your panel, it could be a sign of overheating, which is a major safety concern.

3. Flickering or Dimming Lights: This could be a sign of an overloaded circuit, which could be due to a malfunctioning circuit breaker.

4. Old Age: If your panel is more than 20 years old, it is likely that it needs to be replaced. The older the panel, the higher the chances of it being faulty.

5. Difficulty Finding Replacement Parts: Since Federal Pacific has been out of business for many years, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find replacement parts for their panels. This could lead to using subpar or mismatched parts, which could pose a safety risk.

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement Cost

Now that you have determined the need for a Federal Pacific panel replacement, the next question that comes to mind is – how much will it cost? The cost of a Federal Pacific panel replacement can range anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on various factors such as the size of your system and the complexity of the installation.

The cost also includes the labor fees of the electricians and the materials needed for the replacement. However, it is important to note that this cost is only an estimation. The actual cost may vary depending on your specific needs and the electrical company you hire.

What to Expect During the Process

Replacing a Federal Pacific panel is not a simple task that can be done in a day. It involves a series of steps that need to be taken to ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical system. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect during the process:

1. Consultation: The first step is to consult a licensed electrician to assess your panel and determine the scope of the replacement. They will provide you with an estimate and a detailed explanation of the process.

2. Disconnecting the Power: Before any work can begin, the power needs to be turned off to ensure the safety of the electricians and the building.

3. Removing the Old Panel: Once the power is turned off, the electricians will remove the old panel, circuits, and wiring.

4. Installing the New Panel: The new panel will be installed, and new circuits and wiring will be connected.

5. Turning the Power Back On: After the installation, the electricians will turn the power back on and run a series of tests to ensure everything is functioning properly and safely.

Last reflections

Federal Pacific panel replacement is a necessary and important investment for the safety and efficiency of your electrical system. Although the cost may seem high, it is a small price to pay for the safety of your home or building. As a homeowner or business owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your electrical system is up to date and safe for use.

If you are located in Zip Code 02903, in the downtown area of Providence, Rhode Island, B&K Electric is here to provide you with top-quality services for your electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation needs. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure the safety of your electrical system.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement,

Electrical Repair,

Panel Maintenance & Installation