Complete Guide to Federal Pacific Electric Panels

Federal Pacific Electric Panels

When it comes to the electrical system in your home, safety should always be a top priority. After all, electricity is an essential component of our daily lives, and any malfunction or negligence could pose a serious risk to your home and family. As a homeowner in zip code 02907, Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island, it is crucial to be aware of potential hazards in your electrical system and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your home. One such potential danger is the use of Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels in your home’s electrical system.

B&K Electric, a trusted and reputable electrical business based in Warwick, RI, understands the importance of keeping your home safe and secure. Our team of experienced and licensed electricians has been providing top-notch electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation services to residents in Cranston, Warwick, and the entire state of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We are committed to serving our community and providing exceptional customer service, making us the go-to choice for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

Now, you may be wondering, what are Federal Pacific Electric panels, and why are they considered a potential hazard? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into all aspects of FPE panels, their history, and why it is crucial to have them inspected and replaced, if necessary, by a licensed and experienced electrician. So, let’s get started.

What are Federal Pacific Electric Panels?

Federal Pacific Electric panels were one of the most widely used electrical panels in homes in the United States from the 1950s to the 1980s. These panels were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Corporation and were known for their affordability and convenience. However, the company went bankrupt in 1980 due to various lawsuits and investigations launched against them.

It was then discovered that FPE panels had a serious flaw that posed a significant threat to the safety of homes and its occupants. The breakers in these panels were found to have a high tendency to malfunction and not trip when a circuit was overloaded. This meant that the breaker could not shut off the power supply, causing a potential fire hazard. This defect affected millions of homes in the United States, with most homes still having FPE panels installed in their electrical systems.

Why are FPE Panels a Potential Hazard?

As mentioned earlier, the main reason why FPE panels are considered a potential hazard is due to their high tendency to malfunction. When a circuit is overloaded, the breaker should trip and shut off the power supply, preventing overheating and potential fires. However, in the case of FPE panels, the breakers often failed to trip, causing the circuit to overheat and potentially result in a fire.

Another critical issue with FPE panels is that they were not designed to withstand the current technological demands of modern homes. Today, we have more appliances and devices that require a higher voltage supply. FPE panels were never meant to handle such high electrical demands, and over time, they can become overloaded, causing malfunction and potential hazards.

Aside from the risk of fire, FPE panels can also cause damage to your home’s electrical system. When a breaker fails to trip, it can also cause severe damage to your appliances, wiring, and other electrical components in your home. This can result in costly repairs or replacement and, in some cases, even a complete rewiring of your home.

What to do if You Have FPE Panels in Your Home?

If your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s, there is a high possibility that you have FPE panels installed in your electrical system. The only way to be sure is to have a licensed and experienced electrician inspect your panel and determine whether it is an FPE panel or not. If you do have FPE panels, it is imperative to have them replaced immediately to ensure the safety of your home and family.

Now, you may be wondering, why hasn’t there been a nationwide recall of FPE panels? The issue is that there is no legal requirement for manufacturers to recall defective electrical panels unless ordered by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Unfortunately, the CPSC has not issued a recall for FPE panels, which is why it is crucial to take matters into your own hands and have them inspected and replaced by a licensed electrician.

Federal Pacific Electric panels were widely used in homes in the United States for several decades. However, their high tendency to malfunction and potential hazards make them a significant concern for homeowners. If you live in zip code 02907, Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island, and have FPE panels in your home, it is crucial to have them replaced by a licensed and experienced electrician to ensure the safety of your home and family. Don’t risk the safety of your loved ones – contact B&K Electric for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

Topics:

FPE panels,

electrical safety,

panel replacement