Danger Lurks: Federal Pacific Fuse Box Problem

Federal Pacific Fuse Box

Have you recently moved into a new home in the 02907 zip code of Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island? Or perhaps you have been living in your current residence for quite some time. Either way, as a homeowner, you have a lot on your plate when it comes to maintenance and upkeep of your property. And one crucial aspect that should not be overlooked is the condition of your electrical panel.

When it comes to electrical panels, many homeowners are familiar with the brand Federal Pacific. However, what they may not know is that these outdated and potentially dangerous panels pose a significant risk to their home and safety. In fact, B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has seen firsthand the negative consequences of these panels and advises homeowners to make the switch to safer options.

With over seventeen years of experience serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island, B&K Electric has encountered countless homes with outdated and malfunctioning Federal Pacific fuse boxes. In this article, we will delve into the history of these panels, why they are considered a fire hazard, and what homeowners should do if they have one.

The History of Federal Pacific Fuse Boxes

In the late 1950s to the early 1980s, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was one of the most prominent manufacturers of electrical panels in the United States. In fact, it is estimated that up to 60% of homes built during this time period were equipped with FPE panels.

FPE’s popularity was due to its relatively low cost and ease of installation. However, what was not known to homeowners at the time was that these panels were poorly designed and manufactured. In fact, multiple tests conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) revealed significant flaws in the panels’ safety features, such as faulty circuit breakers and ineffective mechanisms for detecting and preventing electrical fires.

Despite numerous red flags and warnings from experts, FPE continued to produce and sell these panels. It wasn’t until 1982 that FPE was forced to shut down due to multiple lawsuits and investigations into their faulty products.

Why Federal Pacific Fuse Boxes Are Considered a Fire Hazard

FPE panels are known for their widespread malfunctioning and inability to trip and shut off power during an electrical overload. This means that when an unusually high amount of power flows through the panel, the circuit breaker is supposed to trip and stop the flow of electricity. With FPE panels, this often did not happen, leading to power surges that could cause sparks and fires.

Numerous independent studies and investigations have found that FPE panels have a high failure rate and that they do not meet the safety standards set by UL. These findings, along with the fact that FPE is no longer in business, should be a cause for concern for homeowners with these panels in their homes.

In the event of an electrical fire caused by a malfunctioning FPE panel, homeowners may face difficulty with their insurance companies. Some insurance companies have even started to exclude coverage for damages caused by FPE panels, leaving homeowners with costly repairs or, even worse, having to cover the damages themselves.

What Should Homeowners Do?

If your home in the 02907 zip code of Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island has an FPE panel, it is highly recommended that you have it replaced immediately. As a licensed electrician, B&K Electric has seen the consequences of these outdated panels and their potential to cause fires and put homeowners at risk. Don’t wait for an incident to occur before taking action.

Many homeowners may be hesitant to spend the money to replace their FPE panel, but it is a necessary investment for the safety of their home and family. The cost of replacing an entire panel may seem daunting, but the cost of fire damages and potential insurance problems far outweigh the initial cost.

Choosing a Licensed Electrician You Can Trust

When it comes to electrical work in your home, it is essential to choose a licensed and experienced electrician that you can trust. That’s where B&K Electric comes in. As a family-owned and operated business rooted in community and customer service, B&K Electric is dedicated to providing top-quality electrical services to homeowners in Cranston, Providence, and the greater Providence area.

Our team of electricians is highly trained and experienced in all aspects of electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. We take pride in our commitment to delivering excellent service and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our customers.

Don’t take the risk by neglecting to replace your Federal Pacific fuse box. Trust B&K Electric for all your electrical needs and rest easy knowing that your home’s electric is in good hands.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Electric,

Electrical Panel Replacement,

Home Safety