Federal Pacific Breakers – What you Need to Know Before It’s Too Late

Federal Pacific Breakers

As a homeowner in the zip code 02910 area of Cranston Providence, Rhode Island, it is important to make sure that your electrical system is up to date and functioning properly. One crucial aspect of your electrical system that often gets overlooked is the circuit breaker panel. Many homes, especially those built in the 1950s-1980s, are equipped with Federal Pacific breakers, which have proven to be a major safety hazard.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. With a focus on community and customer service, B&K Electric has become the go-to electrician for all things related to electrical repair, panel maintenance and installation in the greater Providence area.

In this article, we will delve into the details of Federal Pacific breakers and why it is crucial that homeowners take immediate action to ensure the safety of their homes and families. So, let’s take a closer look at this lesser-known, but critical, component of your home’s electrical system.

What are Federal Pacific breakers?

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE), a now defunct company, manufactured circuit breakers and other electrical equipment from the 1940s to the 1980s. These breakers were widely used in residential and commercial buildings during that time, and it is estimated that millions of homes and buildings across the country still have FPE breakers installed.

At the time, FPE breakers were marketed as a more affordable alternative to other brands. However, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) started investigating the safety of these breakers in the 1970s after several incidents of fires and electrical malfunctions were reported. Despite evidence of possible defects, FPE continued to sell their breakers without making any changes.

The problem with Federal Pacific breakers

The main issue with FPE breakers is that they have a high tendency to malfunction and fail. In laboratory tests, it was discovered that the breakers often failed to trip, causing overheating and potential fires. Additionally, the breakers were found to be easily damaged by power surges, rendering them ineffective in the event of an electrical overload.

Furthermore, FPE breakers do not meet current safety standards and do not have any safety mechanisms, such as arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) or ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These safety mechanisms are crucial in preventing electrical fires and shocks, and their absence in FPE breakers is a major cause for concern.

Federal Pacific breakers also have a high rate of “double-tapping,” which is when two wires are connected to a single breaker. This can cause excessive heat buildup and increase the risk of fire. In fact, the CPSC estimates that FPE breakers are responsible for up to 2,800 fires, 13 deaths, and $40 million in property damage per year.

What should homeowners do?

If your home was built between the 1940s-1980s, it is highly likely that it has Federal Pacific breakers installed. In that case, it is imperative that you take action and have them replaced immediately. As a responsible homeowner, it is your duty to ensure the safety of your family and your property.

Replacing FPE breakers is not a DIY job and should only be done by a licensed electrician, such as B&K Electric. Our experienced and knowledgeable electricians have the expertise to safely remove and replace these hazardous breakers with modern, safer options.

As a homeowner, it is important to be proactive when it comes to the safety of your home. Regular maintenance and inspection of your electrical system is crucial in preventing potential hazards. B&K Electric offers panel maintenance services to ensure that your electrical system is in top-notch condition.

Federal Pacific breakers are a serious safety threat that should not be taken lightly. As a licensed and experienced electrician serving the Cranston, Warwick, and greater Providence area, B&K Electric urges homeowners to take immediate action if they have FPE breakers installed in their homes. Don’t wait for a disaster to happen – contact us today and let us ensure the safety of your home and your loved ones.

Topics:

Federal Pacific breakers,

electrical safety,

circuit breakers