Federal Pacific Electrical Panels: The Hidden Danger in Your Home

Federal Pacific Electrical Panels

If you are a homeowner in the 02907 zip code of Cranston Providence, Rhode Island, it is important for you to be aware of the potential dangers of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels. These panels, commonly known as FPE panels, were popularly installed in homes in the 1950s and 1960s and were believed to be a safe and reliable choice for electrical distribution. However, recent studies and expert opinions have brought to light the potential fire hazards that these panels can pose. As a licensed and experienced electrician, B&K Electric is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and assistance you need to ensure your home and family’s safety. In this article, we will delve into the history, issues, and solutions surrounding FPE panels, and why B&K Electric should be your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

History of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels

In the post-World War II era, Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE) was a major manufacturer of electrical panels and circuit breakers. They were marketed as a cost-effective and reliable option for homes, and soon became a popular choice for residential installations. The company boasted of a lifetime warranty on these panels, making them an attractive option for homeowners. However, as time passed, reports of issues with these panels began to surface.

In 1982, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) conducted a series of tests on FPE panels and found that a significant number of them failed to trip off when overloaded, which is a crucial safety feature in the event of an electrical malfunction. This meant that these panels were not able to protect homes and families from potential fire hazards. Despite this discovery, FPE continued production and did not initiate a recall of their faulty panels.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels

So, what makes FPE panels so dangerous? The main issue with these panels lies in their design and build quality. They were found to have issues with their internal components, such as the breakers and bus bars, which are crucial for regulating and distributing electricity in a safe manner. The panels were also not properly tested and certified by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the primary organization responsible for the safety of electrical products, before being marketed. This led to serious consequences for homeowners using these panels.

When faced with an electrical overload or short circuit, a panel’s breakers are supposed to trip off, cutting off the power supply to prevent an electrical fire. However, due to their faulty design, FPE panels were found to have a high rate of failure to trip off, which could potentially lead to a fire. This issue was compounded by the fact that the panels were not equipped with safety measures such as arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), which are now commonly used in modern panels to prevent fire hazards. The lack of proper testing and certification also meant that the panels did not meet safety standards, putting homeowners at risk.

Solutions and Next Steps for Homeowners

If your home was built between the 1950s and the 1980s, there is a high chance that it may have an FPE panel. As a responsible homeowner, it is essential to get your panel inspected by a licensed and experienced electrician, especially if you have noticed any of the warning signs of a faulty panel, such as flickering lights, tripping breakers, or a burning smell near the panel. Ignoring these signs can put your home and family in danger.

If it is confirmed that you have an FPE panel, the safest option would be to have it replaced with a modern and certified panel. This may seem like a significant expense, but it is an investment in the safety of your home and loved ones. In fact, many insurance companies refuse to cover homes with FPE panels, as they are considered high-risk.

Why Choose B&K Electric for your Electrical Needs

As a family-owned and operated electrical business, B&K Electric understands the importance of community and customer service. Our experienced electricians have been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us your one-stop-shop for all your electrical needs.

When you choose B&K Electric, you can rest assured that you are getting top-quality service from licensed and trained professionals. We take the safety of our clients seriously, and our team is well-versed in diagnosing and addressing issues with FPE panels. We provide thorough inspections and offer reliable solutions, tailored to your specific needs and budget. Our friendly staff will guide you through the process and ensure that your home is equipped with a safe and certified electrical panel.

Don’t Compromise on Your Home’s Safety

As a homeowner in the 02907 Cranston Providence, Rhode Island, it is essential to be aware of the potential dangers of FPE panels in your home. The faulty design and lack of proper testing and certification make these panels a potential fire hazard, putting your home and loved ones at risk. At B&K Electric, we are committed to providing you with the knowledge and assistance you need to ensure your home’s safety. Don’t compromise on your home’s safety, choose B&K Electric for all your electrical needs.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Electrical Panels,

FPE Panels,

Electrical safety