Homeowners’ Guide to Federal Pacific Breaker Boxes

Federal Pacific Breaker Box

As a homeowner in the North Providence, Rhode Island zip code of 02904, ensuring the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system is of utmost importance. It not only provides convenience and comfort but also plays a crucial role in the overall safety of your household. One important component of the electrical system is the breaker box, also known as an electrical panel. This is where all the circuit breakers that regulate and protect your home’s electrical circuits are housed. It is important to have a reliable and efficient breaker box to avoid potential hazards. That’s where B&K Electric comes in. We specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance and installation and have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years.

As a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, B&K Electric is rooted in community and customer service. We understand the unique needs and concerns of homeowners in the North Providence area and strive to provide top-notch services to meet those needs. In this article, we will discuss the Federal Pacific breaker box, one of the commonly used breaker boxes in homes across the United States, and shed light on its features, maintenance, and potential hazards.

Understanding the Federal Pacific Breaker Box

The Federal Pacific breaker box, also known as FPE Stab-Lok or FPE panel, was a popular choice for homes built between the 1950s and 1980s. It was manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company and was designed to provide efficient and safe electricity distribution. However, in the 1980s, there were reports of malfunctions and safety concerns with these breaker boxes, leading to investigations and recalls. Despite this, many homes still have these breaker boxes, and it is important for homeowners to be aware of their potential hazards.

Features of the Federal Pacific Breaker Box

The Federal Pacific breaker box has a distinct orange or red handle and is usually located in the basement or garage of a home. It contains circuit breakers that control the flow of electricity to different parts of the house. The unique feature of these breakers is that they have a “Stab-Lok” design, with a thin metal strip that connects the breaker to the bus bar. When the electrical current exceeds the capacity of the circuit, the metal strip bends, creating a disconnection and cutting off the electricity flow. This feature is meant to protect the circuit from overloading and causing potential safety concerns.

Maintenance of Federal Pacific Breaker Box

As with any electrical component, regular maintenance of the Federal Pacific breaker box is crucial for its proper functioning. Homeowners should have their breaker boxes inspected by a licensed electrician at least once every 5 years, and more frequently if they notice any warning signs such as flickering lights, excessive heat around the electrical panel, or burning smells.

During the inspection, the electrician will check for loose wires, corrosion, and other signs of wear and tear that can potentially cause malfunctions. They will also test the breakers to ensure they trip when the circuit is overloaded. If any issues are detected, the electrician will recommend maintenance or replacement of the breaker box to ensure the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system.

Hazards of Federal Pacific Breaker Box

The main safety concern with the Federal Pacific breaker box is its failure to trip when overloaded. This can result in overheating of wires, damage to appliances, and even fires. In fact, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Federal Pacific breaker boxes were responsible for more than 2,800 household fires in a 12-year period, leading to extensive property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. Another alarming issue with these breaker boxes is their lack of compliance with safety standards. In 2002, the federal court found that the company falsified test results and thus did not comply with the required safety standards.

Replacement Options for Federal Pacific Breaker Box

If you have a Federal Pacific breaker box in your home, it is crucial to have it inspected by a licensed electrician. In some cases, the breaker box might need to be replaced. Unfortunately, as Federal Pacific Electric is no longer in business, replacement parts for these breaker boxes are difficult to find. In such cases, your electrician might recommend replacing the entire panel. It is important to hire a licensed electrician who is experienced in panel replacement to ensure proper installation and safety compliance.

The Federal Pacific breaker box has been a popular choice for homes in the North Providence and surrounding areas. However, its history of malfunctions and safety concerns make it a potential hazard for homeowners. It is crucial for homeowners to be aware of these potential hazards and have their breaker boxes regularly inspected by a licensed electrician. B&K Electric is your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area. Remember, safety comes first, and it is always better to be proactive in ensuring the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system.

Topics:

Federal Pacific breaker box,

homeowner safety,

proper maintenance