Maintaining and Replacing Federal Pacific Panels: A Guide

Federal Pacific Panel

As the owner of a home in zip code 02909 in Providence, Rhode Island, you understand the importance of regular maintenance and repairs to ensure your property remains in top condition. While you may be diligent about maintaining the visible parts of your home, such as the roof, walls, and floors, it is just as important to prioritize the maintenance of less visible components, such as your electrical panel.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, Rhode Island, we have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. In our years of experience, we have seen firsthand the impact that a neglected electrical panel can have on a home, both in terms of safety and functionality. As such, we specialize in electrical panel maintenance and installation, making us the go-to electrician for homes and businesses in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

In this article, we will delve into the topic of Federal Pacific panels, their potential dangers, and the importance of regular maintenance and replacement. Whether you are a homeowner or a professional working in the residential industry, this article will provide valuable insights and information to keep you and your properties safe.

Understanding Federal Pacific Panels

Federal Pacific Panel: The Importance of Maintenance and Replacement

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of electrical panels in the United States from the 1950s to the 1980s. In fact, it is estimated that over half of all homes in the country during that period were equipped with FPE panels. While these panels were widely used and considered safe at the time, they have since been found to have major flaws and pose potential safety hazards.

One of the major concerns with FPE panels is their failure to trip a circuit breaker when overloaded. This means that in the event of a short circuit or excessive electricity use, the breakers may not shut off, resulting in overheating and potential electrical fires. Furthermore, the circuit breakers in these panels have been shown to have a higher failure rate compared to other brands.

Compounding the issue is the fact that these panels lack proper grounding and bonding, making them even more susceptible to safety hazards. As a result, in the 1980s, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) conducted an investigation on FPE panels and found evidence of internal arcing, which can lead to fires. However, the company denied all these claims and maintained that their panels were safe to use.

Why Maintenance and Replacement Is Crucial

Despite the numerous safety concerns surrounding FPE panels, many homes still have them installed. This is due to the fact that they were considered safe and popular during their time and many homeowners are not aware of their potential dangers. However, as homes age and electrical systems undergo wear and tear, the risks associated with these panels increase.

As a homeowner, it is crucial to prioritize the regular maintenance and replacement of your electrical panel, especially if it is a Federal Pacific panel. This will not only ensure the safety of your home and family but also prevent any potential damages and costly repairs in the future.

Signs It’s Time for Replacement

If you live in an older home and suspect that you may have an FPE panel, it is important to have it inspected by a licensed electrician. However, there are also some warning signs that may indicate it’s time for a panel replacement, such as frequent circuit overloads, flickering lights, buzzing sounds from the panel, and a burnt smell coming from the panel.

Furthermore, if you plan on selling your home, it is important to disclose the presence of an FPE panel to potential buyers. Many real estate agents and home inspectors will recommend that these panels be replaced before a sale is finalized, as it can significantly impact the value and safety of the property.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panel Replacement,

Electrical Panel Maintenance,

Electrical Panel Hazards