Popular Breaker Boxes Endure for Decades

Federal Pacific Breaker Box Replacement Cost

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, we understand the importance of keeping your home and loved ones safe. Our team of expert electricians has been proudly 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 the go-to electrician for all your residential and commercial electrical needs in the Warwick and Greater Providence area.

So, what exactly is a Federal Pacific breaker box, and why does it need to be replaced? Let’s take a closer look at the cost and process of replacing this popular but potentially hazardous electrical component.

What is a Federal Pacific Breaker Box?

A Federal Pacific breaker box, also known as a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel or Stab-Lok breaker box, is a type of electrical panel that was commonly used in residential and commercial buildings during the mid 20th century. These breaker boxes were manufactured by Federal Pacific Electrical Company, a now-defunct company that was one of the largest producers of circuit breakers in North America at the time.

FPE breaker boxes were popular due to their affordability, compact size, and ease of installation. However, these breaker boxes have since been found to have reliability and safety issues, leading to widespread concerns and the need for replacement.

Why Do Federal Pacific Breaker Boxes Need to be Replaced?

Several issues have been reported with FPE breaker boxes, which have raised concerns about their safety and reliability. These issues include:

1. Faulty Circuit Breakers: FPE breakers have been found to have a high failure rate, which can result in the breaker not tripping when it should, leading to potential electrical fires.

2. Stab-Lok Design Flaw: The design of FPE breakers, known as Stab-Lok, has been found to be faulty and prone to breakage. This can lead to arcs and sparks, which can cause fires and electrical shocks.

3. Inadequate Grounding: FPE breaker boxes have been found to have inadequate grounding, which can lead to hazardous voltage levels and expensive damage to appliances and electronics.

4. Evidence of Tampering: Many FPE breakers have been found to have evidence of tampering, indicating that the breaker was removed and re-installed to cover up a previous issue.

Due to these safety concerns, experts recommend replacing FPE breaker boxes with a newer, safer electrical panel.

What is the Cost of Replacing a Federal Pacific Breaker Box?

The cost of replacing a Federal Pacific breaker box can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the box, the complexity of the installation process, and the location of the home. Homeowners in Providence, Rhode Island, can expect to pay an average of $1,500-$2,500 for a professional FPE breaker box replacement.

However, it is essential to note that the cost of replacing a Federal Pacific breaker box is a worthwhile investment in the safety of your home. Not only does it give you peace of mind knowing that your electrical panel is up to date and safe, but it can also save you money in the long run by preventing potential electrical fires and costly damages.

The Replacement Process

Replacing a Federal Pacific breaker box should only be done by a licensed and experienced electrician. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Inspection: A licensed electrician will inspect the current FPE breaker box to determine its safety and identify any issues that need to be addressed.

2. Electrical Panel Selection: Based on the size and energy needs of your home, your electrician will recommend a new electrical panel that meets current safety standards and codes.

3. Replacement: Once the new electrical panel is selected, the old FPE breaker box will be removed, and the new panel will be installed.

4. Permit and Inspection: A permit will need to be obtained from the local authority, and an inspection will need to be done to ensure that the new electrical panel meets safety standards and codes.

The replacement of a Federal Pacific breaker box is a critical step in ensuring the safety and reliability of your home’s electrical system. While the cost may seem daunting, the investment in a new electrical panel is well worth it to protect your home, loved ones, and valuable possessions. We at B&K Electric are here to assist you with all your electrical needs, including Federal Pacific breaker box replacement. Trust us to provide you with the highest quality service and peace of mind. Contact us for more information or to schedule an inspection and replacement.

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