Protecting Your East Providence, RI Home’s Electrical System

Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

The electrical panel is the heart of any home’s electrical system, controlling the flow of electricity to different circuits throughout the property. As a homeowner, it is important to have a basic understanding of your electrical panel and its components. Not only can this knowledge help you troubleshoot minor issues, it can also help you make informed decisions about repairs and upgrades.

For homeowners in East Providence, RI and the surrounding areas, B&K Electric is the go-to source for all things related to electrical panels. As a family-owned and operated business with over 17 years of experience, B&K Electric takes pride in serving the community and providing top-notch customer service. From electrical repair to panel maintenance and installation, our team of licensed electricians has the expertise and skills to handle all of your electrical needs.

In this article, we will delve deeper into one of the most commonly used and talked about electrical panels, the Federal Pacific Electrical Panel, and provide valuable insights for homeowners in East Providence and beyond. Whether you are looking to buy a new home or considering upgrading your current electrical panel, this article is a must-read for anyone looking to ensure the safety and efficiency of their home’s electrical system.

Understanding the Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

The Federal Pacific Electrical Panel, also known as FPE panel, was a popular choice for residential properties from the 1950s to the 1980s. They were mainly installed in homes during the post-World War II housing boom, as they were inexpensive and readily available. However, over time, these electrical panels have gained a notorious reputation for being a safety hazard.

The main issue with the Federal Pacific Electrical Panels is their inability to trip during an overload or short circuit. This means that in the event of an electrical fault, the circuit will not shut off, leading to overheating and an increased risk of fire. As a result, many insurance companies have flagged homes with FPE panels as a potential safety hazard and may refuse to insure them.

Identifying a Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

The first step to addressing any potential safety concerns with your electrical panel is to identify what type of panel you have in your home. A Federal Pacific Electrical Panel is usually identified by the manufacturer’s logo, which is a black and white checkered flag with the letters ‘FPE’ in bold letters. It can also be identified by the panel’s main circuit breaker, which will have a red strip with “Stab-Lok” written on it.

Another way to identify an FPE panel is to check the panel’s age. If your home was built or had its electrical panel replaced between the 1950s and 1980s, it is likely that it has an FPE panel. It is important to note that not all FPE panels are unsafe, but due to their potential safety hazards, it is recommended to have a licensed electrician inspect and test the panel.

The Risks of Having a Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

As mentioned earlier, one of the main issues with FPE panels is their inability to trip during a fault or overload. Studies have shown that FPE panels may have a failure rate of up to 60%, compared to a 1% failure rate for properly functioning electrical panels. This means that homeowners with FPE panels are at a higher risk of electrical fires and other safety hazards.

Furthermore, FPE panels have been found to have other issues such as loose connections, damaged breakers, and limited space for additional circuits. These issues can result in flickering lights, malfunctioning appliances, and even electrical shocks, posing a threat to both the safety and functionality of your home.

Replacing a Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

If you have identified that your home has a Federal Pacific Electrical Panel, it is important to take immediate action to ensure the safety of your home and your family. The only way to eliminate the risks associated with an FPE panel is to have it replaced with a newer, safer panel.

The replacement process involves a licensed electrician removing the old panel, installing a new panel, and routing the existing circuits to the new panel. It is important to note that replacing an electrical panel is a complex and potentially dangerous task that should only be carried out by a licensed electrician. Attempting to do it yourself or hiring an unqualified individual may result in further safety hazards and may also void your home insurance.

Why Choose B&K Electric for Your Electrical Panel Needs?

At B&K Electric, we understand the importance of having a safe, reliable, and efficient electrical panel for your home. Our team of licensed electricians has the expertise and experience to handle all types of electrical panels, including the Federal Pacific Electrical Panel. We offer thorough inspections, efficient replacements, and top-quality installations to ensure the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system.

We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and making sure our clients are informed and satisfied with our work. Our family-owned and operated business takes pride in serving the community and building long-lasting relationships with our customers. With B&K Electric, you can trust that your home’s electrical needs are in good hands.

Take Action to Ensure the Safety of Your Home

It is easy to overlook the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. However, as a homeowner, it is important to be proactive and address any potential safety hazards before they become major issues. If you live in the East Providence, RI area or the greater Providence Area, make B&K Electric your go-to source for all your electrical needs. From panel maintenance to repairs and installations, we have got you covered.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Electrical Panel,

Electrical Panel Replacement,

Home Safety