Providence Homeowners, Know Your Federal Pacific Panel

Federal Pacific Breaker Panel

As a homeowner in downtown Providence, Rhode Island (zip code 02903), you understand the importance of maintaining your property to ensure safety and functionality for you and your family. From regular home maintenance to major renovations, there are many tasks that need to be taken care of to keep your home in top shape.

One aspect of home maintenance that is often overlooked is the electrical panel, specifically the Federal Pacific breaker panel. This essential component is responsible for distributing electricity throughout your home and is often taken for granted until an issue arises. In this article, we will delve into the world of Federal Pacific breaker panels, highlighting their history, potential hazards, and the importance of having them professionally serviced by a licensed electrician.

B&K Electric: Your Go-To Electrician in Providence and Warwick, RI

If you are a homeowner in the Providence or Warwick area, count yourself lucky to have access to one of the most reputable electrical businesses in Rhode Island – B&K Electric. With over 17 years of experience, B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated business that prides itself on providing top-notch electrical services to its community. Specializing in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, B&K Electric has built a reputation for delivering quality work and exceptional customer service.

As a homeowner, it is critical to have a trusted electrician on your side, especially when dealing with complex components such as the Federal Pacific breaker panel. B&K Electric understands the importance of this task and has a team of licensed and experienced electricians who are ready to serve you. Make B&K Electric your go-to electrician for all your residential and business electrical needs in the Warwick and Providence areas.

The Controversial History of Federal Pacific Breaker Panels

Before delving into the potential hazards of Federal Pacific breaker panels, it is essential to understand their history. In the 1950s and 1960s, Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was one of the leading manufacturers of circuit breakers in the United States. These panels were widely used in residential and commercial buildings due to their affordability and ease of installation.

However, in the early 1980s, FPE was the subject of a series of investigations and lawsuits concerning the safety of their circuit breakers. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) conducted a study that revealed alarming results – 1 in 4 FPE circuit breakers were not functioning correctly, causing a high risk of fire hazards. As a result, FPE shut down operations by the mid-1980s and was declared bankrupt in 2005.

Potential Hazards of Federal Pacific Breaker Panels

Given the alarming findings by the CPSC, it is clear that Federal Pacific breaker panels pose a significant risk to homeowners. One of the main reasons for their high potential hazards is their design. Unlike modern circuit breakers, FPE panels have a unique bus bar design that causes several issues.

First, the bus bar is constructed with an aluminum alloy that is more prone to expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. This results in a loose connection between the breaker and bus bar, leading to potential electrical fires. Second, the panels have been known to have difficulty shutting off power in case of an overload, increasing the risk of short circuits and sparks.

Furthermore, FPE panels were not correctly labeled and did not meet the standards set by the UL (Underwriters Laboratories). In fact, many panels that were supposedly UL Listed were found to be counterfeit and did not undergo proper testing and certification.

The Importance of Professional Maintenance and Servicing

After understanding the potential hazards of Federal Pacific breaker panels, the importance of having them professionally serviced becomes paramount. As a homeowner, it is crucial to have your electrical panel inspected and maintained regularly by a licensed electrician. This is especially important if you have an FPE panel installed in your home.

A professional electrician will be able to thoroughly inspect your panel and identify any issues or potential hazards. They will also be able to replace any damaged or faulty breakers and make necessary upgrades to ensure the safety and functionality of your electrical system. A licensed electrician will also be able to properly label your panel according to the current electrical code, making it easier to identify and shut off the power in case of an emergency.

In addition, if your home has an FPE panel, it is highly recommended to have it replaced with a newer and safer panel as soon as possible. A licensed electrician will be able to guide you in selecting the best panel for your home and ensure a proper installation.

As a homeowner in Providence or Warwick, RI, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards of Federal Pacific breaker panels. These panels, which were once popular due to their affordability and easy installation, have been found to pose significant safety risks. It is crucial to have your panel regularly inspected and maintained by a licensed electrician, and if you have an FPE panel, it is recommended to replace it with a newer, safer model. B&K Electric is your trusted and experienced electrician in the Warwick and Providence areas, ready to assist you with all your electrical needs.

Topics:

Federal Pacific breaker panels,

electrical panel maintenance,

licensed electrician