Stay Safe: Dangerous Risks of Federal Pacific Panels

Federal Pacific Panel

As homeowners, we often take for granted the complexities of our home’s electrical system. We rely on it every day, turning on lights, charging our devices, and powering our appliances without a second thought. However, what many homeowners in the 02910 Cranston Providence zip code may not be aware of is the potential danger lurking within their walls – a Federal Pacific Panel.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business located in nearby Warwick, RI, has been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. Our electricians specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us the go-to choice for any electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area. We understand the importance of a safe and functional electrical system in your home or business, and we are dedicated to providing top-notch service to our valued customers.

But what exactly is a Federal Pacific Panel, and why should you be concerned if you have one in your home? In this article, we will dive into the history of these notorious panels, the dangers they pose, and why it is crucial to have a professional electrician like B&K Electric take care of any concerns you may have.

The History of Federal Pacific Panels

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of electrical panels from the 1950s to the 1980s. At that time, they were installed in millions of homes across North America, accounting for nearly 60% of breakers in residential electrical panels. However, they were eventually found to be faulty and dangerous, and the company closed in 1980.

The main issue with Federal Pacific Panels is their lack of proper safety mechanisms. In simple terms, the breakers within the panels are supposed to trip when there is an overload or short circuit, cutting off the flow of electricity. However, in FPE panels, the breakers often fail to trip, leading to potential electrical fires and other safety hazards.

The Controversy and Potential Dangers

The controversy surrounding Federal Pacific Panels dates back to the 1980s when a report was released by Joseph F. Klimas, a former Chief Engineer at Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a non-profit safety organization. Klimas found major discrepancies in testing data for FPE panels, leading to UL revoking their listing of the panels as safe for use. Despite this, FPE continued to sell and install their panels until the company went bankrupt in 1980.

In the years since, it has been estimated that there have been thousands of house fires caused by Federal Pacific Panels. Some experts claim that these panels are responsible for more than 2,000 fires and over 100 deaths. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has stated that FPE panels have a failure rate 10 times higher than other panels, making them a serious safety concern for homeowners.

Aside from the potential for electrical fires, FPE panels can also pose a risk of electrocution. Faulty breakers can allow for an uncontrolled flow of electricity, leading to dangerous situations for homeowners and their families.

Why You Need a Professional Electrician to Take Care of Your FPE Panel

As a homeowner, you may be wondering what steps you should take if you suspect you have a Federal Pacific Panel in your home. The most important thing to remember is to never attempt to inspect or fix the panel yourself. Only a licensed and experienced professional electrician, such as those at B&K Electric, should handle any concerns you have regarding your electrical system.

Attempting to fix or replace the panel yourself can be extremely dangerous and should never be attempted. It is crucial to have a professional inspect and make any necessary repairs to ensure the safety and functionality of your electrical system.

In addition to the safety concerns, homeowners with FPE panels may also face issues with their homeowners insurance. Many insurance companies require homeowners to have the panel removed and replaced by a professional due to the potential risks associated with FPE panels. Failure to do so may result in a voided policy or higher premiums.

B&K Electric – Your Trusted and Experienced Electricians

When it comes to your home’s electrical system, safety is of the utmost importance. That’s why it is essential to have a professional and experienced electrician, like those at B&K Electric, take care of any concerns you may have. Our team of licensed electricians has the knowledge and expertise to diagnose any issues and provide top-notch service to keep your home and family safe.

We understand the inconvenience and potential stress involved with any electrical repairs or maintenance, which is why we strive to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible. As a family-owned and operated business, we take pride in our commitment to community and customer service, ensuring that our customers receive the highest level of care and satisfaction.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to address any concerns about your Federal Pacific Panel. Trust B&K Electric, your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or for more information on our services.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panel,

Electrical Safety,

Professional Electrician