The Importance of Maintaining Federal Pacific Panels

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

As a homeowner in zip code 02903 in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island, it is important to understand the electrical system in your home. Your home’s electrical panel is the central hub that controls the distribution of electricity to your appliances, lights, and other household electronics. It is responsible for keeping your home’s electrical system functioning properly and safely. With a dependable and reliable electrical system, you can enjoy the comforts of modern living without any worries.

However, many homeowners are unaware of the potential hazards associated with outdated and malfunctioning electrical panels. One of the most common brands of electrical panels that are known for safety concerns and outdated technology is the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel.

At B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, we have seen first-hand the consequences of not maintaining or updating outdated electrical panels. We have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years, specializing in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. As a licensed electrician, we understand the importance and safety concerns that come with outdated electrical panels and the potential risks it poses for homeowners.

In this article, we will delve into the details of the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel, its history, potential hazards, and the importance of regular maintenance for the safety of your home and family.

History of the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

The Federal Pacific Electric Company, also known as FPE, manufactured and distributed electrical panels and other electrical equipment from the 1950s to the 1980s. They were one of the leading manufacturers of electrical panels during that time and their products were widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

However, in the 1980s, concerns began to arise about the safety and functionality of the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel. It was discovered that these panels had a higher than average failure rate, causing them to not trip during an overload or short circuit. This meant that they were not providing proper protection from electrical hazards such as electrical fires, shocks, and electrocution.

In 1982, a study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) revealed that FPE circuit breakers had a failure rate of 25%, while the industry standard is less than 1%. Due to this alarming finding, the CPSC urged FPE to recall their panels, but the company refused, stating that their breakers met UL (Underwriters Laboratories) safety standards.

Despite this, many experts believe that FPE panels are unsafe and pose a potential risk to homeowners. In fact, the CPSC claims that 80% of FPE panels eventually fail to provide adequate protection.

Potential Hazards of the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

The main concern with the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel is its failure to trip during an overload or short circuit. This means that the breaker will not shut off the power to the circuit, which can lead to overheating, sparks, and potentially fires.

Another concern is the poor design and construction of the breakers. FPE breakers have a unique design that can lead to improper connection with the bus bar, causing arcing and overheating. This can result in serious damage to the electrical system and can increase the risk of electrical fires.

Furthermore, FPE panels have been known to cause power surges, which can affect your electronic devices and cause damage to appliances and other electronic equipment in your home.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

As a homeowner in Rhode Island, it is crucial to have your electrical panel regularly inspected and maintained by a licensed electrician. This is especially important if you have a Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel in your home.

Regular maintenance can help identify any potential hazards and allow for necessary repairs and updates to be made before any serious incidents occur. It can also ensure that your electrical panel is functioning properly and efficiently, providing reliable and safe electricity to your home.

In addition, regular maintenance can also help extend the lifespan of your electrical panel and prevent unexpected breakdowns, which can be costly to repair.

What to Do if You Have a Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel

If you suspect that your home has a Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel, the first step is to have it inspected by a licensed electrician. They will be able to determine if your panel is a potential hazard and recommend the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your home and family.

In most cases, it is recommended to replace the Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel with a more reliable and up-to-date electrical panel. This will not only eliminate the potential hazards that come with the outdated panel, but also provide more efficient and reliable electricity for your home.

In Conclusion

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panels have been a cause for concern among homeowners for decades. With a high failure rate and potential hazards, it is important to have your panel regularly inspected and maintained by a licensed electrician.

At B&K Electric, we understand the safety concerns that come with outdated and malfunctioning electrical panels, and we are dedicated to protecting your home and family through expert electrical services. Make us your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Circuit Breaker Panel,

potential hazards,

regular maintenance.