Warning: Fire Risk in Warwick and Cranston Homes | B&K Electric

Federal Pacific Electrical Panels

Located in zip code 02907, Cranston in Providence, Rhode Island is a beautiful suburban town known for its charming neighborhoods and close-knit community. However, like any other town, Cranston and its neighboring city of Warwick are not exempt from potential hazards, especially when it comes to the safety of your home.

One such potential hazard that homeowners in the area need to be aware of is the presence of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels in their homes. As licensed electricians with over seventeen years of experience serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and the greater Providence area, we at B&K Electric have seen firsthand the danger and consequences of these outdated and faulty electrical panels.

At B&K Electric, we take pride in being a family-owned and operated business rooted in community and providing exceptional customer service. Our team of dedicated and licensed electricians has been serving the residents of Cranston and Warwick for years, making us the go-to electrician for all your electrical needs.

But what exactly are Federal Pacific Electrical Panels and why should homeowners be concerned about them? In this article, we will delve into the history and potential hazards of these panels, as well as discuss the importance of regular panel maintenance and the benefits of installing a new, modern electrical panel.

What Are Federal Pacific Electrical Panels?

Federal Pacific Electrical Panels, also known as FPE panels, were widely used in residential homes from the 1950s to the 1980s. These electrical panels were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company and were installed in millions of homes across the United States.

At the time, FPE panels were widely accepted and considered a reliable and economical choice for homeowners. However, their faulty design and lack of proper safety mechanisms have since been exposed, leading to their discontinuation in the 1980s.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels

Studies have shown that FPE panels have a high likelihood of malfunctioning, particularly in situations of overloading or overheating. This is due to a design flaw in the breakers, which are responsible for regulating the flow of electrical current in your home.

In fact, research has shown that FPE panels have a higher rate of malfunction than any other electrical panel brand on the market. These malfunctions can range from tripping breakers, to excessive heat buildup, and in severe cases, electrical fires.

Compounding the issue is the fact that FPE panels are no longer manufactured, meaning that replacement parts are difficult to come by. This can result in delayed repairs and increased costs for homeowners.

Moreover, FPE panels do not have proper safety mechanisms in place, such as ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) and arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCI), which are now standard features in modern electrical panels. These safety mechanisms are crucial in preventing electrical hazards and ensuring the safety of your home and family.

The Importance of Regular Panel Maintenance

For homeowners in Cranston and Warwick, it is crucial to regularly inspect and maintain your electrical panel, especially if it is an FPE panel. This can help identify any potential issues before they escalate and ensure that your panel is operating safely and efficiently.

At B&K Electric, our team of licensed electricians is well-equipped to provide thorough panel maintenance, including a detailed inspection and testing of all components, as well as any necessary repairs or replacements.

We strongly advise against attempting to inspect or make repairs to your electrical panel on your own. Not only is it dangerous for those without proper training and experience, but it can also void any warranties on your panel and potentially cause further damage.

Benefits of Installing a New, Modern Electrical Panel

With FPE panels being discontinued and known to pose a potential hazard, it is highly recommended for homeowners in Cranston and Warwick to replace their panels with a new, modern electrical panel.

Modern electrical panels come with advanced safety features and are designed to handle the demands of today’s electrical usage. This can greatly reduce the risk of electrical hazards and provide peace of mind for homeowners.

Moreover, new electrical panels are equipped with smart technology, allowing you to monitor your energy usage and make adjustments to save on your electricity bill. They are also more visually appealing and can potentially increase the value of your home.

Homeowners in Cranston and Warwick should be aware of the potential hazards of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of their homes and families. This includes regular panel maintenance and, if needed, installing a new, modern electrical panel. At B&K Electric, we are here to assist you every step of the way and make your home a safer place.

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