Federal Pacific Electric Panel: A Warning for Homeowners in North Providence, Rhode Island

Federal Pacific Electric Panel

As a homeowner in zip code 02904 North Providence, Rhode Island, you take pride in maintaining and upgrading your property. From landscaping to interior design, every aspect of your home is carefully curated to create a comfortable and safe environment for you and your family. However, there is one area that often goes unnoticed – the electrical panel.

While it may seem like a simple box on the wall, the electrical panel is actually a crucial component of your home’s electrical system. It controls the flow of electricity throughout your home and ensures that your appliances and devices receive the right amount of power. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the type of panel you have in your home.

If you live in an older home, there is a possibility that your electrical panel is a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel. FPE panels were popular in the 1950s and 1960s and were installed in millions of homes across the United States. However, in recent years, they have gained notoriety for their potential danger and faulty designs.

At B&K Electric, we specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. With over seventeen years of experience, our family-owned and operated business has proudly served the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island. In this article, we will delve into the controversy surrounding FPE panels and why it’s important to have them replaced by a licensed electrician.

Understanding FPE Panels

FPE panels were manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company, which was in business from the 1950s to the 1980s. At the time, these panels were seen as a cost-effective option for homebuilders. However, it was discovered that FPE panels were not built to the same safety standards as other electrical panels on the market.

One of the major flaws with FPE panels is their design. The breakers within the panel are known to fail to trip during power surges or overloads, which can result in electrical fires. They have also been found to overheat and melt, posing a serious risk to the safety of the homeowner and their property.

The Controversy Surrounding FPE Panels

The potential dangers of FPE panels were first brought to light in the 1980s when a class-action lawsuit was filed against the manufacturer. The lawsuit alleged that FPE panels were responsible for several electrical fires and deaths. However, the case was eventually settled out of court, and the company went out of business.

Despite being out of business for several decades, FPE panels are still found in many homes, with estimates of up to 28 million still in use across the United States. This is due to the fact that the company was never ordered to issue a recall or alert homeowners that their panels may be hazardous.

In fact, it wasn’t until the 1990s that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) conducted an investigation into FPE panels. The results were inconclusive, but the CPSC did advise homeowners to have their panels inspected by a licensed electrician.

Why You Should Replace Your FPE Panel

As a homeowner in North Providence, Rhode Island, it’s crucial to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of your home and family. If you have an FPE panel, it’s important to have it replaced by a licensed electrician as soon as possible. Here’s why:

1. Safety Concerns

The most pressing reason to replace your FPE panel is the risk of electrical fires and safety hazards. While modern electrical panels are built to trip quickly in the event of an overload, FPE panels are known to fail in this regard. This puts you and your family at risk of fire and electrocution.

Additionally, if you have an FPE panel, it may be preventing you from obtaining home insurance or making it difficult to sell your home. Most insurance companies require proof of a safe and updated electrical panel for coverage, and many home inspectors will alert potential buyers of the hazard.

2. Outdated Technology

Aside from the safety hazards, FPE panels are simply outdated. With the advancements in technology and electrical safety standards, FPE panels no longer meet the requirements for a modern home. By replacing your FPE panel, you ensure that your home is up to code and equipped with the latest safety features.

3. Increased Property Value

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the future, replacing your FPE panel can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers. They will have peace of mind knowing that their new home is equipped with a modern and safe electrical panel.

4. Lower Energy Bills

FPE panels do not have the technological capabilities to accurately regulate electrical flow, resulting in higher energy bills. By replacing your panel, you ensure that your appliances and devices are receiving the correct amount of power, ultimately saving you money on your energy bills.

Trust B&K Electric for Your Panel Replacement Needs

As the owner of a residential property, it’s your responsibility to ensure the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. That’s where we come in. At B&K Electric, we are dedicated to providing high-quality electrical services, including panel maintenance and replacement.

Our team of licensed electricians has the expertise and experience to safely and efficiently replace your FPE panel with a modern and reliable option. We understand the importance of a functioning electrical system and will work with you to ensure minimal disruption to your daily routine.

Don’t put your home and family at risk by ignoring the potential dangers of an FPE panel. Contact B&K Electric today for a consultation and let us help you keep your home safe and up to code.

Topics:

FPE panels,

electrical safety,

panel replacement