Federal Pacific Panels: A Warning for Homeowners in North Providence, RI

Federal Pacific Panels

If you are a homeowner in North Providence, RI, chances are you have heard of or even own a Federal Pacific Panel. As one of the most widely used electrical panels in homes across the United States, these panels were installed in millions of homes from the 1950s to the 1980s. However, despite their widespread use, Federal Pacific Panels have a dark history that poses significant safety hazards for homeowners.

As a licensed electrician and family-owned business based in Warwick, RI, B&K Electric has been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and the greater Providence area for over 17 years. Our team of experienced electricians specializes in electrical repairs, panel maintenance, and installation, and we have seen firsthand the dangers of Federal Pacific Panels.

In this article, we will dive deep into the topic of Federal Pacific Panels, including their history, potential hazards, and what homeowners in North Providence, RI, need to know about them. We believe that education is key to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community, and we hope to provide valuable information that will help homeowners make informed decisions about their electrical systems.

History of Federal Pacific Electric Company

Federal Pacific Electric Company (FPE) was founded in the late 1920s and became one of the leading manufacturers of electrical equipment in the United States. The company produced a wide range of electrical products, including circuit breakers, transformers, and electrical panels. In the 1950s, FPE introduced the Stab-Lok panel, which quickly became the go-to electrical panel for homes across the country due to its compact size and affordability.

The Dangers of Federal Pacific Panels

At first glance, Federal Pacific Panels may seem like any other electrical panel found in homes. However, what many homeowners do not realize is that these panels have a history of numerous safety issues. In a groundbreaking investigation by Consumer Reports in the 1980s, it was found that FPE circuit breakers failed to trip in the event of an overload or short circuit almost 30% of the time, posing a severe fire hazard. This defect was present in both new and old panels, putting millions of homes at risk.

In addition to this, a study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission revealed that Stab-Lok breakers have a higher risk of failure than any other brand. It was also discovered that the main breaker in these panels often fails to shut off the electricity when needed, leaving homeowners vulnerable to fires and electrocution.

Why Are Federal Pacific Panels Still in Use?

Despite these findings, Federal Pacific Panels were not recalled nor banned from being used in homes. In fact, the company went bankrupt in the 1980s and was bought by a new owner who continued to produce and sell the panels. It wasn’t until the late 1990s that the company finally went out of business, but by then, millions of these panels had already been installed in homes.

As a result, many homeowners are still living with Federal Pacific Panels, unaware of the potential hazards they pose. Furthermore, because these panels were so widely used during the 1950s – 1980s, many homeowners are not even aware that they have one in their home.

The Dangers of Ignoring Federal Pacific Panels

The most significant danger of having a Federal Pacific Panel in your home is the increased risk of an electrical fire. Faulty breakers and wiring can lead to overheating, sparking, or short circuits, all of which can ignite surrounding materials and cause a fire. Even if a breaker does trip, it may not do so fast enough, allowing the fire to spread.

Furthermore, panel maintenance and repairs can be a challenge for these panels as they are no longer in production, and finding replacement parts can be difficult. This means that if a circuit breaker fails or needs to be replaced, it may not be possible to do so, leaving the homeowner’s safety at risk.

What Homeowners Need to Know about Federal Pacific Panels

If you are a homeowner in North Providence, RI, or the greater Providence area, it is crucial to be aware of the potential hazards of Federal Pacific Panels. As licensed electricians at B&K Electric, we highly recommend that these panels be replaced with newer, safer models. It is also essential to have your panel regularly inspected and maintained by a licensed electrician to minimize the risk of fire or electrocution.

Additionally, if you are planning to purchase a home built between the 1950s and 1980s, it is essential to have a thorough inspection, including the electrical system, to ensure that it is safe and up to code. And if you do discover that you have a Federal Pacific Panel in your home, do not hesitate to contact a licensed electrician to assess and replace it.

Choose B&K Electric for Your Electrical Needs in North Providence, RI

At B&K Electric, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community by providing top-notch electrical services. As a family-owned and operated business, we understand the importance of a safe and functional electrical system in your home. Our experienced electricians have the skills and knowledge to handle any panel installation, maintenance, or repair needs you may have.

Make B&K Electric your go-to electrician in North Providence, RI, for all your residential or business electrical needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services. Remember, a properly functioning electrical system is vital for the safety of your home and loved ones.

Topics:

Federal Pacific Panels,

Electrical Safety,

Home Maintenance.