DANGER: FPE Panels Should Be Replaced!
As licensed electrical contractors at Elect Electric, we want to bring a critical issue to your attention—Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels. If your home still has an FPE panel with Stab-Lok breakers, you need to know the serious hazards they pose to your home and safety. These panels have been linked to numerous electrical failures and fire hazards, and it’s crucial to replace them as soon as possible.
What Are FPE Panels?
FPE, or Federal Pacific Electric, was a popular manufacturer of electrical panels from the 1950s through the 1980s. At the time, they were widely installed in homes across the U.S., but over the years, it became evident that their panels, particularly the Stab-Lok breakers, have dangerous flaws. Unfortunately, many homes on the Central Coast and across the country still have these panels in place today.
The Danger of FPE Panels and Stab-Lok Breakers
The primary function of an electrical panel is to protect your home by tripping a breaker when there’s an electrical overload or short circuit. However, FPE panels have a critical defect—the breakers often fail to trip when they should. This means that in the event of an electrical fault, instead of cutting off power and preventing a fire, the circuit may continue to overload, increasing the risk of overheating and fire.
1. Breakers Fail to Trip
One of the most dangerous flaws in FPE Stab-Lok breakers is their failure to trip during an overload or short circuit. When a breaker doesn’t trip, the wires and circuits in your home can overheat, which leads to an increased risk of electrical fires. In tests conducted by independent agencies, it was found that FPE breakers failed to trip more than 25% of the time when they should have, making them unreliable and hazardous.
2. Panel Components Can Overheat
FPE panels and their Stab-Lok breakers are also prone to overheating within the panel itself. The poor design of the breaker-to-bus connection often causes arcing, where electricity jumps from one connection to another, generating intense heat. This can result in melted breakers or wires inside the panel, which is not only a fire hazard but can also cause electrical shocks or other issues in your home’s wiring system.
3. Breakers Can Become Permanently “ON”
In some cases, FPE breakers may appear to be turned off, but they are actually still conducting electricity. This false sense of security can be incredibly dangerous if you believe a circuit is off when it is still live. This poses a significant risk when homeowners or electricians attempt to work on a circuit they think has been de-energized.
The FPE Recall and Why It Matters
Despite the serious safety concerns, Federal Pacific never issued an official recall for their panels. However, numerous safety organizations and experts have strongly advised homeowners to replace FPE panels. Court cases and independent studies have shown that FPE panels do not meet modern safety standards, and many insurance companies refuse to cover homes with FPE panels due to the increased risk of electrical fires.
Signs You May Have an FPE Panel
If you’re unsure whether your home has a Federal Pacific Electric panel, here are some things to look for:
• FPE or Federal Pacific is clearly labeled on the panel door.
• You notice Stab-Lok printed on the breakers themselves.
• Your panel looks old and outdated, with breakers that have a red background and seem loose or difficult to reset.
If you see any of these signs, it’s time to take action and have your panel inspected by a licensed electrician.
Why You Should Replace Your FPE Panel ASAP
The risks associated with FPE panels are well-documented and simply too great to ignore. A malfunctioning electrical panel can lead to catastrophic damage, including house fires, property loss, and even life-threatening situations. Replacing your FPE panel will bring your home up to current electrical safety standards and give you peace of mind that your home is protected.
The Replacement Process
At Elect Electric, we specialize in replacing outdated and dangerous electrical panels. Here’s how the process works:
1. Initial Inspection: We’ll conduct a thorough inspection of your electrical system and confirm whether you have an FPE panel.
2. Panel Replacement Estimate: We’ll provide a detailed estimate for replacing your old FPE panel with a modern, safe alternative that can handle your home’s electrical demands.
3. Permit and Installation: We’ll handle the necessary permits and coordinate with the utility company to safely disconnect and install your new panel. The process is typically completed in one day.
4. Final Inspection: After installation, we’ll arrange for a local inspector to approve the work, ensuring everything is up to code.
Peace of Mind with a New Electrical Panel
Upgrading to a modern panel will not only eliminate the safety risks associated with FPE panels but also provide your home with additional electrical capacity to handle modern appliances and devices. A new panel ensures:
• Proper Breaker Functionality: Your new breakers will trip reliably in the event of an overload or fault.
• Enhanced Fire Safety: Modern panels are designed to meet strict safety codes, reducing the risk of electrical fires.
• Increased Home Value: Many home buyers and insurance companies look for homes with up-to-date electrical systems. Replacing your FPE panel can increase your home’s value and make it easier to sell.
Take Action Today
If your home still has a Federal Pacific Electric panel, don’t wait until it’s too late. The risks are real, and the consequences can be devastating. At Elect Electric, we’re here to help protect your home and your family by replacing your outdated FPE panel with a safe, modern system.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward ensuring your home’s electrical safety!
About the Authors:
This blog post was originally written by ChatGPT prompted by Daniel Ehinger, an experienced electrician dedicated to promoting electrical safety and best practices. The content was edited and enhanced by Daniel Ehinger, who provided valuable insights and improvements to ensure accuracy, clarity and readability.
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