Why Replacing a Federal Pacific Panel Can Save You Trouble
Do you know that feeling when your house is secretly preparing for a fiery show? Like… seriously? Old FPE electrical panels can be real psychos among your home electronics. They serve faithfully for decades, but sometimes decide they want to work according to their own rules. So, let’s explore the Pacific electric panel’s mystery together.
What is a Federal Pacific Electrical Panel?
Federal Pacific electric panels are retro icons among electrical panels. They appeared between 1950s and 1980s, but you can still meet them in older buildings. So, what are their special features?
A metal casing whichmakes them look like a small safe;
A bunch of circuit breakers;
The FPE logo or the words “Federal Pacific”.
Yes, they look reliable, but appearances are deceptive. Sometimes they play tricks when overloaded.
Why Do Federal Pacific Electric Panels Malfunction?
Okay, but why do they behave unpredictably? The reasons are simple but dangerous:
The internal wiring of a Federal electric panel can be outdated and worn out.
The circuit breakers trip too often.
Corrosion of contacts likes to creep up unnoticed.
Incorrect installation (it’s already a problem to find out who’s guilty).
This combination easily turns your good old friend as it may seem!) into a federal pacific fire hazard. Living at the foot of an active volcano isn't the best thing in life, would you agree? Consider this to be the same thing.
How Can One Identify a Federal Pacific Electric Circuit Breaker Panel?
It's easy to identify an old Federal Pacific Electric panel:
Metal housing with the FPE log;
Circuit breakers behave strangely;
No modern safety features.
Checking the FPE electrical panel is a mandatory part of your routine: if you notice anything strange, it's time to take action.
Be careful and don’t miss the signs that the FPE panel is not working properly:
The circuit breakers trip too often;
The housing gets very hot;
Sparks or a burning smell.
If you see any of these signs, it's high time to hire a home service specialist. That’s obvious that you need FPE electrical panel replacement ASAP.
Do All Federal Pacific Panels Need To Be Replaced
Let's be honest: not any FPE panel needs to be replaced immediately. However, most experts advise not to take any chances. Even if your panel is performing adequately, there is always a risk. Here's what's at stake:
The safety of your home and family.
An old Federal electric panel may not function properly in the event of an overload, which is dangerous to life and property.
Modern overload protection.
The new panels have reliable circuit breakers. Thanks to them you can say goodbye to short circuits and overheating.
Peace of mind. That’s it.
No extra comments here.
FPE electrical panel replacement is just upgrading something very old and necessary: you're simply making life easier and (most importantly) safer.
What Are Other Circuit Breaker Panels At Risk Of A Similar Malfunction?
It's not just Federal Pacific electric panel that are at risk. Of course, there are other older models that can explode unexpectedly. Luckily, not literally (but who knows?).
Panels from other brands from the 60s and 80s and circuit breakers without modern protection are among the list. Many older brands had weak circuit breakers that lost their ability to trip during overloads over time.
Another risky home helper is a fuse panel. These panels had fuses, not the modern circuit breakers. Sometimes overload causes a spark or even a fire. So, it’s pretty clear that checking old panels is not a whim, but a necessity.
Electrical Panel Safety Inspections
Think inspections are just a formality required by law? Think again! They are a life-saving feature. Here is a checklist, follow every checkbox:
Check your Pacific electric panel every 2–3 years (but keep an eye on it constantly);
Make sure from time to time that contacts and circuit breakers are just fine;
Look for overheating or strange smells.
And if you notice anything strange, it's better not to take any chances and consider replacing your FPE electrical panel. It's better to get rid of this time bomb once and for all in favor of a more modern and safer solution, isn't it?
Need an Electrician?
If your FPE electrical panel starts acting up, don't take any chances. Our electricians with Fuse Service can help you determine whether your FPE electrical panel needs to be updated. And if necessary, they can help with replacement of Federal Pacific fire hazard quickly and easily.