Federal Pacific Electric Panels: Understanding the Hazards and Ensuring Safety

From the 1950s to the 1980s, Federal Pacific Electric Panels were widely used in North America as circuit breaker panels and were installed in millions of homes and businesses across the country. Despite their prevalence, electricians and inspectors have frequently discovered that these panels do not adequately safeguard properties, whether residential or commercial, as time goes on. Experts caution that although these panels may seem to function correctly for an extended period, a single over-current or short circuit can cause them to overheat and pose a fire risk.

This article aims to investigate the potential dangers associated with Federal Pacific Electric Panels and provide guidance on ensuring the safety of your household.

What Are Federal Pacific Electric Panels?

Federal Pacific Electric Panels refer to circuit breaker panels manufactured by the Federal Pacific Electric Company during the mid-1950s until the 1980s, and were widely installed in homes and businesses throughout North America. Nonetheless, experts advise that these panels may not meet current safety standards and may be prohibited from public sale. What was once deemed acceptable safety criteria in the past is now considered unsafe.

The Hazards of Federal Pacific Electric Panels

Federal Pacific Electric Panels might seem to function correctly for years, but experts caution that they could potentially become a fire hazard if they experience an overcurrent or short circuit, which may cause electrical circuits to overheat. In a legal case, a New Jersey State Court declared that the Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Company broke the Consumer Fraud Act by knowingly distributing circuit breakers that were not tested to meet UL standards. A specialist who examined the potential risks of Federal Pacific Electric Panels concluded that under UL 489 test conditions, FPE panels fail to trip at a considerably higher frequency than regular panels.

Damage Caused by Federal Pacific Electric Panels

Federal Pacific Electric Panels may become a fire hazard if they experience an overcurrent or short circuit, as they may not be able to prevent electrical circuits from overheating. Research shows that some Federal Pacific Electric Panels failed to function correctly around 60% of the time during power surges. When the circuit breakers do not work correctly, an enormous amount of power from the outside electrical source floods the panel and circuits. This cannot be manually stopped or turned off, and the electricity will continue to burn until the wires melt or run out of fuel. As a result, the panel might overheat and ignite, causing severe harm to residences and businesses, and potentially harming those inside.

Why Do Federal Pacific Electric Panels Malfunction?

The circuit breaker panel is a crucial component of the electrical system, as it continuously distributes and receives electricity while safeguarding against potential hazards such as power surges. However, experts warn of three significant risks associated with Federal Pacific Electric Panels: not meeting current safety codes, major design flaws, and manufacturing defects.

Federal Pacific Electric Panels may not comply with current safety codes due to issues like overcrowded wiring within the panel box, spring-mounted bus bars, and active breakers when in the down position. Additionally, split-bus breakers may no longer meet updated safety standards.

Design flaws in Federal Pacific Electric Panels include breakers that trip unexpectedly when the dead-front cover is removed, loose connections to the bus bars, jammed breakers leading to overcrowding, and easily split breakers.

Moreover, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), using UL489 test conditions, Federal Pacific Electric Panels may have manufacturing defects. The materials used to construct the breakers could be substandard, causing them to malfunction and increasing the likelihood of a fire.

How Should This Problem Be Addressed?

To ensure your safety, it’s crucial to have a licensed electrical contractor inspect your circuit breaker panel, especially if you suspect it’s a Federal Pacific Electric Panel or any outdated model. A professional can assess the safety of your panel and suggest appropriate solutions. Routine maintenance by a licensed electrician is vital to ensure today’s electrical panels function correctly.

If your panel is identified as a safety hazard, it’s highly recommended to replace it with a newer, safer model that meets current safety codes and standards. An experienced electrician can guide you in selecting a suitable replacement panel. Keep in mind that certain insurance companies might not cover properties with outdated panels, including Federal Pacific Electric Panels. If you’re experiencing issues with insurance coverage, upgrading your panel may be necessary.

How Lighthouse Can Help

At Lighthouse LLC, we offer services to change outdated panels and provide inspections to give clients the ability safely update electrical products. Our licensed electricians can assess the safety of your electrical panel and provide recommendations for necessary upgrades or replacements. We can also provide guidance on choosing a replacement panel that meets current safety standards and code requirements. Contact us today for a consultation