The Dangers of Federal Pacific Electric Panels (FPE) and Why You Should Replace Them

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When it comes to home safety, few things are as critical as your electrical system. One component that many homeowners might not even think about—but should— is the electrical panel. Specifically, homes equipped with Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok panels face a higher risk of electrical fires and other safety hazards. In this blog post, we'll explore why FPE panels are dangerous and why replacing them is essential for the safety of your home.

What is a Federal Pacific Electric Panel?

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a popular manufacturer of circuit breaker panels from the 1950s through the 1980s. Their Stab-Lok panels were installed in millions of homes across the United States. Unfortunately, over the years, these panels have been linked to serious safety concerns, including a high rate of failure in properly shutting off electricity during a short circuit or overload.

Federal PACIFIC PANEL

The Design Flaw: Why FPE Panels Are Dangerous

The primary issue with FPE panels lies in their circuit breakers. Normally, if there is a surge of electricity or a short circuit, a circuit breaker is supposed to "trip," cutting off the flow of electricity to prevent overheating and fires. However, FPE Stab-Lok panels have been shown to fail at tripping properly, sometimes as much as 60% of the time.

This means that, even in dangerous situations, electricity may continue to flow through the wiring, leading to overheating, potential electrical fires, and other hazardous conditions. Simply replacing the breakers does not fix the design flaw in the panel itself, leaving homes vulnerable to these risks.

Common Problems with FPE Stab-Lok Panels:

  • Breakers Fail to Trip: The most dangerous issue is the failure of breakers to trip during electrical surges, leading to overheating.

  • Overheating and Fire Hazards: With electricity continuing to flow unchecked, there’s a significantly higher risk of fire.

  • Loose Connections: Poor design can lead to loose connections within the panel, which exacerbates the fire risk.

  • Outdated Technology: These panels were built decades ago and don’t meet modern safety standards.

How to Know If Your Home Has an FPE Panel

If your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s, there’s a chance it might have a Federal Pacific Electric panel. You can check by looking at your main electrical panel—often found in garages, basements, or utility rooms—and looking for the brand name "Federal Pacific Electric" or "Stab-Lok" on the cover or the breakers.

If you’re unsure or concerned, it’s always best to have a licensed electrician inspect your panel.

Why You Should Replace Your FPE Panel

Even though FPE panels have been in homes for decades, that doesn’t mean they’re safe. The risks increase as the system ages, and continued use of an FPE panel is a serious liability. Most electricians, home inspectors, and insurance companies recommend replacing these panels due to their well-documented hazards. Many insurance companies may even deny coverage or raise premiums if they find an FPE panel in your home.

We Can Help

At Ally Electric And Solar, we specialize in electrical panel replacements, including upgrading outdated and dangerous FPE Stab-Lok panels. Our licensed and certified electricians will ensure your new panel meets current safety standards, giving you peace of mind and protecting your home from electrical hazards.

Why Choose Us?

  • Licensed and Insured: We are fully licensed, insured, and committed to providing top-quality service.

  • Safety First: We prioritize the safety of your home and your family by installing modern, reliable electrical panels.

  • Expertise: With years of experience, we know how to properly assess, replace, and upgrade electrical panels with minimal disruption to your home.

Conclusion

If your home has a Federal Pacific Electric panel, it's time to consider replacing it. The risks far outweigh the costs, and upgrading your electrical panel ensures your home meets today’s safety standards. Don’t wait until an electrical issue turns into a fire—take action now.

Contact Ally Electric And Solar today at (510) 559-7700 for a consultation and keep your home and family safe.