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

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• Outdated Technology: These panels were built decades ago and don’t meet modern safety standards.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

Understanding the Electrical Survey Requirement for Home Insulation

When it comes to home insulation, ensuring that your electrical system is up to code is crucial. If you're planning to insulate your attic, walls, or floors, you might encounter a notice like the one below. This electrical survey is not just a formality; it’s a necessary step to comply with safety regulations.

Why Is an Electrical Survey Required?

According to Article 324-4 of the National Electrical Code (NEC), 1990 Edition, and Part 3 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, a thorough electrical survey is mandatory before insulating your home. This measure is designed to protect both your home and its occupants, ensuring that the existing electrical wiring is safe and reliable.

Key Points of the Electrical Survey Notice

1. Assessment of Existing Wiring

The electrical contractor conducting the survey will evaluate your current wiring. The condition of your electrical system can significantly impact the effectiveness and safety of insulation installation. The survey will check for:

• Deterioration: Signs of wear and tear that could pose risks.

• Improper Connections or Splices: Faulty wiring can lead to electrical failures.

• Overcurrent Protection: Ensures that your system can handle the electrical load.

2. Tamperproof Protection

If you plan to install tamperproof devices to safeguard your wiring, be aware that this may require adjustments to your electrical usage methods. This is to prevent nuisance tripping of fuses, which can lead to disruptions and safety concerns.

3. Certification of Condition

Based on the survey, the contractor will certify whether your existing wiring is in good condition or requires upgrades. They will specify if any work has been done to bring the wiring up to acceptable standards, such as:

• Installing tamperproof overcurrent protection

• Updating the service panel with breakers

• Repairing faulty connections

4. Approval for Insulation Installation

Once the survey is completed and any necessary repairs are made, the areas eligible for insulation installation will be identified. This can include ceilings, floors, or walls, ensuring that your home meets safety standards before insulation work begins.

5. Filing with Local Authorities

A copy of the certification will be submitted to the local authority having jurisdiction over your area, further solidifying compliance with the relevant codes.

Conclusion

Undergoing an electrical survey before insulation may seem like an additional hurdle, but it is a vital step in safeguarding your home. By ensuring that your electrical system is up to code, you not only protect your investment but also enhance the safety and efficiency of your living environment.

If you're preparing for insulation, make sure to schedule your electrical survey and work closely with your contractor to address any issues. Your home—and your peace of mind—will thank you!

Understanding the Difference Between Hybrid and Electric Vehicles: A Step Towards Sustainable Driving

Understanding the Difference Between Hybrid and Electric Vehicles: A Step Towards Sustainable Driving

At Ally Electric and Solar, we believe in empowering our customers with knowledge, especially as we collectively march towards a more sustainable future. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, two terms that often come up in discussions about eco-friendly transportation are "hybrid" and "electric vehicles" (EVs). While both options aim to reduce our carbon footprint, they operate on different principles. In this blog post, we're here to clarify the distinctions between hybrid and electric vehicles, guiding you in making informed decisions that align with your sustainability goals.

Electric Versus HYBRID

What is a Hybrid Vehicle?

Hybrid vehicles combine a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) with one or more electric motors. These vehicles can switch between using the gasoline engine and electric power, depending on driving conditions and battery charge. The key types of hybrids include:

• Mild Hybrids: Use both an electric motor and an ICE but rely primarily on the gas engine. The electric motor provides assistance, enhancing fuel efficiency but cannot power the car on its own.

• Full Hybrids: Capable of running on the electric motor alone for short distances. They can switch seamlessly between the gasoline engine and electric motor, optimizing performance and fuel economy.

• Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs): Can be charged via an electrical outlet, allowing for longer electric-only driving ranges. They operate similarly to full hybrids but offer the flexibility of extending electric-only travels.

What is an Electric Vehicle (EV)?

Unlike hybrids, electric vehicles run entirely on electricity stored in batteries. EVs use electric motors for propulsion and do not rely on gasoline at all. This absence of combustion engines makes them a cleaner option, producing no tailpipe emissions. Key aspects of EVs include:

• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): Fully electric vehicles that must be charged from an external source. They typically have a greater range than hybrids and are designed for efficient electric driving.

• Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs): Feature small gasoline engines that act as generators to charge the battery while driving, although they primarily operate as electric vehicles.

Key Differences Between Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

1. Power Source:

1. Emissions:

1. Charging:

1. Driving Range:

Why Choose Hybrid or Electric?

Choosing between a hybrid or electric vehicle depends on your lifestyle, budget, and commitment to sustainability. If you frequently take long drives and want the flexibility of gasoline backup, a hybrid may be a better fit. However, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly vehicle that produces zero emissions and you can charge at home or work regularly, an electric vehicle may be the ideal choice.

Conclusion

At Ally Electric and Solar, we are committed to supporting our customers on their journey toward sustainable energy solutions, whether in the form of solar panel systems or electric vehicles. By understanding the differences between hybrid and electric vehicles, you are better equipped to make choices that align not only with your driving needs but also with a more sustainable future.

For more information on electric vehicle charging installation or how to make your home more energy-efficient, feel free to reach out to us. Together, we can take steps toward a greener, brighter tomorrow!



We hope this provides you with a comprehensive overview of hybrids and EVs! If you have any questions about the renewable energy technologies you can integrate into your home, we’re just a call away – on your side of solar! Please call us at 510-559-7700 or email us at msaglam@allyelectricandsolar.com