If Your Electrical Panel Looks Like This, Watch Out!

August 28, 2023

If your panel has orange-handled breakers like this, read on...

The Hidden Danger Lurking in Your Home: Federal Pacific Breaker Panels

Your home's electrical system is the backbone of modern living, powering everything from your lights and appliances to your gadgets and heating/cooling systems. But what if your electrical system harbors a hidden danger that could jeopardize your safety? This is precisely the case with Federal Pacific breaker panels.

What are Federal Pacific Breaker Panels?

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was a manufacturer of electrical panels and circuit breakers popular in North America during the mid-20th century. Unfortunately, over time, these panels have gained notoriety for their safety issues, particularly the Stab-Lok circuit breakers they contained.

The Problem with Stab-Lok Breakers

The primary issue with Federal Pacific breaker panels revolves around their Stab-Lok circuit breakers. These breakers were designed to trip and disconnect electrical circuits when overcurrent or short circuits occurred. However, extensive research and testing have shown that Stab-Lok breakers often fail to do their job effectively.

1. Breaker Failure: One of the most concerning issues with Stab-Lok breakers is their tendency to fail to trip when they should. This means that in the event of an electrical overload or short circuit, the breaker might not disconnect the power as intended, posing a significant fire hazard.

2. Fire Risk: Due to their poor tripping performance, Federal Pacific breaker panels have been linked to a higher risk of electrical fires. When these breakers fail to trip, the excessive electrical load can generate heat, causing wires to melt and ignite nearby flammable materials.

3. Lack of Certification:  FPE lost its UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification for Stab-Lok breakers in the 1980s. This loss of certification further highlights the safety concerns surrounding these panels. Some insurance companies will not even insure a home with these panels today.

4. Aging Panels: Federal Pacific panels are now quite old, and aging components can exacerbate safety issues. Over time, the circuit breakers and connections within these panels can deteriorate, increasing the risk of malfunctions and electrical hazards.

What Should You Do If You Have a Federal Pacific Panel?

If your home still has a Federal Pacific breaker panel, it's crucial to take action:

1. Have it inspected by a qualified electrician: A professional electrician can evaluate the condition of the panel and its breakers, identifying any potential hazards.

2. Consider replacement: In many cases, the best course of action is to replace the Federal Pacific panel with a modern, safer electrical panel. This investment in your home's safety is well worth it, considering the potential risks associated with these panels.  

Your safety and peace of mind are priceless. Call us today at 940-390-7606 and we will send out one of our professionals to evaluate your panel and present you with the options you need.


December 15, 2023
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December 8, 2023
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December 1, 2023
November 24, 2023
While we are an electrical service company, we also realize that many DIYers will be working on their home’s electrical system. Please always use caution when inspecting or repairing any electrical items in the house, and if you are unsure about what to do, please call us and we will be glad to help. No matter what the repair is, make sure the power is off to the item you are working on, and use the correct tools for the job. This article lists some of the tools you or that DIYer you love might need to get the job done safely and correctly. 1. A non-contact voltage tester ($10-30) This quickly (and non-invasively) checks if a circuit is live or not. It's an important safety tool to ensure that electrical circuits are de-energized before working on them. Just because the breaker is off, does not mean there is no power to it. Always double-check with one of these. 2. Multimeter ($35-100) This is for measuring voltage, current, and resistance. It is essential for diagnosing electrical issues and testing circuits. It can be used for the home or for DC current—like cars, boats, etc. 3. Circuit Breaker Finder ($50-100) Many homes do not have their breakers labeled at the panel. This tool helps you identify which breaker goes to which room--much better than yelling across the house! 4. Wire Stripper/Cutter ($10-20) These are for cleanly and safely stripping and cutting wires. Different sizes of wire strippers might be needed for various wire gauges, but most cover several ranges of wire size. The most common wire strippers work on 5-7 different wire sizes. The right tools can make the job easier and safer and can lead to a much better result. These 4 items are just a few of the many tools that help anyone working on electricity. If you have questions or maybe have a job that is a little too big to handle, give us a call at (940) 390-7606 and we will be glad to help.
November 16, 2023
(940) 390-7606
November 10, 2023
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and festivity. However, amid the twinkling lights and cheerful decorations, there lurks a silent danger that often goes unnoticed – electrical hazards. From overloading circuits to poorly maintained decorations, the festive spirit can inadvertently lead to tragic consequences. One of the primary culprits contributing to electrical dangers during the holidays is the excessive use of extension cords and power strips . With a myriad of devices vying for power, it's not uncommon for individuals to overload circuits, creating a breeding ground for electrical fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), holiday-related electrical fires result in an annual average of $10 million in property damage. String lights, a hallmark of holiday decorations, pose a significant risk if not handled properly. Frayed wires, damaged sockets, or using lights that are not rated for outdoor use can lead to electrical shocks and fires. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports an alarming increase in emergency room visits during the holiday season due to injuries caused by faulty holiday lighting, emphasizing the need for vigilance. In addition to property damage, the toll on human lives due to electrical hazards during the holidays is staggering. The U.S. Fire Administration estimates an average of 160 injuries and 10 fatalities annually related to holiday decorations . These heart-wrenching statistics underscore the importance of taking precautions to ensure the safety of both homes and loved ones. To limit these risks, it's crucial to inspect all decorations before use, looking for signs of wear and tear. Replace any damaged lights or cords immediately. Furthermore, avoid overloading outlets and invest in high-quality extension cords with surge protection. Educating yourself and family members about the potential dangers is an essential step in preventing accidents. Promoting responsible electrical practices during the holidays can significantly reduce the likelihood of injuries and fatalities. This includes turning off decorations before bedtime or when leaving the house to prevent fires from unattended electrical devices. While the holiday season is synonymous with warmth and joy, it's essential to be aware of the electrical dangers that can lurk beneath the surface. By taking simple precautions, such as regular inspections, responsible use of electrical outlets, and investing in quality products, we can ensure that our celebrations remain festive and safe for everyone. We’d love to help you with your holiday or non-holiday electrical needs. Call us at (940) 390-7606 today and let’s get started on your project!
October 28, 2023
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October 20, 2023
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