Are Federal Pacific Panels Safe?
The Hidden Dangers of Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok® Panels and Breakers
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) manufactured Stab-Lok® panelboards and breakers that were widely used in residential and commercial buildings from 1950 to 1990. Despite their prevalence, these products pose significant safety risks. In this blog post, we will explore the issues associated with FPE Stab-Lok® breakers, identify how to recognize them in your home, and discuss the steps homeowners should take to mitigate these dangers.
Issues with FPE Stab-Lok® Breakers
1. Failure to Trip
Circuit breakers are designed to prevent fires by tripping during electrical abnormalities. However, tests by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and independent engineers found that many Stab-Lok® breakers fail to trip as required by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards. These breakers can jam in the "on" position, causing overheating and increasing the risk of fire.
2. Overheating
Additional issues have been found with the panelboard's internal bus connections, which can also overheat and pose a fire hazard. This overheating can occur even under normal electrical loads, further increasing the risk of fire.
3. Fraudulent Safety Certification
In 2002, a New Jersey class-action lawsuit revealed that FPE had fraudulently labeled Stab-Lok® breakers as meeting UL standards when they did not. This meant the breakers were never verified as suitable for their intended use and were non-compliant with National Electrical Code (NEC) standards. Homeowners unknowingly installed these non-compliant breakers, believing they were safe.
4. Fire Hazard
FPE panels are estimated to be responsible for approximately 2,800 fires annually, making up 2-3% of all residential fires in the United States. The high failure rate of these panels during electrical faults is a significant fire risk, posing a constant danger to homes with these installations.
5. Insurance Issues
Due to the high risk of fire, most insurance companies refuse to cover homes with FPE panels. This complicates homeowners' ability to secure necessary insurance, potentially leaving them financially vulnerable in the event of a fire.
6. No Ground Wire
FPE panels lack a ground wire, making them more susceptible to power surges and overloads. This deficiency increases the likelihood of electrical failures and fire hazards, further emphasizing the need for replacement.
7. Moisture Sensitivity
FPE breakers may fail to trip correctly when moisture is detected near an outlet, leading to potential circuit overloads and fires. This moisture sensitivity makes these panels particularly dangerous in areas prone to high humidity or water exposure.
Identifying FPE Panels
To determine if your home has an FPE panel, look for the following indicators:
- The FPE logo on the panel
- Labels stating "Federal Pacific" or "Federal Pacific Electric Company"
- Breakers labeled "Stab-Lok®"
If these indicators are not present, it is advisable to consult a professional electrician for an inspection. Never attempt to disassemble or open the panel yourself, as this could damage the wiring or cause electrocution.
Recommendations for Homeowners
1. Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor
Have a licensed electrical contractor inspect your electrical system to determine if FPE Stab-Lok® breakers and panelboards are in use. Professional inspection is crucial for accurate identification and assessment of the risks associated with these panels.
2. Complete Replacement
If an FPE Stab-Lok® panel is found, replace the entire panelboard and breakers with new, compliant equipment. This ensures your electrical system meets current safety standards and reduces fire risks. While this might seem like a significant investment, it is essential for the safety of your home and family.
3. Upgrade for Compliance
Ensure the new panel complies with current NEC standards. Replacing the entire panel is preferable to only replacing the breakers, as defects involve both the breakers and the central unit. A compliant electrical system not only enhances safety but also ensures your home meets modern standards, potentially increasing its resale value.
Investigation into FPE Panels
The CPSC initiated an investigation into FPE circuit breakers in June 1980, prompted by reports from Reliance Electric Co., the parent company of FPE, that many FPE circuit breakers did not fully comply with UL requirements. The CPSC's tests confirmed that these breakers failed certain UL calibration tests designed to ensure that circuit breakers hold the current for which they are rated and trip under overload conditions. However, despite these findings, the CPSC closed the investigation in 1983 without determining that the breakers posed a serious risk to consumers. The decision was based on the insufficient data available to link the failures to hazardous situations, and the high cost of further investigation given the Commission’s limited budget and competing priorities.
While the CPSC did not conclusively determine the safety risks, they advised consumers to take several safety precautions with all circuit breakers and fuses:
- Know your electrical circuit and avoid overloading it.
- Comply with local building codes and ensure proper wiring and devices are used.
- Disconnect any electrical product if problems develop and have it examined by a competent repair person.
- Investigate the reasons for blown fuses or tripped breakers rather than simply replacing them.
For more information, you can visit the CPSC's official page on the investigation.
Final Thoughts
FPE Stab-Lok® breakers and panelboards pose significant safety risks due to their high failure rate and fraudulent safety certifications. Homeowners, particularly those with homes built between 1950 and 1990, should have these systems inspected and replaced by professionals to ensure safety and compliance with modern electrical standards. Proactively replacing these outdated systems can prevent potential fire hazards and ensure the safety of your home and family.
Additional Concerns
Longevity and Reliability
Even if FPE panels have functioned without incident for years, they could fail without warning. The risk of sudden failure underscores the importance of replacing these panels, regardless of their past performance.
Annual Inspections
Regular inspections of your panel are recommended, as even non-defective panels can degrade over time. An annual inspection by a qualified electrician can help identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems.
Impact on Property Sales
An FPE panel can affect your home's resale value and may be flagged during inspections. Prospective buyers are likely to be aware of the risks associated with these panels and may require their replacement as a condition of sale. Replacing the panel proactively can smooth the sales process and potentially enhance your home's marketability.
Other Defective Panels
Similar risks exist with Zinsco and GTE Challenger panels, which also pose fire hazards and were installed in many homes during the mid-20th century. Homeowners with these panels should consider similar inspections and replacements to ensure electrical safety.
Contact Us if You Have a FPE Panel
Replacing FPE panels is crucial for ensuring electrical safety, preventing fire hazards, and maintaining home insurance and property value. If you suspect that your home may have an FPE panel, it is essential to take immediate action by consulting a licensed electrical contractor. By addressing this issue proactively, you can protect your home and family from the significant risks associated with FPE Stab-Lok® breakers and panelboards.