Federal Pacific Panel

Federal Pacific panels were installed in new homes throughout entire neighborhoods from the mid-1950s to the early 1980s. However, complaints about the faulty design of the Federal Pacific panel have been mounting for years, and it is important that homeowners be aware of the safety issues associated with these panels so that they may eliminate the danger from their homes by replacing the panels.

The most troubling and widely reported issue related to Federal Pacific panels is that they are equipped with faulty breakers that may fail to trip during excessive loads. The breakers may also fail to turn off internally even when the switch is in the OFF position. Other defects not related to breaker problems include panel fires and arcing failures.

It is impossible to tell which Federal Pacific panels are defective simply by inspecting them, and just because a panel has always functioned properly does not guarantee that it will continue to do so. Some manufacturers have made after-market circuit breakers designed to fit Federal Pacific panels; however, these replacement breakers may not solve all of the problems associated with the Federal Pacific panel and could actually cost more than a brand new panel.

All electrical systems have the potential to break down as they age and should be checked regularly; however, if you have a Federal Pacific panel in your home you are at greater risk for damage. We recommend that Federal Pacific panels be replaced immediately to prevent accidents.