If your home or building still has a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel, you could be at serious risk of an electrical fire. These panels, installed in millions of homes from the 1950s to the 1980s, have a well-documented history of failing to function properly when overloaded. Many homeowners are unaware of the potential danger until an electrical failure occurs.
Why This Matters
- FPE panels fail to trip during electrical surges, leading to overheating and fires.
- Up to 2,800 electrical fires per year may be linked to FPE panels (NFPA Report).
- These panels were never officially recalled, meaning many homes still have them.
- Replacing your panel could reduce fire risks, lower insurance premiums, and increase home value.
At Branover Contractors, we specialize in safe, code-compliant panel replacements. Here’s everything you need to know about FPE panels and why replacing yours should be a top priority.
What Makes Federal Pacific Panels Dangerous?
1. Breakers Fail to Trip When Needed
Circuit breakers are designed to shut off power during an overload or short circuit to prevent fires. However, FPE Stab-Lok breakers fail to trip 25%–60% of the time (Aronstein Report). This means your home could be at risk for fire without you even knowing it.
2. Increased Risk of Electrical Fires
When breakers don’t trip, electrical current continues flowing unchecked, leading to overheated wires, melted insulation, and fires. According to reports, FPE panels may have contributed to thousands of home fires and millions in property damage.
3. Deceptive Safety Testing
Investigations found that some FPE breakers were intentionally modified to pass quality control tests at the factory but failed in real-world conditions (CPSC Report). This means they were unsafe from the moment they were installed.
4. No Official Recall or Consumer Warning
Despite decades of evidence proving these panels are dangerous, they were never officially recalled. This has left countless homeowners unknowingly relying on faulty electrical systems.
5. Non-Compliance with Modern Electrical Codes
FPE panels do not meet National Electrical Code (NEC) safety standards. If you plan to sell, renovate, or insure your home, an outdated panel may cause issues, including higher insurance rates or denied coverage.
Learn more: Shocking Truths: The Lowdown on Uninsurable Electrical Panels
How to Identify a Federal Pacific Panel in Your Home
If your home was built between 1950 and 1985, check your electrical panel for these warning signs:
✅ Brand Name on the Panel Cover – Look for “Federal Pacific Electric” or “FPE” stamped on the panel door.
✅ Stab-Lok Breakers – FPE panels contain Stab-Lok breakers, which are known to fail.
✅ Red Stripes on the Breakers – Many FPE breakers have a distinct red stripe down the center.
✅ Frequent Electrical Issues – Flickering lights, buzzing outlets, and tripping breakers can indicate a failing panel.
If you suspect you have an FPE panel, do not attempt to inspect or repair it yourself—contact a licensed electrician immediately.
The Benefits of Replacing Your FPE Panel
🔴 Reduces Fire Risk – Eliminates a known electrical hazard and significantly lowers the chance of an electrical fire.
🔵 Increases Home Safety – Ensures your home’s electrical system is modern, reliable, and compliant with today’s safety codes.
🟢 Lowers Insurance Costs – Many insurance providers will reduce your premiums or reinstate coverage after a panel upgrade.
🟡 Boosts Home Value – If you’re selling your home, replacing an outdated panel can make your property more attractive to buyers and prevent issues during a home inspection.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace an FPE Panel?
Homeowners often delay replacing their panel due to cost concerns, but the price of inaction is much higher if an electrical fire occurs.
💰 Typical Cost: Between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on home size and panel requirements.
🔥 Cost of Fire Damage: Tens of thousands of dollars in repairs, loss of personal property, and potential displacement.
📉 Potential Insurance Savings: Many homeowners save money on insurance after upgrading to a safer panel.
At Branover Contractors, we offer competitive pricing, financing options, and expert installation to ensure a seamless panel replacement process.
Learn more: A Master Electrician’s Guide to Pushmatic Electrical Panels and Maintenance
Why Choose Branover Contractors for Your Electrical Panel Replacement?
✔️ Licensed & Insured – Fully certified electricians with extensive experience in panel replacements.
✔️ Fast & Reliable Service – We offer same-day inspections and priority scheduling for urgent replacements.
✔️ Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees—just honest, upfront costs.
✔️ Trusted in Los Angeles – 5-star rated by homeowners and property managers across Southern California.
Key Takeaways
✅ Federal Pacific panels are a fire hazard due to a high failure rate.
✅ These panels were never recalled, meaning thousands of homes still have them.
✅ A licensed electrician should inspect your panel if you suspect you have an FPE model.
✅ Upgrading your panel improves safety, increases property value, and may lower insurance costs.
✅ Branover Contractors specializes in expert, code-compliant panel replacements in Los Angeles.
Get a Free Electrical Panel Inspection Today
Your family’s safety is priceless. Don’t wait for an electrical failure to take action. Call Branover Contractors now at (323) 467-6661 or click below to schedule your FREE electrical panel inspection today!
