You may already know that Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels can be dangerous or you may be hearing it for the first time from your home inspector. Home inspectors are required to identify Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels and point out that they are a likely fire hazard and that a licensed electrician is required to further evaluate the panel. These panels/breakers are a known fire hazard because the breaker may not trip properly which could lead to an electrical fire. When a breaker fails to trip, an extreme amount of power from the outside electrical supply surges into a home’s panel and circuits. Once that happens, it can’t be shut off manually or stopped in any way. The electricity will burn until it runs out of fuel or until the wires melt. This means the panel could overheat and catch fire, causing serious harm to a home and any of its occupants. Many FPE panels and breakers can operate properly for years, but if and when they do malfunction, a serious disaster could occur therefore home inspectors are required to identify them and recommend a licensed electrician further evaluate the system.  

So, what do I do? 

If you’ve been told by your home inspector that you have an FPE panel, then it’s time to contact us so we can further evaluate it and potentially replace it to keep you and your loved ones safe. It doesn’t necessarily mean that your real estate transaction will fall through.  In many cases, we are able to make a recommendation that can be accepted by all parties.  

If you’re unsure whether or not you have an FPE panel, we recommend contacting us to have it inspected, particularly if your house was built before 1990. No matter what brand of electrical panel you have, you should have a licensed professional inspect it and provide proper maintenance for it in order to keep it in good working condition.

What to watch for: 

Does your circuit breaker keep tripping?

Do your porch lights flicker on and off? 

Are your exhaust fans functioning properly? 

These are just a few common problems homeowners face that could indicate there is a problem with their electrical system. Don’t wait to have them inspected.