Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Circut Breakers and Electrical Panels were manufactured by Federal Electric, which later changed their name to Federal Pacific Electric, from the mid-1950’s to the 1980’s. Federal Pacific panels were installed in many communities throughout the country prior to its major hazards becoming known. Some of the main hazards these panels were known to have were; the lack of gutter space, lack of wire bending space as per the NEC (National Electric Code) requirements, designed with problematic spring mounted bus bars, and breakers which would stay powered “on” even when in the “off” position. Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Circuit Breakers when tested failed to trip as much as 80% of the time causing them to fuse internally and/or to the bus bars, unlike circuit breakers from other manufacturers.
If the hazards associated with these panels weren’t enough, FPE was also involved in a class action lawsuit in 2005 due to their fraudulent labeling indicating their Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Circuit Breakers met the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) standard test requirements, when in fact they did not. The court ruled FPE had violated the New York Consumer Fraud Act.
IF your home or soon to be home has Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Circuit Breakers and/or Electric Panel, and you have questions regarding how to address the issue, please do not hesitate to give us a call today and one of our professional electricians can discuss your concerns with you and/or schedule an appointment for an electrical evaluation. Have a peace of mind knowing your home’s electrical system is safe.
For more information on Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Circuit Breakers and Electrical Panels, click on the links below or call us today and speak with one of our professional electricians for help with your Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Circuit Breaker Panel concerns.
http://inspectapedia.com/fpe/FPE_Stab_Lok_Hazards.php
http://inspectapedia.com/fpe/FPE_Class_Action_Settlement.php
We look forward to providing you with excellent service!