Federal Pacific Electric equipment probs
I have just come across some alarming information regarding apparently unsafe electrical boxes and breakers, made by Federal Pacific Electric
You can find an interesting read at the following link:
http://www.inspect-ny.com/fpe/fpepanel.htm
Google search will turn up many more pages as well.
Don’t know if this has ever been discussed here before, but I did a quick search of the discussion forums and got a few hits, but nothing that explicitly discussed this topic.
Apparently, the electrical boxes and breakers made by this company are now regarded as hazards, and some are recommending that homeowners check their house for the presence of FPE products. If any are found, the entire assembly may need to be replaced, by the sound of it.
I would appreciate any information from those of you who are practicing electricians, to let me and all the other readers here know if what I have just said is overblown, or reasonably accurate.
Replies
FP breakers and panels were pretty much middle of the pack sixty years ago.
Sixty years later breakers have gotten, on the average, better so even a new FP breaker looks pretty poor. Of course wear and tear of being in use for sixty years hasn't made them any better.
This wasn't made any better when some people started rebuilding circuit breakers and didn't do such a good job on the delicate FP breaker design. That is not to say rebuilt breakers are all bad. If rebuilt by a reputable company they can be as good, sometimes better than, new.
When I see a FP brand panel, or several other obsolete brands, I usually recommend that it be replaced. A minor problem can be fixed without replacement and reputable new FP are available but the larger breakers, especially the main breakers get pricy. Be sitting if you look up the going price for a 600A three phase main.
Eventually the FP panel will have to go. And the sooner it happens the safer it is going to be. I don't run away screaming when I see a FP panel but it is a concern. One way I address it is to suggest the HO start saving for a new panel and try to shoot for replacement within the year. Some follow the aadvice while other don't. I can't force them to have the job done.
When the panels are overloaded of in frightful condition it is advisible for the contractor to send a letter to the HO letting them know about the situation. Send it return receipt or registered and be sure to keep a copy on file. It isn't free but it is, if the place burns down and the HO comes after you, cheap insurance.