Is your Federal Pacific circuit breaker safe? Look for signs of this outdated breaker in your home.
If your home was built between the 1950s and 1990s, there’s a chance it may still be equipped with a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel—specifically those containing Stab-Lok® breakers. While these breakers were widely installed in homes across the country during that era, they are now known to pose significant safety risks. If you have one in your home, it may be time to consider a replacement to better protect your property and your family. Call your electrician at Professional Electric Inc. for a closer look if you are concerned about your circuit breaker.
Why Federal Pacific Breakers Are a Hazard
Federal Pacific breakers, particularly the Stab-Lok® models, have a troubling history of defects. Independent testing in 2017 showed that up to 25% of these breakers fail to operate correctly. That means in the event of a power surge or circuit overload, the breaker may not trip as it should, potentially leading to overheating, fires, or even electrical shocks.
Even more concerning is the fact that FPE breakers don’t meet today’s National Electrical Code (NEC) standards. In fact, the NEC has banned the installation of these panels in new homes. To make matters worse, a New Jersey court found that Federal Pacific Electric knowingly falsified safety test results in order to meet industry certification standards—yet the Consumer Product Safety Commission never issued an official recall.
Despite the company being out of business for years, these outdated panels are still found in millions of homes today.
Signs You May Have a Federal Pacific Panel
Not sure if your home has a Federal Pacific breaker panel? Here are a few indicators:
- Your home was built between 1950 and 1990.
- The breaker panel features a “Federal Pacific Electric” or “FPE” label on the front cover.
- Inside the panel, you’ll see the name “Stab-Lok®” near the center or side.
- The breakers may have a distinctive red stripe across the front.
If any of these apply to your home, it’s a strong sign to have your system professionally evaluated by Professional Electric Inc.
Why You Should Replace It
Even if your FPE panel has worked without issue for years, it still poses a significant risk. These panels:
- Often fail to trip when necessary.
- Lack proper grounding, which makes them more vulnerable to surges.
- Are responsible for an estimated 2,800 electrical fires annually.
- Are frequently flagged by insurance companies, which may refuse to cover homes with FPE panels.
Your circuit breakers play a vital role in maintaining electrical safety. A properly functioning breaker trips when it detects an overload or short circuit, cutting off electricity to prevent fire or damage. When a breaker fails to trip—especially during a surge or in damp conditions—it can overheat and cause serious danger.
What to Do Next
Replacing a Federal Pacific breaker panel is not a DIY job. It requires the expertise of a licensed electrician who can safely remove the outdated components and install a modern, up-to-code panel. The peace of mind and safety an electric panel replacement offers make it a worthwhile investment.
At Professional Electric Inc, we specialize in safe, code-compliant panel replacements. Our team is licensed, bonded, and experienced in upgrading outdated breaker systems to modern standards. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today to schedule an inspection of your panel and explore your upgrade options.
Call Professional Electric, Inc. for Electrical Services in Crofton
Our family-owned and operated business has earned the trust of the Crofton community since 1990. Our team of friendly and expert electricians is licensed, bonded, and insured. From electric panel upgrades to lighting installations, and all other electrical services and repairs in between, you can count on Professional Electric to get it done safely and skillfully. Further, our dedicated electricians are standing by 24/7 for your emergency electrical situations. We proudly serve customers in Annapolis, Severna Park, Crofton, Gambrills, Odenton, Bowie, Stevensville, Mitchellville, Millersville, Cape St Claire, the surrounding Southern Maryland area, and beyond. To find out more information on our wide range of electrical services, or to get a free estimate from our master electricians, contact us at our website or call 410‐451‐8085, 301‐390‐7620, or 443‐871‐1492. For more ways to stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.