Federal Pacific Panels Are a Fire Hazard
If your home has a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok panel, your family may be at serious risk. These panels have a well-documented history of failing to protect homes from electrical fires.
What Is a Federal Pacific Electric Panel?
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) was one of the most common electrical panel manufacturers in the United States from the 1950s through the 1980s. Millions of homes across the country — including many in New Jersey — were built with FPE Stab-Lok panels installed.
In the 1980s, investigations revealed that FPE had falsified safety testing data submitted to Underwriters Laboratories (UL). The breakers were never properly certified, and independent testing confirmed that Stab-Lok breakers fail to trip at an alarming rate — sometimes exceeding 50% failure in certain configurations.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) investigated FPE panels and the findings were serious. If your home was built between 1950 and 1990, there is a real chance you may have one of these panels.
Why These Panels Are Dangerous
The risks associated with Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panels are well-documented and serious.
Increased Fire Risk
Federal Pacific Stab-Lok breakers are known to fail to trip during overloads and short circuits — the primary cause of electrical fires. Independent testing found failure rates as high as 51%.
Breakers That Don't Trip
The core job of a circuit breaker is to shut off power when something goes wrong. FPE Stab-Lok breakers frequently fail to do this, allowing dangerous levels of current to flow unchecked.
No Longer Code Compliant
Federal Pacific Electric went out of business and their panels are no longer manufactured or supported. Replacement parts are unavailable, making repairs impossible and leaving your home unprotected.
Insurance & Resale Issues
Many homeowners insurance companies will refuse to cover homes with FPE panels, or charge significantly higher premiums. Buyers and home inspectors routinely flag these panels during real estate transactions.
Signs You May Have a Federal Pacific Panel
Not sure if you have one? Here are the warning signs to look for:
- Your panel has "Federal Pacific Electric" or "Stab-Lok" printed on it
- Breakers fail to trip
- Lights flicker or dim unexpectedly
- You smell burning near the electrical panel
- The panel feels warm to the touch
- Your home was built between 1950 and 1990
- You've had a home inspection that flagged the panel
If you recognize any of these signs, don't wait. Call us today for a free inspection.
Call (973) 696-0048Our Replacement Process
We make the process straightforward and stress-free from start to finish.
Free Inspection
We come to your home and assess your existing Federal Pacific panel at no charge.
Written Estimate
You receive a clear, itemized quote with no hidden fees before any work begins.
Permitted Replacement
We pull all required permits and replace your panel with a modern, code-compliant unit.
Inspection & Sign-Off
The work is inspected by the local municipality and you receive full documentation.
Protect Your Home Today
Based in Wayne, NJ, we service all of Northern NJ — specifically Passaic, Bergen, Morris, and Essex counties. Don't put your family at risk. Contact us for a free Federal Pacific panel inspection.