⚠️ Why You Should Replace Your Federal Pacific Electrical Panel

If your home still has an old Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel, it’s more than just outdated—it could be dangerous. Here’s why replacing it should be high on your priority list.

1. Breakers Often Fail to Trip — Fire Risk

FPE’s “Stab‑Lok” breakers are known to be unreliable. Studies show 1 in 4 FPE breakers fail to trip under overload or short-circuit conditions  . When a breaker doesn’t trip, wires can overheat—increasing the chance of a fire.

In fact, defective FPE panels are linked to roughly 2–3% of residential fires in the U.S. and are a known cause of about 2,800 fires and dozens of injuries or deaths annually  .

2. Flawed Design & Fake Certifications

When FPE submitted the Stab‑Lok design for UL approval in the 1970s, they allegedly altered test data to pass the UL requirements  . In 1980, Reliance Electric—FPE’s new owner—notified the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) that many breakers failed UL standards, leading to the UL delisting of the product  .

Despite holding UL labels, FPE breakers consistently failed calibration tests, and UL famously withdrew its certification after learning of these issues  .

3. No Fix—Whole Panel Must Be Replaced

Replacing individual breakers doesn’t solve the root problem. The defective Stab‑Lok bus design and faulty trip mechanism make the entire system unreliable  .

Licensing authorities and insurance providers often refuse to cover homes with FPE panels or will require a full replacement before issuing or renewing coverage  .

4. Home Inspector & Insurance Alerts

Inspectors typically call out FPE Stab‑Lok panels as safety risks, and many home inspections require immediate review by a qualified electrician  .

Insurance companies have increasingly declined to renew or issue policies for homes with these panels. If you’re looking to sell, an FPE panel could delay closing or reduce offers  .

5. Your Safety Matters—Upgrade Now

Here’s what replacing your FPE panel does for you:

• Reliable Breakers – Modern panels have circuit breakers that consistently trip when they should, reducing fire risk.

• Updated Capacity – New panels often support 200 A service and more circuits, fitting modern electrical demands for EVs, workshops, HVAC systems, and entertainment centers.

• Insurance & Sale Confidence – With a modern panel, insurance approval becomes smoother and home inspections cleaner.

• Peace of Mind – You don’t have to gamble with outdated equipment—the risk is too high when breaker protection fails.

✅ How Orr Lighting & Electric Replaces FPE Panels

At Orr Lighting & Electric, we handle every step with care:

1. In-home Inspection – We’ll safely verify if you have an FPE panel and assess your home’s electrical needs.

2. Transparent Estimate – Expect a clear, honest breakdown of parts, labor, and permits.

3. Professional Installation – We coordinate with utilities for safe disconnection of old panels and seamlessly install a modern, code-compliant replacement.

4. Permits & Final Inspection – We handle permitting and ensure local electrical inspections are passed.

5. Labeling & Cleanup – Your new panel will be clearly labeled, fully functional, and your space left clean.

🕒 When Should You Act?

• If your home was built between the 1950s–1980s, check for any “FPE” or “Stab‑Lok” labels—those are red flags.

• If you’re selling, refinancing, or seeking insurance, you’ll likely face inspection hurdles or coverage delays.

• Don’t wait for a failure—proactive replacement is the safest and smartest path.

🔌 Next Steps

1. Contact Orr Lighting & Electric to schedule an inspection.

2. Get a no-obligation quote for replacing your panel with a modern unit.

3. Gain peace of mind knowing your home is safe—no more outdated, dangerous breakers.

Bottom Line

Federal Pacific Stab‑Lok panels aren’t just old—they’re risky. With documented failures, known design defects, and growing insurance hurdles, replacing them should be non-negotiable.

Protect your family, your property, and your peace of mind by upgrading before it’s too late. Contact Orr Lighting & Electric today.