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Federal Pacific Panels: Why They're Dangerous and What to Do
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Federal Pacific Panels: Why They're Dangerous and What to Do

Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panels are a known fire hazard found in thousands of LA homes. Here's how to identify one and why you should replace it immediately.

EZ Power & LightOctober 22, 20241 min read

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok panels were installed in millions of American homes between the 1950s and 1980s. Research has shown these panels have a significantly higher failure rate than other brands — breakers that don't trip during overloads, creating a serious fire risk.

How to Identify a Federal Pacific Panel

Look for the "Federal Pacific Electric" or "FPE" label on your breaker panel door. The breakers themselves are labeled "Stab-Lok." These panels are typically found in homes built between 1950 and 1985 throughout Los Angeles.

Why They're Dangerous

Independent testing has shown that FPE Stab-Lok breakers fail to trip at rates far exceeding industry standards. When a breaker doesn't trip during an overload, wires can overheat and start a fire inside your walls.

What You Should Do

If you have a Federal Pacific panel, we strongly recommend replacing it with a modern 200-amp panel from a trusted manufacturer like Square D, Siemens, or Eaton. This is one of the most important safety upgrades you can make to your home.

EZ Power & Light handles Federal Pacific panel replacements regularly throughout Los Angeles. We pull all permits, coordinate with LADWP, and complete the job in one day. Call 818-852-4910 for a flat-rate quote.

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