If your panel says Federal Pacific, FPE or Stab-Lok, get it checked by a licensed electrician and talk through replacing it. There was no recall, and the federal investigation ended with no safety ruling either way. A typical replacement in Orlando costs $1,500–$4,500, permit and inspection included.
How do I tell if I have a Federal Pacific panel?
Read the label inside the panel door. You are looking for the words Federal Pacific Electric, FPE or Stab-Lok. Open the door only and snap a photo.
What did the CPSC say about Federal Pacific breakers?
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission closed its two-year investigation in March 1983 and made no determination either way. The agency's own release says the data did not establish a serious risk of injury, and a note added later says the closure settled nothing about whether the breakers are safe. It also reports that some breakers failed UL calibration tests.
So there is no federal finding that these panels are hazardous, and no federal finding that they are fine. Anyone telling you the government ruled one way is overselling.
Why do people still bring up Federal Pacific?
Because inspectors and electricians who deal with these panels have formed their own view.
InspectApedia, a non-government inspection site, recommends full replacement, citing Jesse Aronstein's tests: 12% of double-pole and 1% of single-pole breakers failed to trip or jammed at twice rated current. The test samples were small, so read that as one side arguing a position.
What should I do if I find one?
- Note the label. The photo from the panel door is enough.
- Call your insurer if you're buying, selling or renewing. Ask whether they have a rule on this brand, and get the answer in writing.
- Get it checked. Request a visit. A licensed electrician looks at the panel, its condition and your loads.
- Then decide. You get the real number first. Replace now, or plan for it with the facts in hand.
How much does Federal Pacific panel replacement cost in Orlando?
Expect the normal panel price, $1,500–$4,500, because the job is the same: old panel out, new one in, circuits moved, permit and inspection. Worn wiring at the meter or a move pushes it higher. The panel upgrade cost guide has the published local numbers. Sizing up at the same time? See the 100-amp to 200-amp upgrade.
Where are these panels most likely around Orlando?
In older houses. Census estimates put about 56% of Winter Park housing and about 33% of Orlando's at 1979 or earlier, against about 15% in Winter Garden. It tells you nothing about your own wall, but it does say who should read the label first. See panel upgrades in Winter Park, Maitland and Orlando, or all areas served. Also see Zinsco panels.
Checking for more than the brand? See the warning signs in is my electrical panel dangerous?
Common questions
Were Federal Pacific panels recalled?
No. There was no CPSC recall of Federal Pacific breakers. The agency closed its investigation in 1983 without deciding whether they were safe.
Can I just replace the Stab-Lok breakers?
That does not deal with what people worry about, which is how the breakers and panel work together. InspectApedia recommends replacing the whole panel. Ask the electrician who sees yours.
Does a Federal Pacific panel cost more to replace?
Expect the normal panel price, because the job is the same swap. Meter condition and location are what move the number.
Can I keep using the panel until the appointment?
Ask that when you book, because the answer depends on the panel's condition. If anything is hot, scorched or smells of burning, stop using that circuit. Do not keep resetting a breaker that trips. If you see smoke or fire, leave and call 911.
