Is your home still relying on a decades-old Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panel? If so, you could be living with one of the most notorious electrical hazards in American housing history. At Home Electrical Services, we specialize in Federal Pacific Panel Upgrades in Spokane, WA, and we’re here to help you understand the risks and how to replace it with confidence.
What Is a Federal Pacific Panel?
Federal Pacific Electric panels were installed in millions of homes between the 1950s and 1980s. Their “Stab-Lok” breakers became widely used—but soon after, engineers and inspectors discovered these breakers often failed to trip during electrical surges or overloads. That means they didn’t do the one job a breaker is supposed to do: stop fires before they start.
Studies found that Stab-Lok breakers can fail as often as 1 in 4 times they’re needed. As a result, many insurance companies won’t cover homes with FPE panels still in place. And most electricians—including our team at Home Electrical Services—recommend full replacement as soon as possible.
Why Replace Your Federal Pacific Panel?
Here’s what can happen if you keep that FPE panel around:
- Electrical fires: Due to breakers not tripping during overload.
- Power surges: Putting your expensive electronics and appliances at risk.
- Insurance issues: Many carriers refuse to insure homes with known fire hazards.
- Failed home inspections: Selling your house? FPE panels can tank a deal fast.
If you’re in Spokane or the surrounding area, upgrading your Federal Pacific panel is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. That’s why Home Electrical Services is proud to be a trusted provider of Federal Pacific Panel Upgrades in Spokane, WA.
What’s Involved in a Panel Upgrade?
When you choose Home Electrical Services for your panel upgrade, you get a seamless experience from start to finish:
- Inspection & Consultation We begin with a detailed inspection and walk you through the issues with your current panel. If it’s an FPE panel, we’ll show you why replacing it is not just smart—it’s necessary.
- Upfront Pricing: We believe in full transparency. You’ll get a quote in writing with no hidden fees, surprises, or pressure.
- Permitting & Utility We’ll handle all necessary permits and schedule power shut-offs and inspections with your utility provider.
- Same-Day Installation: Most panel upgrades can be completed in a single day. Our licensed electricians will remove the outdated FPE panel and install a modern, code-compliant model.
- Inspection & Safety Testing: Once installed, we test every connection, breaker, and grounding point to ensure it meets code and functions safely.
What You Get with a Modern Panel
- Up-to-code AFCI and GFCI breakers
- Room for added circuits and future upgrades
- Proper grounding and bonding
- Options for whole-home surge protection
- A printed directory that makes sense
Plus, you’ll be ready for high-demand appliances like hot tubs, HVAC systems, or EV chargers.
How Much Does It Cost?
Every home is different, but here are typical ranges:
- Federal Pacific panel replacement: $2,000–$4,000 (3500.00–5500.00)
- Upgrade to 200-amp service: Add $500–$1,000 Spokane proper requires more work if we are going up in amperage.
- Whole-home surge protector (optional): $250–$350
We also offer convenient financing plans to make the investment easier.
Why Choose Home Electrical Services?
When you need Federal Pacific Panel Upgrades in Spokane, WA, you want someone you can trust. We bring:
- Decades of experience and fully licensed electricians
- Real reviews from happy customers
- Friendly, respectful service and clean job sites
- Same-day appointments when available
- Honest pricing and expert workmanship
We proudly serve Spokane, WA, and the surrounding region with safe, reliable electrical services. Learn more about who we are and explore our full range of services.
Federal Pacific Panel Replacement FAQs
Q: How do I know if I have a Federal Pacific panel? A: Look for the words “Federal Pacific,” “FPE,” or “Stab-Lok” on the panel or breakers. You might also see a red stripe along the breaker handles.
Q: Is it safe to just replace the breakers? A: No. The core issue is with the panel’s design. Replacing breakers doesn’t fix the root problem.
Q: Will I need to be without power all day? A: You’ll lose power for a few hours, but most installations are completed in a single day.
Q: What about permits and inspections? A: We handle all of it—from pulling permits to scheduling inspections.
Protect Your Home the Smart Way
Your Federal Pacific panel has done its time. Don’t wait for failure to force your hand. Get peace of mind and upgraded performance with a safe, modern panel from Home Electrical Services.
Schedule your Federal Pacific Panel Upgrade in Spokane, WA here https://homeelectrical.net/Schedule-Service/, or call us today at (509) 350-0055.