One of the most popular brands of electric panels from the 1960's through the 1980's was the Federal Pacific Stab-Lok circuit breaker box. Millions were installed all across the country in homes and apartments, condos, and commercial real estate. Experts have questioned them as posing a real potential fire hazard. Federal Pacific (FPE)/STAB-LOK electrical panels are panels that have been the subject of UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and consumer concerns related to inadequate safety protection. Consistent evidence has been presented that FPE/STAB-LOK breakers have a tendency to become loose and experience failure of unit circuit protection. The breakers often do not trip in the event of an emergency leaving the circuit unprotected - this is a SIGNIFICANT FIRE HAZARD. In addition, Follow this link for further information about these panels and the dangers they pose:
How to identify FPE breakers
The breaker box door usually says “Federal Pacific Electric” or “FPE.”
A website called InspectAPedia supplies photos and further steps for identifying FPE Stab-Lok panels and breakers. Still unsure?
Ask an electrician to remove individual breakers from the panel — you could be electrocuted if you do it yourself — and look for the E-shaped and F-shaped openings that are unique to Stab-Lok breakers.
How to identify successor Stab-Lok breakers made under other brand names
Again, most — but not all — will have the word “Stab-Lok” in the center or on the side of the breaker panel.
You can also feel free to email me pictures of your electrical panel and I would be glad to tell you if I believe it is an FPE/Stab-Lok panel for free. info@texasvalor.com