The Hidden Danger of Federal Pacific Panels: How This Outdated System Puts Your Home at Risk
April 17, 2025
As temperatures rise and energy usage spikes, your home’s electrical system needs to be ready to handle the load. Here are key tips to get summer-ready and avoid outages, hazards, or unexpected repairs:
- Check Your Panel & Breakers
Summer means more AC use, fans, outdoor lighting, and appliances.
- Inspect your panel for corrosion, tripped breakers, or outdated brands (like Federal Pacific or Zinsco/Sylvania).
- Consider a panel upgrade if your system is older or maxed out.
👉 Franchi Electric specializes in safe panel replacements.
- Test All Outdoor Outlets & Lighting
- Make sure GFCI outlets around pools, patios, and BBQ areas are working properly.
- Inspect for cracked covers, loose wiring, or signs of water damage.
- Install weatherproof covers if needed.
- Evaluate Your Air Conditioning Circuit
- AC units draw a lot of power. If your system is overheating or constantly tripping breakers, your circuit may be overloaded.
- Have a licensed electrician inspect the dedicated AC circuit to ensure it’s safely wired.
- Install Surge Protection
- Summer storms and blackouts can cause voltage spikes.
- A whole-house surge protector helps protect appliances, TVs, computers, and HVAC systems.
- Upgrade Your Lighting to Energy Efficient
- Swap old incandescent bulbs for LEDs to reduce heat output and save on bills.
- Add motion sensors or timers to outdoor lighting for better security and energy use.
- Schedule a Full Electrical Safety Inspection
- Especially if your home is older or still has knob & tube wiring, summer is the right time to get everything checked.
- A licensed electrician can identify fire risks, overloaded circuits, or wiring damage.
🛠️ Need help getting your home summer-ready? Franchi Electric offers fast, expert service for troubleshooting, repairs, panel upgrades, knob & tube cleanups, and more.
📞 Call today for a summer electrical checkup!
Want this in a flyer format or Instagram carousel next?
