Panels & wiring
Federal Pacific panel replacement
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels with Stab-Lok breakers have a long history of breakers that may fail to trip during an overload or short circuit. Electricians commonly recommend replacing them, and many insurers ask about them.
- Call now to check electrician availability in your area
- Licensed, independent electricians
- 47 states + DC
About federal pacific panel replacement
Federal Pacific panels were installed in millions of US homes from roughly the 1950s to the 1980s. Independent testing and reports over the years found that some Stab-Lok breakers can fail to trip, which defeats the purpose of a breaker.
You can usually identify one by the "Federal Pacific Electric" or "FPE" label on the door and the narrow breakers with red-orange tips. Replacement swaps the panel and breakers for current equipment, often with a service upgrade at the same time.
- Federal Pacific Panel Replacement at a glance
- Panels & wiring
- Who does the work
- An independent licensed electrician
- Urgent calls
- Usually scheduled
- Typical first step
- Confirm the panel type
Signs you need this
- "Federal Pacific", "FPE" or "Stab-Lok" on the panel label
- Breakers that feel loose or do not snap firmly into place
- A home inspector or insurer flagging the panel
- Warm breakers or a warm panel cover
- Plans to add major loads to an older home
What the electrician does
- 1
Confirm the panel type
The electrician identifies the panel and checks the service, meter base and grounding.
- 2
Permit and utility disconnect
The permit is pulled and the utility shuts off power for the swap.
- 3
Replace panel and breakers
All circuits move to a new panel with listed breakers and required AFCI and GFCI protection.
- 4
Inspection and reconnect
The work is inspected and power is restored.
What affects the cost
Electricians set their own prices. These are the factors that move a quote up or down, so you can compare like for like.
- Panel size and number of circuits
- Whether the service amperage increases
- Meter base or service entrance replacement
- Panel relocation
- Grounding and bonding corrections
- Permit and utility fees
What you can do safely, and when to stop
Safe to do
- ✓ Photograph the panel label and breakers for the electrician
Stop and call
- ✕ Do not remove or re-seat Stab-Lok breakers
- ✕ Do not open the panel cover
Federal Pacific Panel Replacement FAQ
How do I know if I have a Federal Pacific panel?
Look for "Federal Pacific Electric", "FPE" or "Stab-Lok" on the panel door or label, and thin breakers with red-orange tips.
Can I just replace the Stab-Lok breakers?
Electricians generally recommend replacing the whole panel, because the concerns involve how the breakers and panel work together, not only individual breakers.
Will my insurance cover an FPE panel?
Some insurers decline or surcharge homes with FPE panels. Ask your insurer directly; a permit and final inspection usually document the replacement.
Is a Federal Pacific panel an emergency?
Not by itself, but signs like heat, burning smells or breakers that do not reset are reasons to call promptly.
How long does FPE panel replacement take?
Usually a day of work, plus the time needed for permits and utility scheduling.
Where electricians offer this
Available through our network in 47 states and DC. Metro guides:
Related services
Electrical Panel Upgrade
A panel upgrade replaces your breaker panel, and often the service entrance, so the home can safely carry more load: an EV charger, heat pump, induction range or addition.
Learn more →Zinsco Panel Replacement
Zinsco and Sylvania-Zinsco panels, common from the 1950s to the 1970s, have a reputation for breakers that can fuse to the bus bar and fail to trip.
Learn more →
Electrical Safety Inspection
An electrical safety inspection is a hands-on check of the panel, wiring, grounding, devices and protection by a licensed electrician.
Learn more →Need help with federal pacific panel replacement?
Call now, or send a request and a licensed electrician who serves your ZIP code will contact you.