How to Replace an FPE Circuit Breaker
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) breakers have a reputation for being unreliable, and they may constitute a fire hazard. They simply shut off the power as dependably as they should. Experts recommend that the entire electrical panel be replaced if it is an FPE. If the issue is only an individual breaker, however, it can be swapped out for a new one without considerable expense or difficulty. It can be replaced the same way any other circuit breaker is replaced: quickly and easily within the home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Place a rubber mat down directly in front of the breaker box, and make sure the ground around it is clean and dry. Stand on the mat at all times while you work.
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2
Shut off the master power switch on your breaker box, then check to make sure the old FBE breaker is turned off as well. In addition, keep the replacement breaker in the "Off" position while you work.
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3
Unscrew the metal frame surrounding your breaker box and set it to one side.
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4
Use a voltmeter to ensure that there is no electricity running through the FPE circuit breaker. Place one prong of the voltmeter against the breaker's terminal screw and the other prong against the grounding screw (which can usually be found on a vertical bar on the right-hand side of the circuit panel). If it doesn't light up, it's safe to continue.
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5
Unscrew the FPE breaker from its mounting, then unscrew the wiring from the terminal screw (or screws). Note which wire connects to which screw (the wiring should be color-coded to help you keep track).
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6
Screw the wiring into the terminal screw or screws on the new breaker, then screw the new breaker into place.
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7
Turn on the main power, then turn on the new breaker. Repeat the voltmeter test from Step 4. It should register that electricity is flowing through it normally. Check the lights in the pertinent area of the house to ensure that they are operating as they should.
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8
Fit the panel frame back into its old spot and screw it into place.
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Tips & Warnings
An FPE circuit breaker should always be replaced by a more reliable brand using the same voltage and amperage--preferably one designed to specifically replace an FPE breaker. Don't replace it with another FPE breaker; it won't solve the problem.
If your entire panel is FPE, then replacing the individual breakers isn't likely to help. Call an electrician and ask about replacing your entire box.
