Is It still a FPE panel

[Tom Rollins]

I need some extra information and some help on this subject. Is it still a FPE breaker panel when all the breakers in the panel are replaced with Challenger breakers? Does it or could it still have problems where the breakers make contact to the bus bar? I would think it cost more to replace the breakers then the whole panel. I still wrote it up as a FPE panel and to have it checked by an electrical contractor.

[hausdok]

Hi,

If I were you, I'd still express extreme reservations about that panel and advise the clients that it's better to be safe than sorry. The breakers were only part of the problem with FPE panels. Another significant problem, and probably why there's still reason to be concerned, is the way that the breakers plug into the bus bar instead of clamping onto it like most systems. Douglas Hansen covers that in his paper FPE Panels - Hazard or Hype? that is downloadable here on TIJ at this link.

Download a copy and then email it to the client and any realtors involved. Bet when you do that the questions will stop.

ONE TEAM - ONE FIGHT!!!

Mike

[Scottpat]

Tom, you asked the same question on Brian's Inspection News board. The same answers apply on Mikes board as well.

[Les]

FPE is a bunch of components, so if you don't understand the concerns with all or most, call it out and direct them to other sources.

[Bradd Judd]

I agree with my collegues and will go one further. I call out FPE even if it's the old Screw type fuses which almost always mean oversized and incorrect fuses and ungrounded 2 wire conductors. So it's a no brainer for me as soon as I see the infamous FPE logo and trademark. Well done on writing it young man!

[Rob Amaral]

Good point on the fused FPE panels. I saw one a while back where the fuse holder assemblies that plug in (like the CBs) had high-heat damage due to the poor-grade plug-in connection. Observation lead to a replacement.

[Tom Rollins]

Thanks Mike. I have that download on my computer and keep some copies with me to give to my clients when a FPE panel is present. Scott, I know that, I just wanted some more feed back and I got it. Thanks all for your comments and feed back.

Tom