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Far left is a Federal Pacific Electric Stab-Lok electric service entrance panel. Though it is hard to see at this resolution, there are several problems with this panel. Several circuits are not properly grounded [the ground wire is wrapped around the cable sheath and clamped under the cable clamp as the cable enters the panel box], all circuits are not fully labelled, and there are more than 6 breakers that must be shut off to disconnect power to the entire house. Perhaps most importantly, this particular panel was investigated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The investigation was terminated before it was complete. CPSC refused to issue a recall of these panels. They also refused to say that the FPE Stab-Lok panel is equipment. Our preference is to err on the side of safety. Immediate left, we see an electrical cable in a hot-air HVAC duct. This is a no-no, and could result in fire due to deterioration of the cable sheathing and wire insulation from operating at temperatures that this cable is not designed to withstand over prolonged periods. |