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5 Dangerous Problems with Stab-Lok Panels (Why You Must Replace Yours Now!)

5 Dangerous Problems with Stab-Lok Panels (Why You Must Replace Yours Now!)

If your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s, there’s a chance your electrical system includes a Stab-Lok panel — and that’s a serious safety concern.

At SureTek Electric, we’ve seen firsthand how these outdated panels pose fire hazards, breaker failures, and compliance issues. Stab-Lok panels have been linked to numerous electrical fires across North America.

If your home still has one, now is the time to upgrade.

Stab-Lok Panels Need To be replaced

1. Stab-Lok Breakers Don’t Trip Properly

Breakers are designed to shut off power when there’s an overload or short circuit. The problem? Stab-Lok breakers fail up to 80% of the time. That means they may continue supplying power even in dangerous situations.

Why This Is Dangerous

If a breaker fails to trip, wires can overheat, melt, or spark a fire. We’ve seen homes in Calgary suffer serious damage from Stab-Lok panel failures. Don’t wait for an emergency — upgrade now.

2. Stab-Lok Panels Overheat Easily

These panels are poorly designed and trap heat when breakers don’t trip properly. That heat buildup creates a fire risk — especially in older homes with aging wiring.

Warning Signs of Overheating:

  • A burning smell near the panel
  • Discolored or scorched breakers
  • Breakers that feel hot to the touch

If you notice any of these signs, contact SureTek Electric right away for an inspection.

3. Loose Breakers Cause Dangerous Electrical Arcing

Stab-Lok breakers are known for coming loose from the bus bar over time. This creates arcing — where electricity jumps between gaps — which increases the chance of:

  • Electrical shock
  • Appliance damage
  • Fire

Don’t risk it — upgrade your panel before it becomes a costly issue.

4. Stab-Lok Panels Are Obsolete & Not CSA Approved

Stab-Lok panels are no longer made or approved by Canadian safety standards. Many insurance providers won’t cover homes with these panels, and finding parts is nearly impossible.

How This Affects You

Thinking of selling? A Stab-Lok panel may scare off buyers, delay sales, or even block financing. Upgrading now protects your property value and insurability.

Stab-Lok Panel Interior

5. These Panels Fail Modern Inspections

Current building codes have moved far beyond what Stab-Lok panels offer. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or finishing a basement, this outdated equipment can cause failed inspections and permit delays.

Click here to read the RedBud Property Inspections report on Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Panels.

What Should You Do If You Have a Stab-Lok Panel?

Stab-Lok-Large

If your home still has a Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok panel, you should replace it immediately. SureTek Electric specializes in panel upgrades across Calgary and surrounding areas.

Get Your Electrical Panel Inspected Today

Our licensed electricians will inspect your system, identify the panel brand and breaker issues, and give you a clear, code-compliant upgrade quote — fast.

📞 Call us at (587) 323-4123
📧 Email: info@suretek.ca
📍 View us on Google

Why Trust SureTek for Your Stab-Lok Panel Upgrade?

  • Licensed & insured electricians — local to Calgary
  • Experience with Federal Pacific & Federal Pioneer panel replacements
  • Permits & inspections handled start to finish
  • Fast quotes. Clean work. No mess, no callbacks.

Don’t wait for a fire to act — contact SureTek today and get peace of mind.

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