86CoachmanR wrote:
****** UPDATE TO SITUATION *****
I was just informed that the circuit breaker is an outdated out of code Federal Pacific Energy board, which, the landlord refuses to update. The concern is that, with these breakers known to be 1 out of 4 faulty, that the breaker wouldn't trip causing a fire...However they've been in this house for 13 years, and have used the 30A dryer on a 20A circuit...Proving my point that the RV would barely use any energy compared to that dryer...It's difficult using facts and logic to prove a point to the paranoid.
Given that it's that kind of panel--an FPE Stab-Lok panel--I think their concern is not entirely unwarranted. These breakers are known to have a very unacceptably high rate of failure, most commonly a failure to actually shut off power. There have been a good many fires associated with these panels that most any other breaker or fuse would have prevented. The proper solution, of course, is to replace the panel with equipment that is known to work reliably.
I would suggest that they talk to the landlord's insurance agent (if they can find out who they are) and make sure that they understand what panel is there. Many insurance companies will require that the panel be changed/replaced. (And yes, it does stink if you're a landlord or homeowner stuck with the bill. I did read an analysis that concluded that, on average, it's actually a savings of money to replace the panel vs. the increased risk of losing the building in a fire, just taking into account property damage.)
