When it comes to your home’s electrical system, safety is crucial. The electrical panel is the central hub that distributes power throughout your home, protecting circuits from overloads and preventing electrical fires. However, not all electrical panels are created equal, and some older brands, like Federal Pacific and Zinsco, have proven to be hazardous over time. In this blog, we’ll explore why these panels are considered unsafe and what steps you can take to ensure the safety of your home.
The Dangers of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels
Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Panels: A History of Safety Concerns
Federal Pacific Electric panels were widely used in homes built from the 1950s to the 1980s. However, over time, these panels have been found to have serious flaws. The primary issue with FPE panels is that their circuit breakers often fail to trip when an electrical surge or overload occurs. Studies have shown that up to 60% of FPE breakers may not trip as required, allowing dangerous levels of electricity to flow through your home’s circuits, potentially causing fires.
Why Federal Pacific Panels Are Unsafe
- Failure to Trip: The most significant safety concern is that FPE breakers do not reliably trip in response to an overload or short circuit. This increases the risk of overheating and electrical fires.
- Design Flaws: The design of these panels includes materials and construction techniques that can degrade over time, further compromising their safety.
- Lack of Safety Compliance: FPE panels have been found to not meet updated safety standards, and many insurance companies now refuse to insure homes with these panels installed.
The Risks of Zinsco Electrical Panels
Zinsco Panels: A Hidden Danger in Your Home
Zinsco panels were popular in the 1960s and 1970s. While they were state-of-the-art for their time, these panels are now known to have significant safety issues. Zinsco panels often have faulty circuit breakers that can fail to trip in dangerous situations. Furthermore, the breakers can sometimes become fused to the bus bar, causing overheating and potentially leading to electrical fires.
Why Zinsco Panels Are Unsafe
- Faulty Breakers: Zinsco breakers may fail to trip during an overload, creating a high risk of electrical fires.
- Overheating Risks: Defective connections and the use of materials prone to corrosion increase the likelihood of overheating.
- Material Degradation: Components made with inferior materials degrade over time, which can compromise the overall safety of the electrical system.
Electrical Panel Experts
Do you have one of these electrical panels and not sure what to do? We are here to help! The safety of your home’s electrical system is not something to take lightly, which is why we offer electrical safety inspections. Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels have a well-documented history of failures and risks that could put your home and family in danger. Upgrading to a modern, safe electrical panel is a wise investment in your home’s safety and peace of mind. Contact Professional Power today to schedule an inspection and discuss your options for a safe and reliable electrical panel upgrade.
