Consumer Warning About Outdated & Unsafe Electrical Panels
As electricians, we're very familiar with all brands of electrical safety panels in homes and commercial buildings, but we realize many people outside of our field are not. We wanted to provide you with information about two very specific outdated and unsafe electrical panels.
The electrical panel is installed to control and route the electrical wiring in the home or building. The box consists of components that separate the wires into circuits. Each circuit is fed through a breaker that shuts off when there's a problem along the circuit.
Every so often, safety code regulations change in relation to electrical panels. As we use more and more pour every decade or so, the safety codes get more stringent. This is a good thing, even if it means upgrading your electrical panel. After all, the regulations are in place so you don't get electrocuted and your house doesn't catch on fire due to the electrical system.
If your electrical panel hasn't been upgraded in 10 years, call us for an inspection, or call your local electrician. It's important.
There are two brands of electrical panels that need to be upgraded immediately for the safety of your home, your family, and the neighborhood. Here is some information for you to look over about these panel boxes.
Upgrade All Federal Pacific Electric Panels
Today's electrical panels should be able to handle at least 150 amps because we use a lot more electricity today due to the digital revolution. Just how many devices are you using that your parents and grandparents could never have imagined? It's not uncommon for old panels to have never been upgraded. Unfortunately, many will only be able to handle 60-amps.
Federal Pacific Electric panels were installed in homes from about the mid-1950's to the 1980's. If your home is older, you may have one of these in your home. Not only is the box outdated, there have been significant design flaws and manufacturing defects discovered that are unique to the product.
Upgrade Old Zinsco Electrical Panels
Zinsco electrical panels were installed during the 1970's as a popular choice, but are today considered obsolete. It has been found by home inspectors and electricians that these panels often fail to operate properly. They worked great for years but as we demand more and more electricity, they can't keep up.
What generally happens is that the components overheat and portions melt. This is a fire hazard. Replace your panel if it's made by Zinsco.
If your home has either of these electrical panel brands, have your electrician upgrade them. If you don't know what type of panel you have and need help, you can call our electricians at Twinson Electric if you live in our service areas.
