Zinsco electrical panels and circuit breakers were produced in the United States from the late 1950s to the late 1970s. These panels were known for their poor design and have since been linked to a number of safety concerns. In this article, we will discuss the safety concerns surrounding Zinsco panels, how to identify them and why it is important to have them replaced.

Safety Concerns

Zinsco panels have been linked to a number of safety concerns due to their poor design. One of the main concerns with Zinsco panels is that they can malfunction and lead to potential fire hazards. This is because the circuit breaker in a Zinsco panel is not designed to trip when necessary, which can lead to an overloaded electrical circuit and increase the risk of an electrical fire. Additionally, the aluminum bus bars used in Zinsco panels can corrode over time, further increasing the risk of a fire hazard.

Another issue with Zinsco panels is that they are known to have a high failure rate. This means that the circuit breaker in a Zinsco panel may not trip when it should, which can lead to an overloaded electrical circuit and an increased risk of an electrical fire. Furthermore, the aluminum bus bars in a Zinsco panel can corrode over time, further increasing the risk of a fire hazard.

It is important to note that these safety concerns are not just limited to older Zinsco panels. Even newer panels that were manufactured before the company went out of business in the 1970s can still pose a risk to your home or business. Therefore, it is crucial to have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical panel to determine if it is a Zinsco panel and if it needs to be replaced.

Identification of Zinsco Panels

It is important to know if you have a Zinsco panel in your home or business, as they can pose a significant danger to you and your property. Zinsco panels can be identified by their distinctive blue or gray metal enclosure and by the name “Zinsco” or “Sylvania” printed on the panel. Additionally, Zinsco circuit breakers can be identified by the name “Zinsco” or “Sylvania” printed on the breaker. If you suspect that you have a Zinsco panel, it is important to consult with a licensed electrician to have it inspected and replaced if necessary.

Replacement of Zinsco Panels

The process of replacing a Zinsco panel should be left to a licensed electrician. An electrician will be able to safely remove the old panel and install a new one that meets current safety standards and is compatible with your electrical system. Replacing a faulty Zinsco panel can bring a number of benefits, including:

  • Increased safety: A new panel will be designed to trip when necessary, reducing the risk of an electrical fire.
  • Improved electrical efficiency: A new panel will be able to handle the electrical load of your home or business more efficiently, reducing the risk of power outages or brownouts.
  • Greater peace of mind: Knowing that your electrical panel is up to date and safe can give you greater peace of mind and protect your home or business from potential hazards.

It’s important to note that replacing a Zinsco panel can be a costly process, but it is important to consider the potential risks and costs of not replacing it. A failed panel can lead to an electrical fire which can cause significant damage to your home or business, and even loss of life. In addition, if you are planning to sell your home, having a Zinsco panel can be a significant liability and may affect the sale of your property.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Zinsco electrical panels and circuit breakers have been linked to a number of safety concerns due to their poor design. It is important to know if you have a Zinsco panel in your home or business and have it inspected and replaced by a licensed electrician if necessary. Replacing a faulty Zinsco panel can bring a number of benefits, including increased safety, improved electrical efficiency, and greater peace of mind. While the process of replacing a Zinsco panel can be costly, it is important to consider the potential risks and costs of not replacing it. Protect your home or business by ensuring that your electrical panel is up to date and safe.