Zinsco Panel Warning

The primary issue is the aluminum bus bar design. The specific aluminum alloy used is prone to oxidation, which causes it to act as an insulator rather than a conductor. This creates heat and arcing at breaker connections. Over time, breakers can literally melt and fuse to the bus bar, making them impossible to turn off even during an emergency. Additionally, the horseshoe-shaped breaker clips lack proper retention, leading to loose connections and more arcing.

Zinsco panel failures often occur without warning. The internal melting and corrosion isn't visible from outside the panel. Many house fires caused by Zinsco panels occurred in homes where the panels had "worked fine" for decades. The failure happens when you need the breaker most—during an overload or short circuit. Given that all Zinsco panels are now 40+ years old, the risk of failure increases every year. Replacement is the only way to ensure safety.

Yes. Zinsco Electric was sold to GTE-Sylvania in 1973. The product line remained identical—only the labeling changed. Panels branded "Sylvania" or "GTE-Sylvania" from this era use the same problematic design with aluminum bus bars and the same breaker types. All should be replaced regardless of which brand name appears on the panel.

An inspection can reveal obvious problems like visible melting, burn marks, or discoloration. However, not all damage is visible. Microscopic corrosion and internal melting may not be apparent until catastrophic failure occurs. Given the age of all Zinsco panels (40+ years) and the well-documented design flaws, the industry consensus is that replacement is the only way to ensure safety—not inspection and continued use.

You often can't tell from the outside, which is what makes these panels so dangerous. Signs that may indicate a problem include breakers that feel unusually warm, buzzing sounds from the panel, burn marks or discoloration, or a burning smell. However, breakers can be fused to the bus bar with no external signs. If you have a Zinsco panel, we recommend replacement rather than trying to determine if individual breakers are affected.

Zinsco panels are increasingly flagged by home inspectors and insurance companies. Many insurers now refuse to cover homes with Zinsco panels or require replacement as a condition of coverage. If your insurance company discovers you have a Zinsco panel, expect a replacement deadline of 30-60 days. We can provide complete documentation after replacement to satisfy insurance requirements.