Zinsco Electric Panels - Fire & Electrical Risk
ZINSCO panels, also known as ZINSCO-GTE-Sylvania panels, have a history of hazards and design flaws
that can lead to fires, electrical shocks, and other safety concerns. Commonly installed in the 1970s,
these panels are associated with issues such as loose circuit breakers, arcing, overheating, and failures
to trip when needed. The bus bars in these panels can easily melt and corrode, leading to problems with
the breakers and electrical flow. Some specific problems associated with Zinsco panels include:
1. Use of Aluminum Wiring: Certain components in Zinsco panels use aluminum wiring, which can
oxidize over time, leading to decreased electrical conductivity, overheating, and interference
with electrical flow.
2. Damaged Bus Bars: The bus bars in Zinsco panels are prone to damage and deterioration,
affecting the proper distribution of electricity throughout the building.
3. Breaker Design Flaws: The design of Zinsco panels allows breakers to slide along the bus bars if
a breaker is missing, leading to safety issues. Additionally, the interior tripping mechanisms of
the breakers can jam, causing them to fail to trip when overloaded, which may lead to
overheating and fire hazards.
4. Hidden Damage: Malfunctioning Zinsco panels may not show visible signs of damage on the
surface. Even when the panel cover is removed, issues may not be immediately apparent.
Electricians may discover melted breakers fused to bus bars, preventing their removal. This can
result in excessive electrical flow entering the home, increasing the risk of fire or electrical
shock.
Due to the age of most Zinsco panels, which are over 40 years old, and the increasing electrical demands of modern homes, these panels are more prone to overheating, melting, and posing a fire hazard.
Electricians and home inspectors often advise against the continued use of Zinsco panels due to the
serious risks they pose to property safety.
Insurance companies frequently require the replacement of GTE-Sylvania-Zinsco panels due to these
safety risks. It is recommended to replace these panels for safety, even if insurance is not a concern.
If you have a home with a GTE-Sylvania-Zinsco panel, it is crucial to have it inspected by a qualified
electrician to determine if replacement is necessary for your safety.
