Yes, most electricians recommend replacing a Federal Pacific (FPE) Stab-Lok or Zinsco electrical panel, because these panels have a long, widely reported history of breakers that may fail to trip during an overload or short circuit. A breaker that doesn't trip can let wiring overheat, which is a fire risk. Both brands were installed in many Southern California homes from the 1950s through the 1980s and are no longer manufactured. Replacement means a new panel, new breakers, a permit and an inspection.
Last updated: October 2026
How do you know if you have a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel?
- Federal Pacific: Look for "Federal Pacific Electric" or "FPE" on the panel cover and "Stab-Lok" on the label inside. The breakers are often thin with red or black handles.
- Zinsco: Look for "Zinsco" or "Sylvania-Zinsco" on the label. The breakers are often multi-colored and sit in rows.
If you aren't sure, don't remove the panel cover yourself. A licensed electrician can identify it safely during an electrical safety inspection.
Why are these panels considered a problem?
With FPE Stab-Lok, the concern is breakers that may not trip when they should. Zinsco panels are known for breakers that can melt onto the bus bar, the metal strip that carries power through the panel, especially as connections loosen with age. Either problem can mean a circuit keeps carrying current when it should have shut off. Home inspectors routinely flag both brands, and some insurers ask about them by name.
Does Southern California weather add to the risk?
Heat adds stress. Antelope Valley summers regularly reach the high 90s°F, and San Fernando Valley heat waves can top 100°F. Long AC run times put sustained load on panels and connections. A panel that's decades old and already questionable is not the place to test that.
What does replacing an FPE or Zinsco panel involve?
- Assess your home's load to size the new panel, often 200 amps if you're adding an EV charger or heat pump.
- Pull the permit and coordinate with your utility (SCE, LADWP, BWP or GWP, depending on the city).
- Replace the panel and breakers, and correct any connected wiring issues.
- Pass inspection and restore power, typically within a day for a standard residential swap.
See our electrical panel upgrade service and the warning signs your home needs a panel upgrade.
B&M Electrical Services has replaced older panels across the Antelope Valley, Santa Clarita and the San Fernando Valley for 30+ years as a licensed California contractor (C-1098584).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just replace the breakers instead of the whole panel?
Replacement breakers for these brands are limited, and the issues often involve the panel itself, including the bus bar and connections. Most electricians recommend replacing the whole panel.
Is my FPE or Zinsco panel an emergency?
Not automatically. But if you notice heat, burning smells, buzzing or scorch marks, turn off what you can safely and call an electrician right away.
Will a new panel help me sell my home?
It removes a common inspection flag, which can make the sale smoother.
Have an FPE or Zinsco panel? Call Us Today for a Free Estimate at (661) 904-9377 or schedule your service online.