Is my Federal Pacific electrical panel dangerous?
Yes — Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panels have a documented history of breakers that fail to trip during overloads, creating a real fire risk. Insurance carriers are increasingly requiring replacement. We recommend replacement on sight regardless of panel age.
Yes — Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panels have a documented history of breakers that fail to trip during overloads, creating a real fire risk. Insurance carriers are increasingly requiring replacement. We recommend replacement on sight regardless of panel age.
Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panels (common in homes built from the 1950s through early 1980s) have been documented in CPSC investigations and independent testing to have breakers that fail to trip under sustained overload conditions.
A breaker that doesn't trip lets an overloaded wire keep heating until something catches fire. Zinsco / Sylvania panels have a similar bus-bar and breaker design issue. Insurance carriers now frequently require replacement before issuing a homeowner policy, and many will not renew without it.
If you've identified a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel, don't wait for a symptom — schedule a replacement. A 200A panel swap is typically a one-day job with a permit.
Need help with this at your home?
In-home estimates for new equipment are always free. Repair diagnostics are $79 for HVAC or $39 for plumbing & electrical — waived when you approve the repair.
Related questions
Last reviewed April 1, 2026.