Problem panels and wiring

• Posted on November 30, 2017
• by mikew
• in Fix It & Use It
• No Comments.

Electricity evokes fear for many people. It is a powerful energy that has been harnessed for much good use. I wanted to briefly point out the two panel types and one wiring material that have been problematic in houses of the 1960s and 1970s. If I find these issues I recommend additional evaluation and necessary repairs (if needed) by an electrician.

Problem Panels – Zinsco and Federal Pacific

There’s an interesting story about Sylvania purchasing the profitable Zinsco company that was manufacturing these panels with colorful circuit breaker switches. But Zinsco proved very unprofitable when poor connections with the bus bars began to overheat and cause fires. Similar problems emerged with the Federal Pacific panels.

If you happen to have one of these panels it does not mean it must be replaced or needs even repair. It is something that a quality electrician should look at and that you should educate yourself on. They are generally undersized by contemporary standards and they do not have a single disconnect. In addition, it is becoming harder and harder to find replacement parts for it. Replacement of this panel can be a good house investment, especially with the stigma associated with them.

Problem Wiring – Aluminum

With the shortage of copper the alternative material of aluminum began to be used for all the wiring in the house. It shares similar properties as copper in conducting electricity. The only visible differences, it is slightly thicker wire (a lower gauge is required to conduct the same electrical load) and it is dull silver in color. The contraction and expansion of the wiring that was run to lights and outlets caused many of the connections to arc. This heat resulted in over-heating and fires in some cases. Modified connections were required at all junctions to ensure this problem did not occur. The challenge comes in ensuring that every connection hidden in the walls has been found and remedied. Braided aluminum wiring is still used for service wires and many major appliances. The solid line used in branch wiring is the specific area of concern (both types are visible in the picture I took above).

If you have aluminum branch wiring consult an quality electrician for evaluation and repair where needed. In my inspections I always point out the presence of aluminum branch wiring – look back at the report I provided you for this information if you do not remember.

As always, keep in touch and let me know if there is any way I can continue to serve you and help you in the adventure of home ownership and maintenance!