Panel Replacement
Zinsco, Federal Pacific Stab-Lok, some Challenger panels and fuse boxes have known flaws. Same-amp swaps typically run $3,000 to $5,400 plus permit fees.
Read the label inside the panel door. Federal Pacific Stab-Lok and Zinsco breakers may fail to trip when they should. Some Challenger panels and old fuse boxes have problems too.
Found one? We open it and show you what we see. If it goes, it's usually a one-day permitted swap your insurer or buyer will accept.
Panels we replace
- Old Panel ReplacementReplace panels inspectors and insurers flag.
- Old Wiring & Panel RemovalOld wiring and dead panels, removed safely.
Signs your panel should go
- Label reads Zinsco, Sylvania, Federal Pacific, FPE, Stab-Lok or Challenger
- Screw-in fuses or a fuse box
- Insurer or buyer's inspector wants it replaced
- Loose, warm or discolored breakers
How a panel replacement goes
- Inspect. We confirm the brand and check the bus (the bars breakers clip onto), breakers and main connections.
- Price and permit. Same amperage, or priced both ways if capacity is tight.
- Swap day. Old panel out, new panel and breakers in, grounding up to current code.
- Inspect and document. Permit signed off, insurer paperwork in hand.
What a panel replacement costs
| Job | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Older panel replaced, same amperage (plus permit fees) | $3,000 to $5,400 |
| Combined meter and main enclosure (added when meter and main share one box) | $700 to $1,500 |
Prices updated October 2026.
Problem panels around here
Federal Pacific and Zinsco came with the 1960s and 1970s boom: Citrus Heights, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Rancho Cordova, North Highlands, Roseville, Davis. Fuse boxes linger in Sacramento's Land Park, Curtis Park and Oak Park. California insurers ask about them at renewal more and more.
Panel replacement questions
Are Zinsco and Federal Pacific panels dangerous?
They can be. Both have a history of breakers that may not trip in an overload or short, and many insurers flag them. We recommend replacement, after showing you your panel.
How much does it cost to replace an old electrical panel?
Typically $3,000 to $5,400 at the same amperage, plus permit fees. We can price an upgrade alongside. Prices updated October 2026.
Can I just replace the bad breakers?
Not with Zinsco or Federal Pacific. New breakers don't fix the panel, and genuine parts are scarce.
Will my insurance company accept a new panel?
Yes. The permit sign-off and equipment invoice are what insurers typically want.
Updated October 2026 by the Chief Electric team.