Dangerous Electrical Panels: Why Insurance Companies Flag FPE, Zinsco, and Bulldog Pushmatic Systems

 

If your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s, it may still have an outdated, dangerous electrical panel that poses a fire hazard—and could cause problems with your homeowners insurance. Three panels are especially notorious among electricians and insurers:

• Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels with Stab-Lok breakers
• Zinsco panels
• Bulldog Pushmatic panels

These brands have a history of performance failures, outdated design, and in some cases, refusal from insurance companies to provide coverage. Here’s what you need to know about the dangers, how to spot these panels, and why replacement is the safest choice.

Why These Are Considered Dangerous Electrical Panels

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE)

• Fire Risk – Stab-Lok breakers frequently fail to trip when there’s an overload or short circuit, allowing wires to overheat.
• High Failure Rates – Testing has revealed alarmingly high non-trip rates compared to modern safety standards.
• Not Code Compliant – These panels often fall short of current electrical codes.
• Insurance Concerns – Many insurers will not write or renew policies for homes with FPE panels.

Zinsco

• Loose or Corroded Connections – Breakers can lose their grip on the bus bar, preventing them from tripping when needed.
• Overheating and Arcing – Poor connections can cause internal melting without tripping the breaker.
• Obsolete Design – No longer manufactured; replacement parts are scarce and unreliable.
• Insurance Issues – Like FPE, many insurance providers consider them a fire risk.

Bulldog Pushmatic

• Obsolete Technology – Manufactured from the 1950s to the 1980s, Pushmatic panels use a push-button breaker design instead of a traditional toggle.
• Breaker Wear Over Time – Breakers can become stiff or fail to reset properly, compromising their ability to trip in an overload.
• No Main Breaker in Some Models – This makes it harder to safely shut off all power in an emergency.
• Grounding Limitations – Many older Pushmatic panels do not meet today’s grounding and bonding requirements.
• Insurance Hurdles – Some insurers flag them due to outdated safety performance and replacement part scarcity.

Dangerous Electrical Panels: Quick Comparison Guide

Not sure if your electrical panel is a problem? Use this chart to quickly compare the three most commonly flagged brands by electricians and insurance companies. If you spot any of these in your home, it’s time to call a licensed electrician for an inspection and replacement.

Why Replacement Is the Best Option

While you might consider replacing individual breakers, the core issues in these brands stem from their overall design and manufacturing. Full replacement with a modern, code-compliant panel is the safest—and most cost-effective—long-term fix.

Benefits of replacement:

• Improved electrical safety and reliability
• Lower risk of electrical fires
• Fewer insurance complications and potential premium reductions
• Compliance with current electrical codes
• Increased home value and buyer confidence

Cost Considerations: Prices vary depending on panel size, installation complexity, and wiring needs. A licensed electrician can provide a detailed quote.

Safety First: Call a Licensed Electrician

Important: Never attempt to open or work on these panels yourself. Even with breakers in the “off” position, dangerous voltage can still be present. A qualified electrician can safely inspect your panel, confirm the brand and model, and recommend the right replacement solution.

If your home has an FPE, Zinsco, or Bulldog Pushmatic panel, replacing it isn’t just about meeting code—it’s about protecting your property, your family, and your ability to get insurance coverage.

Schedule an inspection today to ensure your electrical system is safe, reliable, and ready for the demands of modern living.