A Zinsco panel is worth having a licensed electrician inspect, and InspectApedia, an inspection reference site, advises considering replacement. There was never a recall. A typical replacement in Orlando costs $1,500–$4,500, with the permit and inspection included.
How do I know if my panel is a Zinsco?
Look for Zinsco, or Sylvania, on the label inside the door. The breakers help too: InspectApedia calls them unique in appearance, and many people first notice their colored handles. Open the door, take a photo, and leave the inner cover alone.
What is the concern with Zinsco panels?
The concern is the point where each breaker grips the aluminum bus inside the panel. InspectApedia, an inspection reference site, reports burn-ups and arcing at those connections and cites claims that breakers failed to trip about 25% of the time under overcurrent, with nearly 32% in another passage. Treat those numbers as a warning from an inspector, not a measured failure rate.
Was there a Zinsco recall?
No. InspectApedia says there was never a mandatory recall. The federal review people often mention was about Federal Pacific breakers, not Zinsco.
Why replace a Zinsco panel?
Two practical reasons: what you can't see, and how hard it is to add anything to it.
- Age. You can't see a worn bus connection without opening the panel, which is exactly what an electrician's visit is for.
- Growth. Planning an EV charger or other big load? Sort out the panel first, and do the wiring once.
What happens on a Zinsco panel replacement?
- Inspect. With the cover off, the electrician checks the bus, breakers, wiring and meter connection.
- Quote. You get a firm number and decide. Nothing starts until you say so.
- Permit. The electrician pulls it through your city or county.
- Replace. New panel in, circuits moved and labeled.
- Pass inspection. Keep that record for your files and the next buyer.
How much does Zinsco panel replacement cost in Orlando?
A typical job costs $1,500–$4,500, and about $2,900 on average. Damage found on the meter side would add cost, and only a visit can reveal that. The panel upgrade cost guide breaks down the published prices, and the 200-amp upgrade page covers sizing up at the same time.
Can I get this done outside Orlando?
Yes. Winter Park, Kissimmee, Altamonte Springs, Sanford, Lake Mary, Apopka, Ocoee, Winter Garden and Maitland are all on the list. Older housing runs highest in Winter Park and Maitland. See areas served, then tell us about your panel and mention the name on the label.
Checking for more than the brand? See the warning signs in is my electrical panel dangerous?
Common questions
Is a Zinsco panel the same as a Sylvania panel?
They are linked. InspectApedia covers them together as Zinsco and Zinsco-Sylvania. If either name is on your label, mention it when you book.
Can I buy replacement Zinsco breakers?
You may find them, but InspectApedia advises against them, because the concern sits at the connection to the panel's bus as much as in the breaker. Talk to the electrician before spending money on parts.
What if the breakers look melted or burned?
Stop using that circuit and get an electrician out rather than waiting on a plan. If there is smoke or fire, leave and call 911.
