If your home has a Federal Pacific (FPE), Zinsco, or Challenger electrical panel, it's worth replacing, even if it seems to work. These panels have a documented tendency to fail to trip during an overload, which is why home inspectors and insurers flag them. Replacement with a modern 200 amp panel typically runs $3,000 to $5,000.
A circuit breaker has one job: cut power when a circuit draws too much current. The problem with these older panels is that the breaker may not cut power when it should, letting wiring overheat behind your walls. That's a latent fire risk that doesn't show up until something goes wrong.
If you're flagged on a home inspection or by your insurer, you can get a replacement estimate fast, our calculator gives a real range for your ZIP.
How to identify your panel
- Federal Pacific (FPE): often labeled "FPE" or "Stab Lok" on the panel face.
- Zinsco: sometimes branded GTE Sylvania; known for colorful breaker handles.
- Challenger: labeled "Challenger," with concerns similar to FPE.
Not sure what you have? A licensed electrician can identify it in minutes, and we'll tell you honestly whether it's a replace now situation or something you can plan for.
Why now is a good time
If you're going to replace the panel anyway, doing it as part of a 200 amp upgradegives you capacity for an EV charger, heat pump, or ADU at the same time, and in SCE territory, pairing it with an EV charger can unlock up to $4,200 back through Charge Ready Home.
Get a replacement estimate
Real range for your ZIP in two minutes, then we confirm on a free on site assessment.
Estimate my panel replacement →Related: Electrical panel upgrades, 200 amp panel upgrade cost, and the SCE $4,200 rebate. Safeway Construction, Lic. #1066117, 5.0 stars on Google.