Our Blog

Your Neighborhood Electricians, Plumbers, Heating & Air
Service Providers in San Diego, CA since 1988

hero photo
4 minutes read

Why Insurance Companies Are Requiring Zinsco and Federal Pacific Panel Replacements in San Diego

Published by Webmaster

For many homeowners in San Diego, Zinsco and Federal Pacific electrical panels were once the standard for home electrical systems. However, as time has passed, these once-common panels have developed serious safety concerns. As a result, insurance companies are now requiring their replacement. If you own an older home, this could impact you.

At Point Loma Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, we are experts in inspecting and replacing these electrical panels to meet insurance requirements and keep your home safe.

Why Are Zinsco and Federal Pacific Panels a Problem?

Zinsco and Federal Pacific panels have been linked to several safety hazards, which is why they’re no longer used in modern homes. The two main issues are:

  1. Breaker Failure: In many cases, the breakers in these panels fail to trip when they should. This means that when there’s an electrical overload or short circuit, instead of shutting off the power to prevent a fire, the panel continues to send power through the system—posing a significant fire risk.
  2. Overheating and Melting: Over time, the electrical connections in Zinsco and Federal Pacific panels can loosen, causing the breakers and wiring to overheat. This can lead to melted components inside the panel, further increasing the risk of electrical fires.

Because of these dangerous issues, many insurance companies have taken notice. They now see these panels as a liability and are requiring homeowners to replace them to maintain coverage.

What Does This Mean for San Diego Homeowners?

If you have an older home in San Diego, there’s a good chance you may still have a Zinsco or Federal Pacific panel installed. Homeowners across the region are receiving notices from their insurance companies that replacement is mandatory. Ignoring this could lead to higher premiums or even a loss of coverage.

Additionally, many buyers and sellers of older homes in San Diego are discovering that these panels are flagged during inspections, leading to delays in closing real estate transactions.

How Point Loma Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air Can Help

At Point Loma Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, we specialize in inspecting, identifying, and replacing Zinsco and Federal Pacific electrical panels. Our team has the expertise to ensure your electrical system meets modern safety standards and complies with your insurance company’s requirements. We offer:

  • Comprehensive Inspections: We’ll thoroughly inspect your current panel to determine if it’s one of the affected models and assess any immediate dangers.
  • Panel Replacement Services: Our expert technicians will safely replace your outdated panel with a modern, code-compliant solution that enhances the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system.
  • Peace of Mind: We understand the insurance requirements, and we’ll provide the documentation needed to ensure you’re fully covered and compliant.

Don’t Wait—Protect Your Home and Stay Insured

If you’re unsure whether your home still has a Zinsco or Federal Pacific panel, don’t wait for an issue to arise or for your insurance company to issue a replacement notice. Protect your home and your family by scheduling an inspection with Point Loma Electric and Plumbing today.

With decades of experience serving the San Diego area, we’re here to help you make the necessary upgrades to keep your home safe and insured.

Contact us today to schedule your inspection or to learn more about our expert panel replacement services.

Back to News

Reviews

Hear It From Your Neighbors

icon

April 2025

I am very pleased with this company because they have great people working for them. [My technician] was organized and all were at the house in 2 days. Paper booties were worn. The electricians knew what they were doing and produce excellent work. I had 3 new circuits put in along with updating box. All this was done in one day. This co also sends a pix of technician who is coming to your house. Every person had lovely manners, and cleaned up, even vacuumed under stove when it was moved. A fine experience and I’d use them again.

Carol M.

icon

April 2025

I had a water leak at my house and its cause was extremely difficult to find. Our tech spent a long time carefully analyzing and testing all possible options until he found the cause of the leak, like really a true detective, that nobody else before him was able to find. He demonstrated not only that he is a truly top professional but the he also is kind, patient and understanding. He explained all the issues very well and was also mindful of my time and convenience. He works very fast, efficiently and reliably and is extremely nice human being.

Zofia D.

icon

April 2025

Point Loma Electric and Plumbing did electrical work in our house once and we liked the service the first time so we called them again. The technicians have been nothing but friendly and professional both times. They walked us through every step of the process. They showed up on time and completed the work in a timely manner. If we had any concerns they made sure the address them, if anything was needed, they handled it. We will definitely use Point Loma Electric and Plumbing again. Johnny who oversaw the work is the best!! Thank you

Tonya W.

icon

January 2025

Had an emergency water heater leak. Called Point Loma. Within the hour, James shows up and goes to work. And by the next day, we have a tankless water heater up and running. Thanks to James for the excellent customer attention, service and hard work!

Christine M.

icon

March 2025

Always great to work with them - years 2011 for new electrical panel, and 2025 for some minor upgrades. Erich and Leo corrected 3 problems with old wiring we were having. Very great team and very much appreciate their work.

Joleen L.

icon

May 2025

My a/c has not been working for some time. I called Point Loma Electrical and they sent Nicholas Mullins to stop by and check it out. What a great guy. He was very respectful, honest, evaluated the situation and made recommendations that I felt were straight forward. This company is top notch and I would recommend them to any of my friends and family. This is now my go to ac repair company.

Renae B.

icon

May 2025

We had Point Loma Elec rewire our entire 62 year-old house's electric. They worked efficiently and were thorough letting us know what was discovered and done each day. Timely, neat, and responsive and affordable with great financing. Highly recommend.

Lisa S.

icon

February 2025

This is a great team. I had to replace some fluorescent lights in the kitchen. I couldn't do it myself because the ballasts had to be replaced and that's above my skill level. Anthony and Matt came today and put in new led lights (with a 10 year warranty- fluorescent lights are ancient tech). Anthony and Matt were very professional and efficient. I would recommend them highly!

Jeffrey J.

Just One Call - We Can Handle It All.

Your Neighborhood Electricians, Plumbers, Heating & Air
Service Providers in San Diego, CA.

Schedule Online