Outdated Electrical Panels that Need to Go: Part 4
And Our Final Panel Is…
The last outdated electrical panel in our series is the Challenger brand panel. These electrical panels saw widespread installation between the 1970s and the 1990s. Although we strongly recommend replacing our previous panels, the decision to replace this one remains uncertain.
Why You Should “Consider” Replacing Your Challenger Panel
The life expectancy of an electrical panel typically ranges from 20-40 years, which puts this in the range of becoming obsolete. This brand has faced considerable scrutiny over the years because of its business associations with Federal Pacific and Zinsco brands. However, unlike the previous brands their bus system was not the issue.
There are certain limitations to consider if you have a Challenger panel.
Issues with Challenger Electrical Panels
Known issues include:
- Older type “C” breakers had known issues that would cause them to not trip on overload.
- Certain insurers refuse coverage for homes with Challenger panels.
- Panels of this age are considered obsolete.
Possible Fix
Since the issue was with the older type “C” circuit breakers a potential repair would be to replace these breakers. Eaton is currently the owner of the brand, and their BR style breakers can serve as a replacement for the older “C” type breakers. Although this option costs significantly less, it is recommended that a licensed electrician inspect the bus system to ensure it hasn’t sustained any damage. Because putting a new breaker on a burnt or melted bus bar will not fix the issue and is a recipe for disaster.
Follow-up
Here are links to two excellent articles:
- Challenger panels are fine – Structure Tech Home Inspections
- Challenger Electrical Panels – Are They Safe? | Texas Panel Pros
Conclusion:
Although Challenger panels may not present as significant a risk as some previously mentioned brands due to their age and limited insurance coverage, it is advisable to consider replacing them. At the very least hire a licensed electrical contractor to inspect the panel and make sure it has the proper breakers installed and is safe to continue using.