Panel age and replacement need calculator
Enter the panel brand, its age, and any warning signs. You get a replace, plan, or monitor answer with a cost range.
Lifespan and cost ranges come from the Fix or Hire electrical panel repair-or-replace data. Brand concerns come from home inspector commentary. This is a screening tool, not an inspection. Never open the panel cover yourself.
How this calculator works
The calculator checks three things in order of urgency: warning signs (a warm, buzzing, or burnt-smelling panel), brand (Federal Pacific Stab-Lok, Zinsco and GTE Sylvania, Challenger, and Bulldog panels are the ones inspectors most often flag), and age against the typical 25 to 40 year panel life. Repeated tripping or running out of capacity points to an inspection.
It is a screening tool. Only an electrician can inspect the inside of a panel.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an electrical panel last?
Most last 25 to 40 years, and many last longer. Age alone is not a reason to replace, but a panel over 40 years old is worth having inspected.
Which electrical panels are considered unsafe?
Home inspectors commonly flag Federal Pacific Stab-Lok, Zinsco and GTE Sylvania, Challenger, and Bulldog panels. Reports of breakers that fail to trip are the main concern.
How much does it cost to replace an electrical panel?
The Fix or Hire data puts a typical replacement or capacity upgrade at $1,300 to $2,500, with an inspection costing about $100 to $260. Larger services and utility work cost more.
Related calculators
Last updated October 2026. Reviewed by the Fix or Hire editorial team. Estimates only, not a quote.