Conflicting vendor opinions

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Alison B.

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Location
Anaheim
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Apartment Owner/Manager
I have a 6-unit apartment building with a Zinsco breaker box. I would love to replace the system but will have to wait 12-18 months due to supply chain issues. In the meantime, one vendor proposed replacing the existing Zinsco 100-amp breaker box with a Square D 100 amp breaker box. A different vendor stated that the proposed work is not possible because Zinsco breakers cannot be replaced with anything but Zinsco. A third vendor agreed with the vendor who stated that breaker box can be replaced.
I want to do what is best for my building and residents. Any insights would be greatly appreciated.
 
If you remove the zinsco panel and all of it's breakers, you can put in whatever you like. Vendor #2 is mistaken, they're probably thinking of retaining the panel/box and replacing only the breakers inside.

That said, single phase 100a panels and breakers shouldn't be difficult to get. If they're of the same age, you might consider replacing the meter sockets at the same time. (Either way, the power has to go off for at least a few hours.)
 
All unit sub-panels were upgraded in October. My understanding is that a 7-meter stack (6-unit building) is required to upgrade the building's electrical system and the parts will not be available for 12-18 months. The Zinsco breaker box mentioned in the post is for the "house lights."
 
zbang said:
If you remove the zinsco panel and all of it's breakers, you can put in whatever you like. Vendor #2 is mistaken, they're probably thinking of retaining the panel/box and replacing only the breakers inside.

That said, single phase 100a panels and breakers shouldn't be difficult to get. If they're of the same age, you might consider replacing the meter sockets at the same time. (Either way, the power has to go off for at least a few hours.)
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Thank you very much for your response. I truly appreciate it.
 
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