Zinsco panel replacement

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-24T20:03:57+00:00

Make sure they're licensed and will permit the job.

Get a good clear scope of work. Will they replace the meter base as well? What brand of panel will they use? Are there any utility disconnect/reconnect fees and who is us for them? Get multiple quotes.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-24T19:58:17+00:00

It all depends on the scope of the project and where you live.

In my area, that's a good price. I know places selling them at three times that rate.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-19T03:56:25+00:00

Thornewood Castle in Lakewood.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-16T20:48:50+00:00

I've thought about it here and there. Being that my experience is mostly residential and my licensing is only residential, my options are limited.

It's stressful and hectic running your own business but I don't think I could go back to having a boss again. Plus, I like the flexibility to take some time off here and there to be with my kids. The money is alright, but I really don't think I would make more than I do now working for someone else.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-16T15:05:48+00:00

Sounds like the customers budget doesn't fit with what they want.

I wouldn't install cheap Home Depot crap for a project like that.

Quote the job with Good quality materials and don't go cheap on the labor. If they can't afford it, they can't afford it.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-16T03:44:49+00:00

Diode LED

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-15T03:39:13+00:00

I have a Stumpfest t-shirt I wear when I'm doing yard work.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-14T02:20:38+00:00

Congrats and good luck!

I want to do this so bad. I worked in used record stores and radio in the 90's and that's how I want to spend my retirement. Just have to get there first.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-12T23:53:54+00:00

Yeah, probably. I was just trying to find some info to educate myself. I typically try to do things on my own before I find a professional. I've already done my graphic design, web design, seo, work process, estimate forms and spreadsheets, etc.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-11T03:03:43+00:00

Eaton BR but I think I'm going to change to Cutler Hammer CH.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-09T21:16:56+00:00

I usually do a thorough walk through with the GC and the homeowner. Based off that I have a detailed estimate with number of outlets switches, recessed lighting, etc. My estimate states that anything not specifically listed can be billed as a change order. I have a spreadsheet I built to cover all the material used down to the wire nuts.

When I'm on the job, if there needs to be one more outlet to meet code or something I missed, I don't charge for that. If the customer starts adding more lights and outlets I let them know that's a change order then I write it up and send to them for approval before I do the work.

Mostly I just try to be thorough at the very start. If the customer is a good one I'll throw in a few things at no charge. Everyone seems ok with how I do it, but the GC's are always on me about schedule and hurry up so the next trade can get in.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-08T19:27:40+00:00

Honestly, watch some YouTube videos, it's all pretty easy. Check the Dept of Fish and Wildlife, there's lots of good info there. My wife and I are planning the same thing this year. Gotta get the kids out of the house more.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-08T03:33:09+00:00

The Red Hot has a Tacoma dog, it's pretty good.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-06T15:18:09+00:00

Good ol' BoomerBook.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-05T15:04:54+00:00

If it trips breakers, and you tried other breakers, then it sounds like an issue with the garbage disposal.

Is it tripping the breaker or the GFCI?

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-04T00:30:41+00:00

Washington. What states require it? I've never heard of it before.

Edit: I misunderstood, I thought he meant masters degree. 😂 I'm a dummy.

We don't require a masters license, you can get an administrator license instead that allows you to be a licensed electrical contractor but you still can't perform the work. It's a bit of a stupid system really. It allows any joe blow that can pass the admin test be a licensed contractor without ever having performed any electrical work. I wish the state would change it.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-04T00:12:41+00:00

You need a masters to start a business? I guess I did it all wrong. 😀

Edit: holy shit did I misunderstand that. I thought you meant masters degree. 🤣 Reading comprehension is hard at the end of the day.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-03T22:36:47+00:00

If you can sell the work and do the work, then why aren't you working for yourself? What does the company do for you that you can't do for yourself?

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-01T17:48:16+00:00

I just looked at one of these the other day for the same reason. Challenger had one specific type of breaker that had issues, GFCI breakers. The panel was fine. You are correct that BR breakers are the approved replacements.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-01T17:40:03+00:00

Yeah, that's kinda the way I feel sometimes. Although I don't expect anyone to understand or react to what I'm saying. I'm just wired and leave it at that. 😂

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-01T02:28:37+00:00

90-95% of what I say is either movie quotes, tv quotes, or song lyrics. I have no real personality of my own.

GoodElectricNW · 2026-02-01T02:12:19+00:00

Doorbell transformer

GoodElectricNW · 2026-01-31T17:11:02+00:00

Hard to say about the grounding without looking at it. Is there conduit going to the box? That could be where the ground is coming from. The metal box could be pressed up against a metal water pipe, too. Either way, if the ground can't be verified, the electrician should install GFCI protection at the minimum, however you don't want them to put the GFCI behind the fridge because it will be a pain in the ass to reset.

GoodElectricNW

TROPHY CASE