Fused panels, automatic defect, upgrade, or what?

[Carl E. Nagy]

Are old main and range panels considered a recommended upgrade? I assume they would not be a defect automatically, although most I see have other issues such as double taps, over fusing, double taps on neutral bars, poor wire condition, etc. What about rejection fuses? Is lack of type S rejection fuse a defect or an upgrade? Thanks ahead....

[Larry D. Kage]

There is nothing wrong with fuses in and of themselves but given additional problems mentioned and often a 60 amp service an upgrade recommendation can be warranted.

[Joe Funderburk, CMI]

I generally say something like:

"The (main or sub panel) employs obsolete, screw-in, fuses that should be evaluated by an electrician with a view to upgrading the system. Fused panels may be considered dangerous because of the ease of inserting a fuse larger than that required by the branch circuit."