Wadsworth Panel

[mkiss1]

I inspected a home yesterday and found an old 100 AMP Wadsworth panel. It looks very unusual. I haven't inspected a panel like this before and I could not lift its front as it was painted over with several layers of paint. I couldn't open it without damaging the wall or fasteners. Does anyone have any experience with these panels?

Thanks!

Pictures are attached.

[Joshua L. Frederick]

Good panels, expensive breakers.

[Andrew MacDonald]

Maxim,
A very respected electrical contractor that I was on a consult with recommended that a Wadsworth panel be upgraded. He mentioned it in the same breath as an FP or Zinsco.

[Jeffrey R. Pope]

Originally Posted by amacdonald

Maxim,
A very respected electrical contractor that I was on a consult with recommended that a Wadsworth panel be upgraded. He mentioned it in the same breath as an FP or Zinsco.

I would have to disagree with that assessment. Other than the age of the system, there are no inherent issues with Wadsworth systems.

[Mark Thorman]

Originally Posted by mkiss1

I couldn't open it without damaging the wall or fasteners.

You dont cut the paint to remove the cover?

www.MauiHomeInspections.com

[ddelaney]

I'm with JP here. Wadsworth panels are a little hard to find breakers for in some areas, but they are very serviceable.

[mkiss1]

Thanks for advice guys! I explained to the client that the panel is ok but the breakers are hard to find. They are planning to replace the panel anyway when they buy the home.