Most LA homes built before about 1950 have had their electrical updated in pieces. Expect some mix of
knob-and-tube wiring, a
fuse box or old panel,
two-prong ungrounded outlets and
small 60 to 100 amp service. The order to fix things: anything unsafe first, then the panel and service, then the circuits you use most. Want help? See our
home rewiring service.
What You’ll Usually Find
| What you’ll find | Usually from |
|---|
| Knob-and-tube wiring | Homes built before about 1940 |
| Fuse box or 60 amp service | Homes not updated since the 1950s |
| Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel | Updates from the 1950s to 1980s |
| Cloth-covered wiring | 1940s to 1960s |
| Two-prong, ungrounded outlets | Most pre-1960s wiring |
Fix It in This Order
- Anything unsafe now: scorched outlets, hot panels, oversized fuses or breakers.
- The panel and service: replace FPE, Zinsco and fuse boxes, and size the service for what you’ll add.
- Kitchens, bathrooms and laundry: the hardest-working circuits, plus GFCI protection.
- Bedrooms and living areas: grounded outlets and AFCI protection.
Want a licensed electrician to take a look? Ready Electric answers 24/7.
Protecting the Character of the House
Plaster walls, original trim and built-ins are worth saving. Good electricians fish wires through attics, crawl spaces and closets to keep openings small and patchable.
Historic Districts
Parts of Highland Park, Garvanza, Angelino Heights and Pasadena’s Bungalow Heaven are historic districts. Interior electrical work is generally fine, but exterior changes like a relocated meter or panel may need extra review.
Before You Buy an Older Home
Get an electrical inspection. Insurers often ask about knob-and-tube, fuse boxes and FPE or Zinsco panels, and the answers can affect your coverage and budget.
