The Hidden Danger of Split-Bus Electrical Panels: A Fire Risk That Doesn’t Trip
Posted by North By Northwest services April 30, 2025
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What Is a Split-Bus Panel?
If your home was built between the 1960s and early 1980s, there’s a good chance it may contain a split-bus electrical panel—a system that was once standard, but now presents serious risks. Unlike modern panels, split-bus panels do not have a main breaker to shut off all power. Instead, they divide power between large appliances and general circuits, making complete disconnection impossible without cutting utility power entirely.
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Real-World Fire Hazard: What I Witnessed Firsthand
I’ve personally seen two split-bus panels catch on fire, including one incident that unfolded right in front of me. What you’ll see in the photos below is evidence of how these panels can fail catastrophically:
[Photo 1 here: Wide view of scorched panel]
Smoke damage surrounding the electrical panel, indicating a severe internal arc.
[Photo 2 here: Close-up of melted breakers]
Breakers that continued to arc and burn, because no main breaker was present to interrupt the power.
[Photo 3 here: Damaged wiring]
Insulation burned away, exposing live conductors.
These panels are often 40 to 60 years old and may have never been inspected. Age, increased electrical load, and w worn connections create a perfect storm for failure.
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Why Split-Bus Panels Are Dangerous
• No Main Breaker: In an emergency, power keeps flowing to parts fire.
