ELECTRICAL PANEL RESOURCES
Pushmatic Electrical Panels
Pushmatic electrical panels are commonly found in older homes and are known for their distinctive push-button circuit breakers. Learn how to identify a Pushmatic panel, understand its history, and know when it's a good idea to have your electrical system professionally evaluated.
UNDERSTANDING PUSHMATIC PANELS
What Is a Pushmatic Electrical Panel?
Pushmatic electrical panels were widely installed in residential homes during the mid-20th century and are recognized by their unique push-button breakers instead of the toggle-style breakers used in most modern panels. Many Pushmatic panels have remained in service for decades and are still found in homes across the country.
While these panels were considered durable for their time, many homeowners choose to have them professionally evaluated as they age. An inspection can help determine whether the panel continues to meet your home's electrical needs or whether upgrading to a modern electrical panel may be beneficial.
HOW TO IDENTIFY ONE
Signs Your Home May Have a Pushmatic Panel
Push-Button Breakers
Pushmatic panels use push-button breakers rather than the lever-style breakers found in most modern electrical panels.
Bulldog or ITE Branding
Many Pushmatic panels display the Bulldog or ITE name on the panel door or inside the enclosure.
Older Homes
These panels are commonly found in homes built or updated between the 1950s and 1970s.
Professional Inspection
If you're unsure what type of panel you have, a licensed electrician can identify it during a professional electrical safety inspection.
SHOULD YOU REPLACE IT?
When to Consider a Professional Evaluation
Many Pushmatic panels continue to operate after decades of service. However, aging electrical equipment, changing electrical demands, and plans for future home improvements are all good reasons to have your panel professionally evaluated.
A licensed electrician can assess your panel's condition, explain how it compares to modern electrical systems, and help you decide whether continued use or an upgrade is the best option for your home.
Questions About Pushmatic Electrical Panels
Pushmatic panels are one of the more distinctive older electrical panel designs still found in homes today. Here are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners ask when learning more about these panels.
What is a Pushmatic electrical panel?
Pushmatic electrical panels are older residential electrical panels that use push-button circuit breakers instead of traditional toggle breakers. They were commonly installed in homes from the 1950s through the 1970s and remain in service in many homes today.
How do I know if I have a Pushmatic panel?
The easiest way to identify a Pushmatic panel is by its distinctive push-button breakers. Many panels also display the Bulldog or ITE name. If you're unsure, a licensed electrician can identify your panel during a professional inspection.
Are Pushmatic electrical panels unsafe?
Not necessarily. Many Pushmatic panels have provided reliable service for decades. However, because these panels are older and replacement parts can be more difficult to find, many homeowners choose to have them professionally evaluated to determine whether an upgrade would better meet their current and future electrical needs.
Should I replace my Pushmatic electrical panel?
The answer depends on the condition of your panel, your home's electrical demands, and your future plans. A professional electrical safety inspection can help determine whether your existing panel continues to be a good fit or if upgrading is recommended.
Can Copper & Company inspect my Pushmatic panel?
Yes. Copper & Company provides free electrical safety inspections to identify your electrical panel, evaluate its condition, and discuss whether an upgrade is appropriate based on your home's electrical system and future plans.
LEARN MORE
Related Electrical Resources
Ready to Make Your Home Safer?
We’ll inspect your electrical system, answer your questions, and provide honest recommendations.
Schedule Free InspectionTRUSTED SOLUTIONS FOR SAFER, MORE RELIABLE POWER THROUGHOUT YOUR HOME
Our Electrical Services
Whether you need a safer electrical panel, more power for your home, or new electrical installations, our licensed electricians provide solutions designed for today's homes.
Electrical Modernization
Whether you need a safer electrical panel, more power for your home, or new electrical installations, our licensed electricians provide solutions designed for today's homes.
Learn More ->
Main Panel Upgrades
Discover when it's time to replace your electrical panel, what the process looks like, and how a new panel can power your home's future.
Learn More ->
Electrical Improvements
Whether you're adding an EV charger, installing a dedicated circuit, or expanding with a subpanel we'll help ensure your home's electrical system is ready to safely support it.
Learn More ->