1980s load centers and recalled GFCI breakers
Challenger Panel Inspection and Replacement Near You in Orem, UT
Challenger panels were common in homes built in the 1980s. In 1988 the CPSC announced a replacement program for certain Challenger GFCI breakers, and inspectors also report heat damage on some older Challenger panels. Our licensed Orem electricians inspect Challenger panels, replace recalled breakers and upgrade panels when needed, with same day service and a 24 hour line. For Challenger emergencies, we send an electrician near you as fast as we can.
How to identify Challenger equipment
- Challenger is embossed on the panel door handle or printed on the label.
- The 1988 recall covered HAGF-15 and HAGF-20 GFCI breakers with a yellow test button.
- Per the CPSC, affected breakers have the 15 or 20 rating in white on the handle and were made in early 1988.
The 1988 Challenger GFCI recall
Details from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
| Detail | What the CPSC said |
|---|---|
| Products | About 9,000 HAGF-15 and HAGF-20 single-pole GFCI breakers |
| Made | February 22 to April 29, 1988 |
| Problem | A part could come loose so the ground-fault feature stops working |
| Overload protection | Not affected |
| What to do | Have a licensed electrician inspect and replace it |
Source: CPSC recall 88-095. The company could no longer be reached at the original numbers.
Signs a Challenger panel needs attention
Beyond the recall, watch for these.
Discolored breakers
Heat damage at breakers or the bus.
GFCI test does nothing
The ground-fault feature may have failed.
Breakers loose in the panel
Poor contact can arc.
Burning smell
Call our emergency line.
What we do for Challenger owners
Inspect first, then repair or replace.
Electrical Safety Inspection
Checking for recalled breakers and heat damage.
Breaker Repair and Replacement
Replacing recalled or failing breakers with compatible parts.
Panel Upgrade
Full replacement when the panel is worn.
24/7 Emergency Electrical Repair
Urgent help for a hot panel.
We are an independent, licensed electrical contractor. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Challenger. Challenger is a trademark of its owner, used here only to describe the equipment we work on.
Safer power for older homes
Services for Challenger owners, other problem panels and nearby cities.
Related services
- Electrical Safety InspectionCheck for recall
- Breaker Repair and ReplacementBreakers
- Panel UpgradeReplacement
- 24/7 Emergency Electrical RepairHot panel
Nearby areas we cover
View every city we serveHelpful guides from our blog
- Buying a homeElectrical Red Flags in Older Homes
- Safety devicesGFCI vs AFCI Protection
Challenger questions
Was there a Challenger breaker recall?
Yes. In 1988 the CPSC announced a replacement program for about 9,000 Challenger HAGF-15 and HAGF-20 GFCI breakers.
How do I know if my breaker was recalled?
Recalled breakers have a yellow test button, a raised TEST label and the rating in white on the handle. Let an electrician confirm it.
Are all Challenger panels dangerous?
Not all, but inspectors report heat damage on some older ones. An inspection tells you where yours stands.
Can you get Challenger replacement breakers?
Compatible replacement breakers exist for some models. We confirm compatibility first.
Should I replace my Challenger panel?
If it shows heat damage, is full or has recalled breakers, replacement is often the best choice.
Have a Challenger panel?
We will check for recalled breakers and heat damage, then give you a clear plan.
Licensed through Utah DOPL and fully insured. Learn about our team.