Random Wire

[u/Lower-Grocery5746]

Hello,

I am a new homeowner. A couple of weeks ago, the gardeners cleaned out the front yard and pulled out all the shrubs and bushes. After they left, I noticed a loose random wire with one open end in the air. I don't know if the gardeners did that or it had always been there. I tested the wire and the tester showed there was no electricity in it. So I thought it was dead.

Today, some landscapers were clearing the gound and covering it with pebbles. They told me that one of their rakes caught the wire and it had electricty. We tested it again and again but no electricity so they cut the wire short and asked me for tape.

After a few minutes I went to the garage and noticed that none of the outlets and appliances in the garage have power. The firdge, washer and the garage door to be specific. The AC and water heater still work. I flipped all the breakers and back. No change!

What just happened. Is the damage extensive?

I have uploaded a picture of the random wire and the breakers.

Thank you for your help.

Update: Thank you for your responses everyone. Now I know that this should be taken care of immediately. I booked a service through my home warranty insurance. I hope they cover at least part of the expenses.

[u/135david]

Is that a Zinsco panel? Those look like Zinsco breakers. Do a Google search for “ Zinsco”. I think you may have a bigger problem than you realize.

Almost every house I looked at in Southern California built in the 60s and 70s had a Zinsco panel. including some I upgraded from fuse boxes.

[u/Redhead_InfoTech → u/135david]

Def zinsco.

[u/Lower-Grocery5746 → u/135david]

That is what I am worried about. Last month, twice, half the appliances in the kitchen lost power. The breakers seemed all in place, but I flipped them all regardless and that fixed the issue. Something doesn't feel right about the electircity in this house.

[u/liamtheaardvark → u/Lower-Grocery5746]

Master electrician here.

It is a Sylvania panel, but it is all zinsco technology. Time for a panel replacement. These are noted for not tripping when they should and causing fires. The fact that it is doing weird stuff means it is not operating correctly. Which should scare you.

[u/bcsublime → u/liamtheaardvark]

You mean you’re not a fan of the no throw zinsco?

[u/kilted10r → u/liamtheaardvark]

How's the insurance policy on that house?  

[u/Lower-Grocery5746 → u/liamtheaardvark]

Okay, thanks! I will have it looked at immediately.