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Zinsco RC38-20 Miniature Circuit Breaker

  • 20A
  • 2 Pole
  • Plug-On
Zinsco RC38-20
Miniature Circuit Breaker
Brand Zinsco
SKU RC38-20
Select Item Condition
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  • 20A
  • 2 Pole
  • Plug-On

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Zinsco RC38-20 2 Pole Circuit Breaker

Zinsco RC38-20 - 20A 2 Pole Miniature Circuit Breaker

Re-Certified

$47.75 In Stock

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Description

Restoring power to vintage residential systems is simple with the Zinsco RC38-20 miniature circuit breaker. This 2-pole, 20-amp component delivers dependable thermal-magnetic protection for 120/240VAC branch circuits. Engineered to mount seamlessly into original Zinsco load centers, the plug-on breaker eliminates the need for retrofitting. For modern upgrades, this legacy unit is replaced by the UBIZ0220 substitute. It features a 10kAIC rating and common trip function.

Specifications

Key specifications
Brand Zinsco
Part Number RC38-20-R
Series R
Amperage 20A
Poles 2
Mounting Style Plug-On
Voltage 120/240VAC
Phase 1
AIC Rating 10kA @ 120/240VAC
Fit and installation
Terminal Type Box Lugs
For Use With Zinsco Load Centers
Wire Gauge 14-10 AWG (Cu/Al)
Max Wire 10 AWG
Min Wire 14 AWG
Protection and operation
Trip Technology Thermal Magnetic
Trip Function Code LI
Trip Function Long-Time, Instantaneous
Trip Adjustability Fixed
Standards and features
Standards UL 489
Approval UL, ETL
Temp Rating 40C
Construction Features Common Trip

Product FAQs

6 answers
What panels accept the Zinsco RC38-20 circuit breaker?

This breaker is designed exclusively for legacy Zinsco load centers that accept plug-in style breakers. It will not fit in modern panels from other manufacturers.

Is there a modern replacement available for the RC38-20?

Yes, Connecticut Electric manufactures a modern, UL-listed drop-in replacement for this obsolete breaker under the catalog number UBIZ0220.

How much panel space does the RC38-20 require?

The RC38-20 features a specialized thin design that fits a 2-pole configuration into a single mounting space, often referred to as a half-size breaker.

What is the difference between the Zinsco RC38-20 and the R38-20?

The RC38-20 is a 2-pole breaker with tied handles designed for a single 240V circuit. The R38-20 is a tandem breaker that provides two independent 120V single-pole circuits. They are not interchangeable.

How can I visually identify the amperage of an original RC38-20 breaker?

Original Zinsco breakers used a color-coded system for their toggles. The 20-amp RC38-20 is identified by its red toggle handles.

Are there safety concerns associated with original Zinsco breakers?

Yes, legacy Zinsco panels and breakers have documented safety issues, including a tendency to fail to trip during overcurrent events and poor busbar connections that can lead to arcing. Upgrading the panel or using modern replacement breakers is highly recommended.

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Reviews

5.0
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars
Based on 1 review
Rating
Ratings
1 review
  • EA
    Edward A.
    Flag of United States
    Reviewing
    Thomas & Betts RC38-30 2 Pole Circuit Breaker
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    8/13/20
    Perfect

    Thanks a lot.