If you’re having problems with your electric meter box, you may be tempted to replace it yourself to save time and money. However, your meter box houses the device that measures your home’s electrical consumption, and tampering with it yourself could cause a lot more electrical complications. Read on to find out what a replacement involves and why doing it yourself isn’t a good idea.
Should You Replace the Electric Meter Box Yourself?
Any electrical system inside or outside of your home requires special handling by someone who is licensed and knowledgeable of the local electrical codes. When you attempt to replace the electric meter box yourself, you’ll run into a variety of potentially dangerous issues.
You’ll Face Safety Issues
Attempting to replace the box yourself could lead to electric shocks or burns. Professional electricians have years of experience, knowing what steps to take when replacing electric meter boxes. Without this kind of training, you could create a fire hazard.
You Lack the Legal Requirements
Only licensed electricians are authorized to replace electric meter boxes. Replacing the box means you must have knowledge of wiring, electrical codes, and the requirements set out by the utility company. Without this knowledge, you’re working blind, and that can be dangerous.
You Lack the Technical Knowledge
It’s probably a good bet you don’t have the technical knowledge to uninstall and install a meter box properly. Keep in mind that if you install the replacement box incorrectly, you could damage your electrical system or cause some kind of electrical malfunction.
You Don’t Have Your Utility Company’s Approval
Utility companies must abide by industry standards and regulations when installing electrical systems in homes, including electric meter boxes. If you don’t have their approval, you may not install it well enough to meet the required standards. Worse, a DIY job could void the warranty you have with your utility provider.
The Steps Electricians Take When They Replace Electric Meter Boxes
To understand why you should leave the replacement job to a licensed electrician, let’s look at the steps involved.
To avoid electrical shocks, fires, or burns, electricians first ensure that the power is turned off. This step is done by your utility company. Once the power is disconnected, electricians use a voltage tester to confirm that no electricity is flowing.
Electricians will then remove your old meter box and detach the socket from the building. This step requires precision to avoid damage to the surrounding electrical components.
Next, electricians thread a new electrical cable through the wall and connect it to a new meter socket. A weather head and a metal pipe (conduit) are also attached outside, above the socket. Electricians strap these tightly in place. Lastly, they put copper ground rods into the ground and connect the wires.
Once the new meter box has been installed, electricians will have your power restored and test everything to ensure it’s working properly.
Signs Your Electric Meter Box Needs to Be Replaced
Not sure if it’s time to replace your electric meter box? Here are signs it’s time to install a new one.
A Burning Smell
A burning smell usually means a wire or something electrical is burning inside your meter box. This is a serious electrical issue, and you should make an appointment with an electrician as soon as possible.
Damaged Meter Box
If your meter box is corroded or damaged, it can’t effectively protect the wires inside. This is a major safety hazard, and you should think about replacing the box as soon as you can.
Circuit Breaker Trips Frequently
If your circuit breaker is tripping frequently, it could mean that your meter box can’t handle the electrical load.
Hot to the Touch
If your meter box is hot when you touch it, this means it’s overheating. This is a fire hazard and should be attended to immediately.
Old
Some electric meter boxes are just old. If your meter box has deteriorated and is showing its age, it’s time for a replacement.
Outdated Model
If your meter box is an outdated model, it may not have some of the new safety features. Updating to a new model could reduce or even eliminate fire hazards.
Maintaining Your New Meter Box
To ensure your new meter box lasts for years, there are specific maintenance steps you can take.
Leave the Area Around It Unobstructed
Since electric meter boxes sit outside homes, it’s easy for them to be obstructed by debris or overgrown vegetation. Check your meter box every few months to remove debris and trim back vegetation.
Keep It Dry and Clean
Meter boxes are constantly exposed to the elements, including rain, mud, and dust. Try to keep your meter box clean and wipe away any moisture, especially after it rains.
Look for Damage
Every so often, inspect your meter box for signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or burning smells. If you see damage, make an appointment with an electrician.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Make sure the area around the meter box is free of clutter. This helps prevent overheating and reduces the risk of moisture buildup.
Our Electricians Can Help!
When you contact our team at Mister Sparky, Gainesville, we’ll perform a thorough inspection and assessment of your electric meter box, taking notes of any damage or wear and tear. We also check for safety hazards, overloaded circuits, and outdated equipment.
An additional part of our inspection is ensuring your electric meter box is code-compliant and up to date. If it isn’t, we’ll make recommendations on what you can do to bring it up to code.
When it’s time to replace your electric meter box, don’t put up with any malarky. Call Mister Sparky! We’re open 24 hours and can meet all your electrical needs.
