Does your meter base need to be replaced?

One of the best ways to ensure the safety and longevity of your home’s electrical system is to replace your electric meter base and service cables if they are damaged or corroded. The meter base is the metallic housing that contains the electric meter, which measures the electricity usage in your home. It connects the utility company’s overhead or underground power lines to your internal electrical system, allowing for the flow of electricity to your lights and appliances.

The sheathing on this overhead cable has completely disintegrated- exposing energized wires!

Does your meter base look a little scary? If the sheathing is falling off the main cable, exposing the wires inside, the risks of short-circuiting wires or potential shocks increase. If straps have come loose from the wall, or the wires look frayed, it may be time for a replacement.

What’s the difference between replacing and upgrading? Installing a like-for-like replacement is a great option if you are happy with your available power supply.

This 200-amp meter base replacement included installing a code-compliant meter-disconnect combo and conduit securing all cables inside.

Upgrading is a better option if you would like to increase the load on your home’s system (add an EV charger or hot tub for example) but do not have the capacity in your current service. Prior to the 1980’s, 100-, 125- and 150-amp electrical services were all common in a typical home. However, with the advent of electric heat, EVs and on-demand water heaters, more power is necessary for a modern home. Upgrading to a 200-amp service is the new standard for older homes.

This 400-amp service required two main disconnects (breakers) as there were two main breaker panels inside

Make sure to inspect your meter base yearly and check for signs of corrosion, rust, loose cables, or cable sheathing decaying or falling off entirely. If the connections inside the meter base are compromised, you may hear arcing electricity—similar to a static or sizzling sound, smell burnt wires, or even see sparks or flashes of light. Don't touch the equipment and call your electric utility company if any of these signs are present.

This meter base services a brand-new electrical service on an RV garage, to power lights, receptacles, and the RV charger inside. Sometimes it's easier to have your electric utility install a second meter, instead of pulling a circuit off of your first meter. Adding a second meter is ideal if your outbuilding or other structure (pool, barn, etc.) is a far distance from your home, or if there are obstacles like wide driveways or a cluster of trees in the way.

Every electrical item in your home is powered by electricity that travels through your meter base, so it's vital to ensure that it stays safe and functional. Give us a call today at 540-552-5397 for a free estimate to replace or upgrade your service!