An electrical meter tracks how much electricity you use so that you can be billed accurately. This is not a part of your home that requires frequent replacement.
In fact, you probably rarely think of your meter at all unless there is a problem. However, meters do wear out over time, and they may also need to be replaced if they are damaged or there are code changes or electrical upgrades.
In the article below, you’ll learn more about risks to your meter, the signs of a problem and how to know when you need a replacement.
Quick Takeaways
- Electrical meters may last for upwards of 20-30 years.
- Replacement may be necessary if there is corrosion or other damage or you need electrical upgrades.
- If your meter can is loose or damaged, it may be unsafe.
- Your utility company may require replacement if you are not code compliant.
- Don’t ignore visible damage, flickering lights or brief power outages.
- Inspection and replacement of unsafe meters must be performed by a licensed electrician.
What Does an Electrical Meter Do?
An electrical meter is located on the outside of your house. It connects your home to your utility’s power supply and measures how much electricity you use for billing purposes.
The meter itself is the gauge. This is different from the meter can, which is the enclosure for the meter.
How Long Do Electrical Meters Last?
Electrical meters usually last for 20-30 years or more. This is often longer than the meter can, which may wear out before your meter does.
Environmental exposure, including extremes of heat and humidity, can affect the lifespan of your electrical meter. Usually, the utility company owns the meter while you own the meter can.
Signs Your Electrical Meter or Meter Can May Need Replacement
- Visible rust or corrosion – Light rust that can be removed is usually not an issue, but severe rust or corrosion is.
- Cracked or damaged meter base – If there are cracks or broken glass, do not touch the meter or meter can.
- Loose meter or shifting inside housing – Age, weather and structural issues around your home may all cause this.
- Flickering or inconsistent power – This may be your first indication that there is corrosion or other damage to your meter or meter can.
- Burning smell or heat near meter – You should consider this an emergency.
- Water intrusion inside meter can – This can cause a short circuit, rust or corrosion.
Common Reasons Electrical Meters Need Replacement
Physical Damage or Corrosion
Severe weather may damage your meter, but over time, intense sun or other weather conditions can also wear it out. Even in mild conditions, the meter and meter can will age. Rust can weaken connections, which increases the risk of a power failure or even a fire.
Electrical Service Upgrades
Upgrades are common if your power demands increase. This could be because of a gradual change in needs or because you are installing new appliances or other devices, such as an EV charger. An example would be upgrading your electrical panel from 100 to 200 amps or more.
Code Compliance Requirements
If your meter base is old, it may not meet current code requirements. In some cases, you may need to replace it before the utility company will reconnect service.
Loose or Failing Connections
This can lead to overheating or interruptions in your power. It can also cause arcing, which is the term for electricity jumping between two loose connections, creating sparks that can be a fire hazard.
Is a Damaged Meter a Safety Risk?
Yes, a damaged meter can shock you or start a fire. When connections are loose or there is corrosion, this can create what is known as “resistance points.” These are places where the electrical flow is blocked, which creates intense heat.
This heat can damage your wiring and increase the likelihood of a fire. If there is water intrusion, which can happen even if there are only small cracks, the risk of an electrical shock goes up as well.
Meter Repair vs. Meter Replacement: What’s the Right Choice?
It may be possible to seal minor cracks or to tighten some loose connections. However, in most situations, a full meter can replacement is necessary.
This is usually the right remedy for corrosion or structural damage or if you need to upgrade in order to be code compliant. At all times, when it comes to your meter and other electrical issues, you need to prioritize safety over temporary fixes. The risk of a catastrophic fire or electrical shock is simply too high otherwise.
When to Call an Electrician for Meter Can Replacement
It’s time to call an electrician if you notice visible damage to the meter base or you’re having ongoing electrical issues.
You should also reach out to an electrician about any planned service upgrades, utility company notices or code compliance requirements. If you live in an older house, your equipment may be out of date.
We can troubleshoot your meter issue and provide meter can replacement services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my electrical meter needs to be replaced?
If your electrical meter shows signs of serious corrosion or rust, you need a replacement. You may need a replacement if it is cracked or there is loose wiring. Flickering power can also indicate a need for replacement.
Who is responsible for replacing the electrical meter?
The electrical meter belongs to the utility company and is the company’s responsibility. The meter can belongs to you and is your responsibility.
Can a bad meter cause electrical problems in my home?
Yes, loose or damaged connections can cause flickering lights or power outages. They can also create a fire hazard.
Is replacing a meter can a big job?
A licensed electrician must coordinate with the utility company to have the power turned off. The electrician can also pull any necessary permits and ensure that the replacement is code compliant.
Schedule Meter Can Replacement in Daytona, FL
Our licensed electricians at Mister Sparky of Daytona will coordinate with the utility company to provide safe, code-compliant meter can replacement.
We know that when there’s an issue with your electrical meter, you can’t afford to wait. We’re Daytona’s on-time electrician, and our service is fast and reliable.
You can count on us for electrical service throughout the Daytona, FL area. Don’t put up with any malarky! Contact Mister Sparky of Daytona today for meter can replacement.