How to Install Conduit From an Electric Meter to a Main Breaker Panel

Bringing power from a breaker panel into a new (or old) house can be a pain. It's risky, it's confusing, and it can be complicated unless you know what you're doing. This article describes the tools, materials and method for installing a conduit and bringing power from a breaker panel into your house. With caution and attention to detail, you can install a conduit like a professional.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver (flathead)
• Hammer
• Electric Drill
• Tape Measure (25 ft)
• Pliers
• 2 inch EMT connector (two)
• Hack Saw
• EMT coupling (one)
• 10 ft stick of EMT conduit
• EMT 1 hole strap (two)
• Level

1. Open the meter can and find the concentric knock out. Use your flathead screwdriver, place it on the concentric knock out and hit it with the hammer. Use your pliers to twist the knock out out of the meter can. Install the Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) connector into the knock out and screw the lock ring on. Use the hammer and flathead screwdriver to tighten the lock ring all the way.

2. Cut the 2-inch EMT pipe to the desired length with a hack saw and place the pipe inside the connector. Tighten the set screw completely.

3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for the breaker panel side. Use a 2-inch EMT coupling to connect the 2 pieces of pipe.

4. Use the level to level the piece of conduit. Place 1 EMT within 3 feet of the meter.

5. Use your drill and drywall screws to screw the conduit to the siding. Place the other EMT within 3 feet of the panel and use the drill and drywall screws to screw the conduit into the siding.

Tips & Warnings

• If any bends are needed, buy prefabricated offsets and/or pipes at a preset 90 degree angle.

Resources

• House Repair Talk