How to Disconnect Electric Meters

Electric meters must be disconnected by company officials.

The electric meter on the outside of a house or business keeps track of how much electricity is being used. It is the property of the electric company. For most electrical work, a homeowner can simply switch off power at the home's breaker box. But for some jobs, like working on the breaker box, disconnecting power at the electric meter might be needed. Disconnecting power at the meter involves contacting the electric company, because it is illegal to change or disturb the meter without doing so.

Instructions

1. Determine how much time is needed for the meter to be disconnected. Research how long your task usually takes. For example, siding installation one a reason why a meter might need to be removed. Coordinate with workers and contractors to see how long the meter will be down.

2. Call the electric company to set up a time for a company official to come out and disconnect the meter. Sometimes the company can schedule an appointment for disconnection over the phone.

3. Schedule an appointment for the meter to be reconnected or turned back on, giving ample time for all work to be done. This can be done while scheduling the first appointment, or in another phone call.

4. Watch the technician disconnect the meter to ensure that there is no electricity in the home. This helps prevent accidental electrocution.

5. Complete the needed work as quickly and efficiently as possible to make sure reconnection happens as soon as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Disconnecting or unsealing the meter without permission is both physically dangerous and a crime.

References

• SE-MA-NO: Meter Tampering
• Richmond Power and Light: Know How Your Meter Works