Most people don’t think about their meter can until something goes wrong. If you notice symptoms of a failing meter can, it’s important to get this problem addressed right away. The meter can plays a vital role in protecting your electrical system, so damaged units should be promptly replaced.
What Is a Meter Can?
The meter can is a weatherproof enclosure that houses your electric meter. It protects the electric meter and meter socket from the elements. Normally, these enclosures are made of steel or aluminum. You may also hear the can referred to as the meter base as well. However, the meter base is technically the mounting and connection assembly itself.
It’s important to note that the meter can is different from the meter. If your meter starts to fail, you’ll typically need to call your utility provider to get a replacement. However, this only works in some jurisdictions. While the utility provider owns the meter in some areas, the meter is owned by the homeowner in other areas.
Signs You Have a Failing Meter Can
From overheated electrical wires to corrosion, there are a few common issues that can cause your meter can to fail. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should reach out to our licensed electricians for help.
Corrosion
Rust and corrosion are signs that you need a new meter can. Because this component is outdoors, it is exposed to Alabama’s humid weather. Over time, rain and humidity can cause the metal to rust.
A little rust is normally not a major issue. If you notice rust that flakes or moves when you touch it, then the structural integrity of the meter can is beginning to deteriorate. In this situation, you likely need a replacement.
You should pay particular attention to any corrosion that happens around the connection points or lugs. When connections rust, it leads to more resistance and potential heat damage.
Burn Marks
Discoloration and dark spots are likely signs that your meter can is overheating. Whenever electrical components experience too much resistance, it can cause the components to overheat. Often, this is due to corrosion or loose parts. Unfortunately, this problem cannot be resolved on its own.
Besides burn marks, you may also notice weird odors. If the meter can is opened up, you may also notice that the inside appears charred.
These symptoms should always be addressed right away. If overheated components are not fixed, it can result in a fire.
Damaged Housing
Cracked plastic and damaged housing can no longer do their job. A warped metal base allows moisture and insects to get inside. Once the moisture reaches the internal components, it increases the likelihood of damage and fires.
Whole-House Flickering
When a single light flickers inside your home, the problem is normally connected to a single fixture or circuit. If your entire house dims at once, there is an underlying cause that is affecting your entire home. Because your meter can is central to your entire wiring setup, it’s possible that something is wrong with the meter can or meter.
Loose Seals
Your meter should be secure within the meter can. If it moves at all, then the base is likely warped. Because of the added movement, arcing and other internal issues can occur.
Unexpected Outages
When the power goes out, take a look at your neighbor’s house. If your home is the only building without power, it means that something is likely wrong with your electrical system. The meter and service connection link your home to the utility provider, so these components are prime culprits when power goes out.
Old Equipment
While meter cans are able to last 25 to 40 years, exposure to the elements can shorten their expected lifespan. If your meter can is already several decades old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
What To Expect When Getting a Replacement
If you need a meter can replacement, our team can help. This isn’t an easy repair project, so don’t try to do it on your own. Before we can safely remove the old meter can, the utility provider must disconnect your power first. We also need to perform a full inspection and apply for permits before the work can begin. Because of the safety issues involved, it is important that the replacement is done correctly.
Once our team arrives on the day of the replacement, we will quickly work to remove your failed unit. We will install the correct base for your electrical setup and verify your grounding. After the installation is complete, we’ll reach out to the utility provider to get your electricity turned on again.
When To Seek Help Right Away
Electrical malfunctions can be potentially dangerous, which is why it’s so important to get professional help if you are concerned about unusual symptoms. As soon as you notice the following situations, you should immediately call our electricians or your utility provider.
- Visible melting or scorching
- Water intrusion
- Loose mounting
- Sparking
- Burning smells
- Crackling sounds
Schedule Professional Repairs in Birmingham
Your home’s electrical systems must be properly maintained. When electrical components become damaged, it can increase the likelihood of property damage, fire, and electric shock.
Fortunately, a failing meter can is often a relatively quick fix. Once you reach out to our experienced team of licensed electricians, we can schedule a full inspection. If your meter can must be replaced, our team can communicate with your utility provider, determine the permits needed, and complete the installation.
Whether you’re dealing with water intrusion or extensive corrosion, our team is here to help. Give us a call today to get your electrical problem repaired.
Don’t put up with any malarkey, call Mister Sparky!
