How to Add an Electric Meter to an Existing Main Meter Base

Our modern lifestyles consume a large amount of electricity. This electricity usage is measured via an electrical meter installed on the main power wires coming from the street. Installing a meter in its base is a simple procedure that can be very dangerous if safe procedures are not followed. The power must be turned off at the street and double-checked it is off, before any work can proceed.

Non-contact voltage detector
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Contact your local electrical utility to turn the power off at the street. Make sure they double-check the power is off with two different clamp-on amp meters.
- 2
  Double-check the power is off by touching a non-contact voltage detector to the main wire's insulation. If the detector beeps or illuminates, there is still power in the wires.
- 3
  Open the cover on the meter base by removing the set screw and swinging it open with your hand.
- 4
  Align the meter so that it is oriented correctly with the connections in the meter base. There are typically four connection slots in the meter base that must line up with the meter's connectors.
- 5
  Push the meter into the meter base and close the door. Secure the door shut with the set screw.
- 6
  Contact your local building authority to inspect your installation.

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