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How to Cap a Meter Socket

An electric meter socket pertains to the set of terminal lugs and clips inside an electric meter box. It is the part of the meter box where you plug an electric meter. The socket is divided into two areas -- the lower half and the upper half. The upper half contains the clips and lugs that receives the cable running from the power company. The lower half holds the clips and lugs where the cables running from the electrical panel are connected. To cap a meter socket, you must plug the electric meter, rear end first, onto the meter socket.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Look into the circular opening in front of the meter box. Look closely at the two pairs of terminal lugs lying adjacent to each other. Note that each pair has two lugs that are vertically aligned to each other. See the prongs behind the electric meter and observe that each of these prongs will plug into a matching clip on the meter socket.

    • 2

      Sit the electric meter on a flat surface with its glass dome facing up. Grab the electric meter by its glass dome, then hold the meter upright directly in front of the circular meter box opening, with the dome facing towards you. Look at the letters and numbers on the meter dial to make sure the meter is not upside down.

    • 3

      Slide the rear of the meter slowly into the opening. Allow each of the four prongs to slip into each clip in the meter socket. Push the meter onto the socket until the meter is snugly fitted. Tap the metal dome lightly to make sure the meter is properly seated.

    • 4

      Replace the meter box cover or attach the circular clamp around the meter. Contact your local power company to seal the meter.