Otis Singleton
Electric meters are devices used by utility companies to measure power usage in a building for billing purposes. They are usually placed outside a home, but can also be found inside, near the electrical panel. These meters are often secured with locks to prevent tampering and theft of electricity. Removing these locks without authorization is generally not recommended as it can suggest theft, and it is best to contact the utility company or a licensed electrician for assistance. In some cases, individuals have shared their experiences of cutting and removing meter locks, but these actions may not be legal and can result in consequences. It is important to understand the regulations and safety precautions before attempting any modifications to electric meters.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Outside or inside the home, near the electrical panel |
| Purpose | To prevent unauthorised persons from removing the meter and to stop people from tampering with the meter to get free electricity |
| Removal | Requires the power company and a licensed electrician |
| Method | Use a grinder, sawzall, angle grinder, hacksaw, carbide drill bit, bolt cutter, or rifle to cut the ring |
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What You'll Learn
Removing an electric meter lock
One method of removal is to contact the utility company and request assistance. They will typically send someone to your home to remove the lock, and you can then call them again to have it locked back up once you are done. This is a safe and recommended option, as shown by the experience of a user in San Diego who had a positive experience with their utility company.
Another method is to use a screw, specifically a drywall screw, to remove the lock. This method was suggested by a user who had successfully opened a barrel lock on their meter box with a screw.
It is also possible to simply cut off the meter lock, but this should only be done in an emergency, such as when the power is surging and there is a risk of fire. It is important to note that cutting off the lock without a valid reason, such as with the intention to steal electricity, may be illegal and could result in legal consequences.
Additionally, some meter locks are designed to be twisted off, particularly the cheaper aluminum ones with a wire tag. However, attempting to remove the lock without damaging it may be challenging, as these locks are designed to be tamper-proof.
In any case, it is always best to consult with a licensed electrician or the utility company to ensure that any work performed is safe, legal, and will not result in unintended consequences.
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Using a utility company to remove the lock
If you need to remove a utility company's lock from your meter, it is best to call the company to have them remove it. This is because, without the key, you will likely break the lock. Some utility companies will send someone to your home to remove the lock, and then return to lock it up once you are done.
If you are unable to contact the utility company, or they are unable to send someone to your home, you may have to cut the lock. This can be done by cutting the heavy-duty barrel lock-type lock rings with dikes, or by gnawing at the snap ring. However, this may damage the lock, and the power company may be upset if you do this.
If you are dealing with a smart meter, the power company will know if you pull it, and they will send someone to investigate.
In some cases, you may be able to open the meter box with a screw and reconnect it without consequences, as long as the bills are paid.
To avoid having to remove a lock in the first place, you can try to opt-out of smart meter installation. To do this, you can post a sign on your meter saying, "I am opting out of the smart meter. Do not install a gas smart meter." You can also try to chain up your meter, although this is not a guarantee that an installer won't cut through the chain and install the smart meter anyway.
It is important to note that the legality of removing a utility company's lock from your meter may vary depending on your jurisdiction and utility company.
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Locking a gas meter
To lock a gas meter, you will need to purchase a chain and a lock. First, measure your meter to determine the required length of the chain. You want the chain to loop around the meter three times, so add six inches to the measured length to be safe. Buy a hardened shackle lock and a hardened steel chain. Wrap the chain around the meter tightly, ensuring it loops three times. Lock the chain to itself by locking the first wrap to the third wrap.
If you wish to stop a gas smart meter installation, you can post a sign on your meter stating your intention to opt out. However, it is still recommended to chain up your meter as there is no guarantee an installer will not install a smart meter anyway.
It is important to note that locking a gas meter is only necessary when the meter is located outside your home. An outside gas meter is attached to a pipe that comes out of the ground next to the home.
Additionally, if you want to clock a gas meter, you must first turn off all gas appliances in the home, including any pilot lights. Then, turn on the furnace to the highest firing rate and wait until it reaches a steady state. Use a stopwatch to time how long it takes the smallest unit of measure dial to make a full revolution on the gas meter. Finally, calculate the Cubic Feet per Hour (CFH) using the formula: CFH = (3600 x Dial Size) / Time (in seconds).
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Signs that indicate tampering
Electric meter tampering is a form of electricity theft from the power company. It involves any action that causes the meter to run slower or stop or diverts electricity around the meter. While there are many ways to tamper with a meter, there are several signs that can indicate when tampering has occurred.
One of the most common methods of tampering is to turn the watthour meter upside down. This can be detected by simply observing the meter's position. Another common method is to pull out the meter and replace it with something else, often metal objects like kitchen knives, copper wire, or jumper cables. This can be identified by noticing any foreign objects in place of the meter.
Tampering can also occur by drilling a hole in the meter cover and inserting an object to stop the disc, usually done at night to avoid detection. In some cases, magnets are used to slow down or stop the disc, although these are typically placed on the outside of the meter and are easily spotted. Meter techs and linemen should be vigilant in looking out for these signs of tampering, as power theft results in losses for the company and, by extension, their employees.
One of the key indicators of tampering is the meter seal. Meter bases are typically sealed with a tamper-evident seal, which, when cut, cannot be properly sealed again. If the seal is missing or broken, further investigation is required, as it may indicate illegal work or power theft. Additionally, a periodic watthour meter change-out system can help detect tampering, as regular testing and changing of meters, typically every 5-7 years, allows for closer inspection of the installations.
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What to do if you're not a qualified electrician
If you are not a qualified electrician, it is important to take the necessary precautions when dealing with electric meters. Here are some steps to follow if you need to remove or work on an electric meter:
- Contact your utility company: Reach out to your local utility company and explain your situation. They may be able to provide guidance or send a representative to assist you. Some companies may offer to temporarily disconnect your service to facilitate any work you need to do.
- Understand the risks: Be aware that working on an electric meter can be dangerous, especially for unqualified persons. The potential risk of injury to yourself or damage to your property is significant. Even voltages as low as 50VAC can be lethal under certain conditions.
- Obtain necessary permits: Before proceeding with any work, ensure that you have obtained the necessary permits and approvals. Contact your local inspection department to understand the specific requirements and procedures in your area.
- Consult a qualified electrician: If you are unsure about any aspect of the work, it is always best to consult a qualified electrician. They can provide professional advice and ensure that the work is done safely and correctly.
- Take safety precautions: If you must work on the electric meter, ensure that you take the necessary safety precautions. This includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves rated for voltage protection, safety glasses or a face shield, and a hard hat.
- Follow proper procedures: Familiarize yourself with the correct procedures for removing or working on an electric meter. This includes shutting off the power in the building and understanding the method by which the meter is secured in place.
- Do not tamper with the meter: It is important to note that the electric meter is typically the property of the utility company, not the homeowner. Tampering with the meter or attempting to remove it without authorization may result in legal consequences, fines, or even jail time.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority when working with electricity. If you are uncomfortable or unsure about any aspect of the process, it is best to seek professional assistance from a qualified electrician.
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Frequently asked questions
An electric meter lock is a device used to prevent unauthorised access to an electric meter, typically to prevent tampering or theft of electricity.
Typically, only a licensed electrician or utility company representative can install and remove an electric meter lock.
You may need to lock your electric meter if it is located outside your home and you want to prevent unauthorised access or potential tampering.
It is recommended to use a hardened shackle lock for your electric meter, along with a hardened steel chain that can be wrapped tightly around the meter at least three times.
It is generally not recommended to remove an electric meter lock yourself, as it may suggest theft or tampering. If you need to remove the lock for maintenance or repairs, it is best to contact your utility company or a licensed electrician.
