Meter and Panel Safety

In every home in America there will be a meter and panel. It is one of the most key component in a house to keep power and electricity running. Because every home has one, learning the saftey around your panel is important to keep you safe.

1. The Electrical Panel

The electrical panel (or breaker box) distributes power throughout your home and protects your circuits from overloading. Keeping this area clear and functional is your first priority to prevent fires.

* Maintain 3 Feet of Clearance: Never stack boxes, paint cans, or storage items in front of your panel. In an emergency, you need to be able to reach that main breaker instantly.

* Keep it Dry: Water and electricity are a deadly mix. If you notice moisture, rust, or corrosion on your panel, call a professional immediately.

* Label Everything: Ensure every circuit breaker is clearly labeled. It saves time during a power outage and prevents you from accidentally cutting power to the wrong room.

* Listen and Look: Be wary of buzzing sounds, a "burning plastic" smell, or breakers that frequently trip. These are signs of loose wiring or an overloaded system.

If anything like this happens call a professional immediately!

“Electrical Panel”

2. The Electric Meter

While the panel is inside, the meter is outside, exposed to the elements and the environment. It measures your usage, but it’s also a high-voltage entry point that requires respect.

* Give it Breathing Room: Don't plant shrubs, trees, or vines directly around the meter. Utility workers and electricians need at least 3 feet of space to safely access and service the equipment.

* Check the Seal: Your meter should have a lead or plastic seal. If you notice this seal is broken or missing, contact your utility company. Tampering with a meter is illegal and incredibly dangerous.

* Inspect for Physical Damage: Check for loose conduits (the pipes holding the wires) or a meter box that seems to be pulling away from the house siding.

3. General Safety "Must-Dos"

Regardless of where your equipment is located, these rules apply across the board:

* Hands Off the Internal Wiring: It’s okay to flip a breaker, but never remove the "dead front" (the metal cover inside the panel) unless you are a licensed electrician.

* Use One Hand: If you are flipping a breaker, many pros recommend using only one hand while standing to the side. This is an old safety trick to prevent a path to your heart in the rare event of an electrical arc.

If you see "scorch marks" (blackening) around a breaker, hear a persistent sizzling sound, or if your panel feels hot to the touch, it’s time to pick up the phone and call either us or some other licensed professional to come of fix

We want you to be safe and be confident around your panel and meter, because its important. But some things do need to be fixed eventually, and if you see any of these signs please call us at 801-472-5735

Joke Time: What kind of shoes to frogs wear?…………. Open-toad sandals!

—Horizon Electric (801) - 472 - 5735