Electric Meters -- Sealed for Safety

Electric meters measure the amount of service delivered by measuring the flow. Every meter in operation has current flowing through it, and residential meters usually carry the full load of the home’s electrical supply. The typical residential load can be from 100 to 200 amps of current.

You have probably noticed the electric meter at your location has a tag or seal attached to it. Meters are sealed for several very good reasons––removing the meter while it is under load, that is when current is flowing through it, can lead to disaster. The metal housing is at a different electrical potential from the meter. Any contact between the metal housing and the meter will result in a violent discharge or “arc” of electricity between them. The resulting electrical explosion can severely damage the meter and the electrical system, and may cause electrical fires. The person working with the meter could be injured, blinded or killed by flying glass and metal, or by the radiant flash caused by the explosion.

The meter may be removed or serviced only by representatives of Pioneer Electric Cooperative, or an electrician or emergency personnel authorized by us. Periodically inspections by Pioneer personnel will reveal if the meter seal has been tampered with, so if the meter is not sealed properly, please notify us immediately.
Remember – the seal on the meter is a seal of safety!!

Tampering with the electric meter is
dangerous and illegal!