Opinion on cable condition
#1
11-01-03, 09:11 PM
Opinion on cable condition
The electrical cable that comes out of the bottom of our electric meter is old. I have been told it is OK as long as it is not disturbed. Is that true? Also, should I put tape on this wire, leave it alone, or have it replaced? It goes from the meter into the garage where the circuit breaker panel is. The outside insulation is wearing, you can see some type of metal wire wrapped /strengthening the cable and then the individual electical wires inside the cable. I am kind of afraid to touch it as I have no way of turning the power off right below the meter. I'd appreciate your opinions on how to make this safer on a very limited budget.
Thank You.
PS. I tried to attach a picture but it says ATTACH FILE Maximum size: 10240 bytes. The filesize for the picture is larger than that! I'd really like to attach the file as the picture is worth 1,000 words.. Can someone explain how I can attach a picture? Thanks.
Thank You.
PS. I tried to attach a picture but it says ATTACH FILE Maximum size: 10240 bytes. The filesize for the picture is larger than that! I'd really like to attach the file as the picture is worth 1,000 words.. Can someone explain how I can attach a picture? Thanks.
#2
11-01-03, 09:20 PM
If you cant replace it with a service upgrade probably best to leave it alone for a while,,, but,,, something like that is obviously not in prime condition and if it is exposed to moisture there could be problems in the future. Something like that is not for DIY with a hot meter. Even with the meter pulled there are hot lugs in the base. Get an estimate.
#3
11-02-03, 01:42 AM
i agree with sberry with the exeption of leaving it for a while. you need a service change. those wires are UNFUSED and ( with all due respect) if you have to ask "should i put tape on it" this is not a job for you. get several estimates, i dont know where you live but in my area (bay area CA.) a 125 amp service can be done for $1000 to $1200. Don't pay any more.
good luck
good luck
#4
11-02-03, 07:54 AM
Forum Topic Moderator
Just because the cable is in poor condition does NOT mean you need a servvice upgrade. The reason for a service upgrade is because you are adding new electric loads like central air or builiding an addition.
You should be able to just get the service cable replaced. Get several estimates.
One other question, is your service overhead or underground?
You should be able to just get the service cable replaced. Get several estimates.
One other question, is your service overhead or underground?
#5
11-02-03, 08:56 AM
Member
Near as I can tell, file attachment does not work, even if you do shrink that picture down below 10KB. So to post a picture, you will need to upload your picture to some website on which you have storage permissiongs, and then link to it.
