Mains question


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Old 03-16-14, 04:57 AM
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Mains question

Would an electrician have to pull the meter (disconnect power) to tighten a main circuit breaker or the terminals where the 3 incoming wires are attached?

What about the meter socket, would the service drop have to be disconnected to tighten both sides?

NOTE- I said electrician I am not in need of this repair and if so I am not that brave.
 
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Old 03-16-14, 05:58 AM
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Not likely for the mains, but for the meter the utility co. should be involved to reseal the meter so that being said have the meter pulled and at the same time tighten the mains, that would be the safest way.
 
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Old 03-16-14, 07:12 AM
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The procedure will depend on your location. Around here an electrician can cut the seal and do the work required. Then all it takes is phone call or e-mail to the power company letting them know that the seal has been removed and it needs a new one.
 
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Old 03-16-14, 07:26 AM
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I know the procedure for pulling the meter and having it sealed.

Meter socket aside,

why can those main connections inside the panel can be tightened down without turning off power without the electrician getting fried?
 
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Old 03-16-14, 08:11 AM
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The connections at the main breaker can be shut off by pulling the meter. However, electricians have the experience and training on how to safely work around energized circuits. This is NOT a DIY job!
 
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Old 03-16-14, 08:18 AM
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Of course. But I am trying to gauge if I have an electrician out can he tighten the mains live, without having to pull the meter and go thru that hassle.
 
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Old 03-16-14, 08:22 AM
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I suggest calling the electrician and ask them if they will do it hot. I doubt pulling the meter is much of a hassle and the electrician could handle the power company if needed. Is there a reason why you feel you need the connections tightened? Are you experiencing any issues?
 
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Old 03-16-14, 06:59 PM
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I am trying to gauge if I have an electrician out can he tighten the mains live, without having to pull the meter and go thru that hassle.
Sure he can, but will he? Most electricians will choose the safer route and pull the meter if it needs to be pulled.
 
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Old 03-16-14, 07:05 PM
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The availability of insulated tools and protective equipment is also used to allow this to be done.
 
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Old 03-17-14, 06:16 AM
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The availability of insulated tools and protective equipment is also used to allow this to be done.
I had an electrician over this morning and asked him to tighten down the connections in the panel and he had no problem doing so live (barehanded and standard screwdriver).... nerves of steel. I'll keep turning breakers off when changing light switches thank you.
 

Last edited by Tolyn Ironhand; 03-17-14 at 05:18 PM. Reason: Removed off color remark.
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Old 03-18-14, 03:18 AM
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OK, off color...... that's hogwash. (Is it ok to say hogwash?)
 
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Old 03-18-14, 05:13 AM
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It is not necessary to turn off the power (e.g. pull the meter) before tightening the big lugs that hold the service wires in the panel. But if your screwdriver slips and touches something else at the same time you could get a big spark that frightens you and you might do something harmful such as jerk your arm against some sharp metal nearby.

Of course you need to open the meter box to tighten up any connections inside it. See preceding regarding breaking the seal.
 
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Old 03-18-14, 06:59 PM
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Hogwash is fine.
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