Hi to all,
Here is todays question
Regards
Gerry
I don’t know how you can tell the service based on a meter? The determining factor would be the main panel or fusing? Am I missing something?
Hi Ray,
I’ll explain more when the poll ends tomorrow, but yes there is a rule of thumb that can be applied to amperage based on the shape of the meter base.
I don’t know if it also applies in Canada though.
Watch this space
Regards
Gerry
Shape of the meter base? You mean there’s something other than round?
The reason I asked… I was always told do not base the amperage on the meter. alone.
Thanks Gerry and regards,
Hi Ray,
Yes, I agree. The total available amperage is governed by the lowest rated component in the supply chain made up of:
- Service drop conductors
- Service entrance conductors
- Meter and meter base
- Main disconnect
- Service panel rating
Regards
Gerry
I never learned how to determine amperage based on the meter base. Any good links or educational materials anywhere?
Typically, a small circular meter base is indicative of 60-amp service; small square meter base 100-amp service; large rectangular, or square, meter base 200-amp service.
I have never seen a square or rectangular meter base. They all are round here in my neck of the woods.
Jeff Pope, do you have square and rectangular meter bases up there?
In British Columbia I have seen round meter bases that B.C. hydro has rated at 200amps. When I talked to a respectable electrition he said that it was correct. So i guess that rule up here doesn’t apply.
Todd
Edited because I learned something new today 
Most of the meter bases we see are rectangular Russ, although the meter is round. . .
Hi to all,
the correct answer to this question is: 60 amps
Please see below a quick guide to meter panels, it is not the last word on the subject but a good basic rule of thumb.
Regards
Gerry
Interesting.
I AM THE LEAR-NED ONE. thanx Gerry
I have 200 amp service. My meter is out on the pole. It is a inductive type meter and is round on a round base.