An electrical service pole supports the main electrical equipment that brings power into a home, mobile home, shop, or rural property. When that pole becomes damaged, leaning, or unsafe, it can create a serious electrical hazard.
ProLectric recently replaced an old broken electrical service pole after it could no longer safely support the service equipment. If your home has this type of electrical setup, here are a few signs it may be time to have it inspected.
1. The Pole Is Leaning or Shifting
A service pole should stand straight and remain firmly supported. If the pole is leaning, moving, or pulling away from the service wiring, it should be checked by a licensed electrician.
2. The Wood Is Rotten, Cracked, or Damaged
Older wooden service poles can deteriorate from age, moisture, insects, and weather exposure. Soft spots, splitting, cracking, or visible rot can mean the pole is no longer strong enough to support the meter can, disconnect, riser, and weather head.
3. The Meter Can or Disconnect Is Loose
The electrical equipment mounted to the pole should be secure. A loose meter can, disconnect, feed-through panel, conduit, or riser can indicate structural movement or failing support.
4. The Service Riser or Weather Head Is Damaged
The service riser and weather head help protect the overhead electrical service where utility power enters the property. If these parts are bent, loose, rusted, or damaged, the service pole may need repair or replacement.
5. The Pole No Longer Meets Current Electrical Requirements
Older electrical services may not meet today’s safety standards, especially if equipment has been added, changed, or damaged over time. Replacing the pole gives the electrician an opportunity to update the service equipment and make sure everything is installed properly.
What Is Included on an Electrical Service Pole?
A complete electrical service pole may include a meter can, main disconnect or feed-through panel, service riser, weather head, grounding system, conduit, wiring, and a properly installed pressure-treated pole.
These poles are commonly used for mobile homes, manufactured homes, rural properties, shops, detached buildings, and some permanent residences.
Electrical Service Pole Replacement by ProLectric
Replacing an electrical service pole is not a do-it-yourself project. The service equipment must be properly installed, grounded, supported, and coordinated with the utility company when needed.
ProLectric, LLC installs and replaces electrical service poles throughout our service area. We can help with damaged poles, old meter poles, mobile home service poles, and new electrical service pole installations.
Learn more about our electrical service pole installation and replacement services.
Call ProLectric, LLC at 281-337-5060 to schedule an estimate.