Why is my meter locked?

Why is my meter locked?

The most common reason for a gas meter lock being applied is that you are way overdue on your payments. The most common type of a gas meter lock is that of a barrel ball locking mechanism. These locks work by using a steel cylinder placed behind ball bearings and kept in place by a spring.

Can you lock your electric meter?

Don’t lock your meter box with any padlock. They cannot, however, unlock unapproved, or non-Power Industry padlocks, and so will have to estimate your energy consumption. Safe access to your meter Please: Do not fence in meter boxes – build fences and gates behind, rather than in front of the meter box.

How do I know if my electric meter has been tampered with?

How to tell if your electric meter has been cheated

1. Damaged or no casing to meter.
2. Disconnected cables.
3. Extra wires sticking out or wrapped around.
4. Plastic casing melted or burn marks on meter.
5. Meter shows no credit but electricity is still available.
6. Meter dials aren’t moving even though electricity is being used.

How do you get into a locked meter box?

1, A pair of needle nosed pliers, work just fine. 2, A screwdriver, at the contact point, works. 3, A new key costs less then a quid, at a diy store. 4, Any other meter key, will open your meter box, all the keys are the same.

Should I have access to my electricity meter?

You have a right to access the meters if you’re paying the bills. Ask to be shown the location of the meters when you first look around the property – they can be hidden in some odd places, and might not even be inside your home.

Should I lock my meter box?

Do not use private padlocks or locking devices on meter boxes. If you’re concerned about the security of your meter, you can order an Essential Energy approved lock from www.meterkeys.com.au. This will ensure meter readers and emergency crews can still access the meter, especially in case of fire or electric shock.

Can the electric company tell if I steal power?

The electric company can help you determine if someone is stealing your power or if there is a leach or problem somewhere in your system. If theft is an issue, they will investigate and stop the thief.

How does the locking mechanism on an electric meter box work?

The same key will open both locks. The barrel locks used on electric meters are constructed so technicians can replace the parts, instead of replacing the entire locking system. You can replace the barrel, pins, casing or dust cap if any of these parts become damaged.

Why does my meter say my electricity is off?

So, if you see the letters “OPN” — the electricity is OFF. There is NO power being supplied PAST the meter. There are 2 reasons the power could be off: 1. No order has been submitted to have the electricity turned on, or 2. The electricity has been disconnected due to non-payment of a past due bill.

What causes missing Knockouts on an electric meter?

Missing knockouts on the meter base – openings into the electrical meter base. Inadequate fastening of the meter base and/or mast to the building. Evidence of tampering at the electrical meter, such as a locking ring seal that has been cut and not replaced by the electrical utility company.

Where is the barrel lock on an electric meter?

The barrel lock has a beveled or sloped head around the cylinder. The head prevents the lock from being turned by pliers, vise-grip pliers or other grasping tools. The barrel head cannot be broken off. Many of the electric-meter box locks are located at the bottom of the panel or under the meter.