Meter can

nounShop talkElectricians

Meter socket enclosure where the utility revenue meter plugs in, mounted between the service drop and panel.

A meter can is the meter socket, the enclosure with jaws that the utility revenue meter plugs into, mounted outside or in a meter room where the service conductors arrive. The electrician installs and wires it to the utility's specifications, the utility seals it, and the meter cannot be pulled without breaking that seal. Line and load conductors are kept apart inside it, and meters are pulled only by utility staff or electricians with permission.

Heard on the job

Meter can is wired and the inspection passed, now we wait on the utility to set the meter and energize.

Also heard as

  • meter base
  • meter socket
  • meter pan