Identify the equipment and the purpose of the work
The meter measures electricity use. The meter socket or base supports its connection, while service-entrance equipment and conductors form part of the supply arrangement serving the property. Ownership and work responsibilities depend on the provider and installation; they should be confirmed rather than assumed.
Tell us whether the request follows damage, an inspection concern, relocation plans, new construction or a proposed service upgrade. Share the address, electric provider and any notice already received. Meter billing questions and a neighborhood outage belong with the utility; repairs to customer-responsibility equipment may involve an electrician.
Plan with the serving utility
Different providers publish their own equipment and installation requirements. For example, Santee Cooper provides approved meter-base information and installation specifications. Guardian reviews the requirements for the utility actually serving your address before selecting equipment or agreeing on a work sequence.
Disconnection, electrical work, required inspection release and reconnection need to be coordinated where applicable. A requested date does not reserve utility service or guarantee reconnection at a particular time. Include any case number or written requirements so the parties can work from the same information.
Planning reference: Santee Cooper: service and meter installation resources.
Consider the whole supply arrangement
Changing a meter base alone does not establish a larger electrical service. The proposed load, service equipment, conductors, disconnects, grounding and bonding, and utility supply must be considered together. Let us know about planned chargers, additions or other significant equipment before the replacement scope is set.
Overhead and underground arrangements create different access and coordination needs. Existing finishes, mounting surfaces, the path of the service and any required restoration can affect the estimate. For a rental or shared property, identify the owner, affected units and person authorized to approve work.
Respond to damage without approaching it
Keep away from loose service equipment, damaged conductors and downed lines. Do not touch, remove a meter or open sealed or protective equipment for a photograph. Report immediate hazards to the utility and emergency services as appropriate; contact Guardian about the customer-side repair once safe access and responsibilities can be established.
Guardian serves homes and businesses in Myrtle Beach, Carolina Forest, all of Horry County and all of Georgetown County. We travel to your property; share the address and scope so we can discuss the next step. See our service areas.
Questions about meter and service-entrance work
Can you remove or reconnect the utility meter yourself?
Meter handling and authorization follow the serving utility’s process. Guardian coordinates the permitted scope; a website request does not authorize a customer to remove a meter or its seal.
Do I need a larger service when the meter base is replaced?
Not automatically. Repair or replacement and increasing service capacity are separate decisions. Share planned electrical loads so the complete supply can be reviewed.
How do I identify my electric provider?
Start with the electric bill or property account information. Our utility guide links provider resources; a town name alone is not enough to confirm which utility serves an individual address.