What Is an Electrical Service Entrance?
The electrical service entrance is where utility power enters your home. Understanding this critical component helps you recognize problems, plan upgrades, and communicate effectively with electricians.
Service Entrance Components
The Weatherhead (Service Head)
At the top of your service:
- Curved fitting that points downward
- Prevents water from entering the conduit
- Where utility wires connect to your wires
- Often called the "drip loop" connection point
Why it matters: Water intrusion here can cause corrosion and safety hazards.
Service Entrance Cable or Conduit
Cable (SE Cable): - Runs from weatherhead to meter - Contains hot conductors and neutral - Exposed installation on exterior
Conduit: - Metal or PVC pipe - Protects conductors inside - More durable but costlier installation
The Electric Meter
Measures your electricity consumption:
- Owned by the utility company
- Located between service entrance and panel
- Modern meters transmit readings wirelessly
- Base and socket owned by homeowner
Important: Never tamper with the meter—it's utility property.
Meter Base
The enclosure holding your meter:
- Homeowner's responsibility to maintain
- Must be weatherproof
- Provides secure mounting
- Contains the utility disconnect (in some installations)
Service Entrance Conductors
Wires from meter to panel:
- Size determines your home's capacity
- Typically 100A, 150A, or 200A service
- Must be properly sized for your loads
- Run through wall or exterior conduit
Types of Service Entrances
Overhead Service
How it works: - Power lines run from pole to your home - Connect at weatherhead - Drop down to meter
Advantages: - Lower installation cost - Easier to repair - Common in established neighborhoods
Disadvantages: - Exposed to weather and falling branches - Visual impact on property - Vulnerable during storms
Underground Service
How it works: - Power lines buried from transformer - Enter home through foundation or underground conduit - Connect at meter without overhead exposure
Advantages: - Protected from weather - No visual impact - More reliable during storms
Disadvantages: - Higher installation cost - Harder to repair if damaged - Requires excavation for upgrades
Service Entrance Sizing
| Service Size | Typical Application |
|---|---|
| 100 amps | Smaller homes, minimal electric loads |
| 150 amps | Medium homes, moderate loads |
| 200 amps | Standard modern homes |
| 400 amps | Large homes, high electrical demands |
Current standard: 200-amp service is recommended for new construction and upgrades.
Signs of Service Entrance Problems
Visual Indicators
- Damaged or missing weatherhead
- Exposed or frayed cables
- Rust or corrosion on components
- Loose or hanging wires
- Cracked meter base
- Water stains near entry point
Performance Indicators
- Flickering lights throughout home
- Breakers tripping frequently
- Burning smell near meter or panel
- Discoloration on meter or connections
- Hot spots on service equipment
Maintenance and Inspection
What homeowners can check: - Visual inspection of weatherhead and cables - Condition of meter base exterior - Clearance from vegetation - Signs of damage after storms
What requires a professional: - Testing connections inside meter base - Evaluating conductor condition - Checking for proper grounding - Assessing capacity adequacy
When Service Entrance Upgrades Are Needed
Common triggers:
- Upgrading from 100A to 200A service
- Damage from weather or accidents
- Adding major electrical loads (EV charger, etc.)
- Insurance or inspection requirements
- Visible deterioration of components
The Upgrade Process
Typical steps:
- Electrician evaluates current system
- Permit obtained from municipality
- Utility notified and coordinates disconnect
- New service entrance components installed
- New panel connected
- Inspection by building department
- Utility reconnects and installs new meter
Timeline: Usually 1-2 days of work plus scheduling with utility.
Service Entrance Safety
Critical safety points:
- Never work near service entrance yourself
- Wires above the meter are always energized
- Only the utility can disconnect service wires
- Damage should be reported immediately
- Keep trees and vegetation clear
Questions About Your Service Entrance?
Whether you're planning an upgrade or concerned about your current setup, we can evaluate your service entrance and explain your options.
Contact us for a service entrance evaluation.