How to Safely Turn Off Power to Your House from Outside

How To Turn Off Power To House From Outside

There are times when it becomes necessary to turn off the power to your house from outside. Whether you’re dealing with a power outage, repairing an electrical issue, or doing renovations, knowing how to properly and safely shut off the electricity to your home can save you time, money, and potentially dangerous situations. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of turning off the power to your house from the outside, specifically in the zip code 02907 Cranston Providence, Rhode Island area, where B&K Electric is the go-to licensed electrician for all your electrical needs.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI, has been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. Committed to providing top-notch customer service and quality electrical services, B&K Electric is the trusted name in the area for electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. With years of experience and expertise, the team at B&K Electric is here to guide you on how to safely turn off the power to your house from outside.

Step 1: Locate Your Electric Meter

The first step in turning off the power to your house is to locate your electric meter. In most homes, the electric meter is found on an exterior wall, near the main electrical panel. It is usually a large grey or metal box with a spinning metal disk inside. The electric meter is the point where the power from the utility company enters your property.

Step 2: Obtain the Necessary Tools

Before turning off the power, you will need a few tools to do the job efficiently and safely. These tools include a pair of rubber gloves, a flashlight, a voltage tester, and a screwdriver. Make sure to wear your rubber gloves to avoid any shocks while working with the electrical components.

Step 3: Shut Off the Main Breakers

Inside the electric meter box, locate the two main breakers. These are typically large levers or switches that control the entire electrical power supply to your home. Using a voltage tester, make sure the power is off by testing the breakers. Once confirmed that the power is off, switch off the main breakers to cut off electricity entirely to your house.

Step 4: Disconnect the Main Power Line

After turning off the main breakers, locate the main power line that connects your house to the utility company’s power supply. In most cases, it is a thick cable that runs from the electric meter to your house. You will need to disconnect this line from the electric meter to fully cut off the power supply.

Step 5: Turn Off Individual Circuits

Once the main power supply has been disconnected, you can proceed to turn off individual circuits in your main electrical panel. This step is necessary if you need to perform any work on specific electrical components or appliances in your house. It is also recommended to turn off individual circuits before doing any renovations or repairs to avoid overloading the circuit and causing potential hazards.

Step 6: Test for Power Flow

Before turning the power back on, it is crucial to test for any power flow in your electrical system. Using your voltage tester, check the circuits in your main panel to ensure there is no electricity flow. This step is crucial to avoid accidents when turning the power back on.

Step 7: Reconnect the Power Line and Turn On the Main Breakers

Once you have confirmed there is no power flow, reconnect the main power line to the electric meter, and switch the main breakers back on. This will supply electricity back to your home. You can then turn on individual circuits as needed.

Safety Tips:

– Always wear rubber gloves and use proper tools to avoid electrical shocks.

– Do not attempt to turn off power if you see any signs of burning, sparking, or damage to electrical components.

– If you are unsure or uncomfortable working with electrical systems, it is best to call a licensed electrician for assistance.

Knowing how to safely turn off the power to your house from outside is a valuable skill for every homeowner. By following these simple steps and taking necessary safety precautions, you can efficiently and effectively turn off the power to your house when needed. Remember to always consult a licensed electrician for any electrical repairs or installations to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones.

Topics:

turning off power,

outside power shutoff,

safety tips