Electrical – how to disconnect main service drop at service panel

electrical-panel

when upgrading to a 200 amp service panel with service drop coming from bottom underground do I need southern California Edison to come disconnect and then reconnect or can I just do it on my own. I do have a permit.

Best Answer

You'll need utility help for this one

Since you're dealing with an "all in one" device that combines a meter base, service disconnect, and loadcenter, you'll need to have the utility cut power for you to be able to safely replace it. Fortunately, this shouldn't be an issue for them provided you have them do it during normal business hours.

Recommendation: don't go with another all-in-one

While all-in-one/combination service entrance devices are inexpensive and labor-saving for production builders, they have the great problem that you see here: you need to have the utility cut power just so you can expand this. A separate meter-main and panel gives you more flexibility in this regard, and also expands your ability to pick panels (I haven't yet seen a CSED upwards of 42 spaces, whereas many loadcenter lines go up to 54 or 60 spaces these days).