20A 600Vac Instrument Rated Meter Socket USTS131A301CH

A meter socket is a weatherproof enclosure that houses the electric meter and connects your service entrance conductors to the utility’s power lines. It allows the utility to measure your electricity usage and acts as a safe, secure interface between their system and your home’s wiring. Without it, your electric meter can’t function, and power can’t legally or safely be delivered to the home.

• Main breaker socket: Includes a built-in breaker for disconnecting service.
• Main lug socket: No breaker, just lugs for wire terminations; requires a separate disconnect.
• Ring-type socket: A locking ring is used to secure the meter (often required by utilities).
• Ringless socket: Holds the meter with clips; makes it easier to access for service.
• Overhead socket: Accepts power from overhead utility lines.
• Underground socket: Accepts power from underground service laterals.
• Bypass socket: Includes a mechanism to maintain service during meter removal.
• Multi-position socket: Allows for two or more meters in a single enclosure (e.g., apartments).

Signs for a replacement include burn marks, loose meter jaws, rust/corrosion, or cracked housing. Minor wear (like a worn cover or missing knockout plug) can be repaired, but internal damage or safety risks require full replacement.

 Yes, a multi-gang meter socket allows each unit to have its own meter and separate billing.

Gang sockets combine multiple meters in one enclosure — neater and more cost-efficient for multi-unit buildings.

Yes, most utilities and codes require a separate disconnect for each meter position.

These terms are often used interchangeably, but “meter socket” is the more technical term referring to the component that holds and connects the meter. “Meter base” is more common in utility and construction slang. The difference in terminology often comes down to regional usage or whether you're talking about the complete assembly (base) or just the socket component.

The homeowner provides and maintains the meter socket, which a licensed electrician must install. The utility installs and owns the meter itself. If the socket is damaged, it's the homeowner’s job to repair or replace it by calling a licensed electrician.

No. Installation must be done by a licensed electrician to meet code and utility requirements.

It should be mounted on an exterior wall, accessible to utility workers, and away from obstructions.

Rarely, usually not permitted by utility companies.

Most utilities require the center of the meter to be between 4 and 6 feet above finished grade. Always follow your local utility’s specifications, which override general NEC guidelines.

Yes, with the proper generator-ready meter socket or adapter.

No. Each local utility has its list of approved meter sockets.

NEC Article 230 on service equipment and local utility rules apply.