A damaged electricity or gas meter box doesn't always mean that the entire meter box needs to be removed and replaced.
Depending on the type and extent of the damage, a meter box repair solution can provide a straightforward way to restore the appearance and protection of an existing meter box without the disruption involved in replacing the complete unit.
In this guide, we'll explain how a damaged meter box can be repaired and show you the installation process using a Mitras™ Meterboxes repair solution.
Why Repair a Damaged Meter Box?
External meter boxes are exposed to the elements throughout their working life and can become damaged through general wear and tear, accidental impact or deterioration over time.
Common problems can include:
- Cracked or damaged meter box doors
- Broken hinges
- Damaged frames
- Missing doors
- Cracked or deteriorated meter box surrounds
- Boxes that no longer close or secure correctly
Aside from looking unsightly, damage to the meter box can leave the meter and associated equipment less protected from weather and accidental contact.
Where the existing installation is suitable, repairing the meter box can therefore be a much simpler option than removing and replacing the complete box.
How to Repair a Damaged Meter Box
The video below demonstrates the installation process for repairing a damaged meter box using a Mitras™ Meterboxes repair solution.
Watch the full installation video:
HOW TO | Repair a Damaged Meter Box | Product Installation | Mitras™ Meterboxes
The repair system is designed to provide a neat new external enclosure around the existing meter box, helping restore the appearance of the installation while avoiding unnecessary removal of the original box.
Step 1: Inspect the Existing Meter Box
Before starting the repair, inspect the existing meter box and surrounding wall.
Check the extent of the damage and make sure that the repair product is suitable for the existing installation.
Pay particular attention to the condition of the surrounding surface and ensure there is sufficient space for the repair unit to be positioned correctly.
Step 2: Prepare the Existing Meter Box
Remove or secure any damaged parts that could interfere with the installation of the repair unit.
The surrounding area should also be cleaned so that the new enclosure can sit correctly against the wall.
Always take care around electricity and gas meter equipment. The meter itself and any associated electrical or gas equipment should not be altered as part of a cosmetic meter box repair.
Step 3: Position the Meter Box Repair Unit
Carefully position the repair unit over the existing damaged meter box.
Check that the enclosure is level and that it sits correctly around the existing installation.
Before fixing anything permanently, open and close the new door to make sure there is sufficient clearance and that the unit operates correctly.
Step 4: Mark the Fixing Positions
Once you're happy with the position, mark the required fixing points.
Take care when drilling around meter installations and make sure you know what is behind the surface before drilling or installing fixings.
The repair enclosure can then be secured in accordance with the installation instructions shown in the video.
Step 5: Secure the Repair Unit
Install the appropriate fixings and secure the enclosure to the wall.
Check the unit as you tighten the fixings to make sure it remains level and isn't pulled out of alignment.
Once secured, check around the enclosure to make sure it sits neatly against the surrounding surface.
Step 6: Check the Door and Finish the Installation
Finally, open and close the meter box door several times.
Check that:
- The door opens freely
- The door closes correctly
- The locking mechanism operates correctly
- The enclosure is securely fixed
- The finished installation is neat and correctly aligned
Your damaged meter box now has a clean and practical new enclosure without requiring the complete existing meter box to be removed.
Repair or Replace a Meter Box?
If the damage is primarily to the external enclosure, door or surrounding structure, repairing the meter box can often be preferable to undertaking a complete replacement.
A meter box repair solution can help:
- Cover an existing damaged meter box
- Restore the appearance of the installation
- Provide a new secure door
- Reduce the work involved in removing an existing box
- Avoid unnecessary disturbance around the meter installation
- Provide a neat, professional finish
However, if the meter itself, electrical equipment, gas equipment or associated connections are damaged, you should contact the relevant utility provider or a suitably qualified professional rather than attempting to repair this equipment yourself.
Mitras™ Meterboxes
Mitras has extensive experience in the design and manufacture of moulded composite components, including electrical box applications.
Mitras™ Meterboxes provide practical solutions for new installations as well as products designed to help repair and refurbish existing meter box installations.
If your existing meter box has become cracked, damaged or difficult to secure, a repair solution could provide a much simpler alternative to replacing the complete installation.
Watch the video above to see the complete meter box repair installation process.
