Temporary Electric

[RRG]

I spoke with the gentleman from the power company about getting temp electric run to my lot. Foundation is in, wire still has to be pulled at road (underground) so I am trying to get started a little early.
It is my understanding that I will need a min 4x4 post/pole, meter base, a breaker box, and wire to ground. I am to supply all and utilities is to run wire to the post.

Would anyone care to elaborate a little on the steps involved in having the post ready for the power company? I am 150 miles away from the site and want to get it right the first time.
I know every utility company can be a bit diferent, but I am asking for some generalizations. I am to meet the gentleman this coming Weds.

I have heard it is a good idea to use the same size breaker box at the pole as what I will have in the house. In other words, I can just re-use it.

Also what is a good name brand to go with for my breakers and panel?

[ndemge]

I wouldn't want to put a big expensive breaker box out on a pole that is going to be in the rain and then put it in my house.....


My brother just built his house next to one of my other brothers....

He ran 30 amp 220 line out to a pole, with a tiny breaker box with 2 20 amp circuits with GFI outlets in exterior boxes mounted directly to the breaker box. From there, the construction crews had 2 good circuits to run their power tools from

he probably had less than $50 invested

As for the post, I never paid attention to how he mounted it, if it was in the ground or free standing

[midnightscape]

Hey RRG,

I'm putting an addition in and needing to upgrade from 100A to 200A service, dual meter base, peak & offpeak. I need to set a new post, actually 2 posts "sign" to hold everything. The brand of panel and breakers I got was Square D, they have 2 versions a "homeline" series and "ICQ" (i think). I got the homeline which was about $20 cheaper per 200A panel and my elec. said that was fine but the ICQ are more commercial/heavy duty. It came with all the breakers.
From my understanding I need to have the post in and base attached ready for the lines to be connected, as well I have the lines run to my post from the house. Depending on where you are there are requirements for depth of wires run (to house).
Someone else can maybe jump in with any additional help.
Jason

[dhill]

Around here, most electric companies have their temp posts already built and ready to set at the job site. The post is comprised of an 8 or 10 foot 4x4 post, a meter box, a circuit breaker box, and a couple of plugs. I suppose you can put whatever amp box you'd like, but 60 amp is probably plenty. I wouldn't build too much on the temp pole. Maybe a 100 amp circuit breaker, but there's no need to get too fancy, it's only temporary. And I wouldn't use a box I was planning to put in the house. The breakers can be reused though.

[RRG]

Thanks for the responses!