Residential Meter Combo Basics
Meter Combos are single enclosures that integrate a utility meter socket and a main breaker that may also include additional branch circuit breaker spaces for power distribution. These units are essential in electrical installations because they provide a safe, code-compliant, and space-efficient way to combine the meter socket and load center—reducing installation time, cost, and complexity. They serve as both the metering point and the primary power disconnect for a building’s electrical system.
See our list of frequently asked questions and answers below to learn more about Meter Combos.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Where are the majority of Meter Combos installed?
Meter Combos are primarily installed in single-family residential applications across the United States. Meter Combos range from 100 to 400 amps. Typically, they are installed outside on the side or rear of a home, close to overhead or underground service lines. This is why Meter Combos are rated NEMA 3R for outdoor use. NEC 2020 code also dictates that the main disconnect should be outside of the home for emergency disconnect situations, where power to the entire home may need to be turned off with one switch.
What are some of the alternative names used to describe Meter Combos?
You may also hear the following terms that refer to a Meter Combo: meter panel combo, meter breaker combo, meter main combo, combination meter socket and main breaker load center, meter socket load center, meter socket with main breaker, meter base combo, meter load center combo, main breaker Meter Combo meter boxes, and for multi-unit dwellings, you may hear the term meter centers used.
How does a Meter Combo address NEC 2020 code?
NEC 2020 implemented requirements for a main disconnect to be outside of the home. By providing a single, outdoor enclosure that includes both the meter and the required main disconnect, Meter Combos meet the NEC 2020 requirements. Meter Combos also meet the requirements for enclosed and guarded equipment in multi-meter applications.
Why are Meter Combos important?
Primary Disconnect: The main breaker within the combo serves as the building’s main disconnect, providing a single, safe point to shut off power to the entire structure.
Safety and Accessibility: Having the main disconnect located outside ensures it’s easily accessible for utility personnel, first responders, and contractors—often a safety requirement in many jurisdictions.
Time and Cost Efficiency: By integrating the meter socket and breaker panel into one unit, installation becomes simpler and faster, saving both labor and materials.
Metering and Power Distribution: Meter Combos handle two critical functions—measuring total electrical consumption for the utility and distributing power to individual branch circuits throughout the building.
What types of Meter Combos are available?
Meter mains typically fall into three categories: meter mains, single mains, and dual mains. ABB has five product categories for Meter Combos.
Meter Main
- Meter socket with a single main
- Up to 200A
Single Main, Top/Bottom
- Ring and ringless versions available
- Plug-on neutral options available
- Up to 200A
Single Main, Top/Bottom, EUSERC
- Ring version available
- Up to 225A
- Plug-on neutral options available
- Solar-ready options available
Single Main, Side-By-Side, EUSERC
- Extra wide versions available
- Solar-ready options available
- Up to 200A
Dual Main
- Ring and ringless versions available
- Up to 400A
When is a solar-ready Meter Combo required?
Solar-ready meter combinations are used in residential applications that utilize solar photovoltaic (PV) power to enhance reliability and protection. Solar-ready Meter Combos comply with the National Electric Code (NEC) for use with a PV power source. Per NEC 705.12, these Meter Combos can handle current up to 120% of the bus ampacity, using standard back-fed circuit breakers.
How do I know if a Meter Combo is plug-on neutral?
ABB Meter Combos that are plug-on neutral, will begin with the “P” prefix at the beginning of the product code. For example, PAMS820TRLNCS, found in the ABB buylog for residential solutions, is one example of a plug-on neutral Meter Combo product code.